neuroscience
Anxiolytic
Definition
An anxiolytic is any compound that reduces anxiety. Unlike traditional benzodiazepine anxiolytics that act on GABA receptors with sedation and dependence risks, peptide anxiolytics such as Selank operate through distinct mechanisms including modulation of enkephalin metabolism and BDNF expression. Selank has demonstrated anxiolytic effects comparable to benzodiazepines in preclinical models without the associated sedation or withdrawal effects.