Meprobamate is an anxiolytic drug used for the short-term management of anxiety symptoms. A carbamate with hypnotic, sedative, and some muscle relaxant properties, although in therapeutic doses reduction of anxiety rather than a direct effect may be responsible for muscle relaxation. It can be found under the brand name Equagesic. Meprobamate has been reported to have anticonvulsant actions against petit mal seizures, but not against grand mal seizures (which may be exacerbated). It is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, and also for the short-term management of insomnia but has largely been superseded by the benzodiazepines. Meprobamate's mechanism of action is not fully understood; in animal studies, meprobamate is reported to act at multiple sites in the central nervous system, such as the thalamus and limbic system. It binds to the GABAA receptors, leading to inhibitory effects on the neurons transmitting signals in the reticular formation and spinal cord. Consequently, effects such as sedation and altered perception of pain are observed. Meprobamate targets the GABA(A) alpha-1 to alpha-6 subunits specifically. Some side effects of using meprobamate may include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, and headache.

Meprobamate Pathway References