Preparations containing gamma aminobutyric acid. Gamma-aminobutyric acid - instructions for use

Included in medications

ATH:

N.03.A.G.03 Gamma aminobutyric acid

Pharmacodynamics:Stimulates metabolism in the brain, being the main inhibitory mediator of the central nervous system. Improves blood supply and energy processes in brain cells. Increases the oxidative activity of neurons. Improves the uptake of glucose by neurons and the utilization of toxic metabolic products. Interacts with GABA-ergic receptors of two types - A and B. Promotes the restoration of speech and motor functions in patients who have had a violation of cerebral circulation. It has a moderate central hypotensive effect, which, however, does not affect cerebral hemoperfusion. Reduces symptoms caused by hypertension, such as dizziness, insomnia and headache. In diabetic patients, it reduces blood glucose levels. Pharmacokinetics:Absorption is fast. Low toxicity to humans. The maximum concentration of the drug in plasma is observed after 60 minutes, then rapidly decreases. It is eliminated from plasma within 24 hours, after this time it is not detected in blood plasma. Elimination mainly by the kidneys unchanged. In animal experiments, gamma-aminobutyric acid did not have the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier. Indications: Gamma-aminobutyric acid is used mainly in the treatment of senile and elderly patients - in rehabilitation after suffering a cerebrovascular accident.

Postponed brain injuries - to increase the motor and mental activity of patients.

In children with mental retardation with reduced mental activity.

With the consequences of alcoholism - alcoholic encephalopathy, polyneuritis, dementia.

Endogenous depression with a predominance of astheno-hypochondriac phenomena and difficulty in mental activity.

V.F70-F79.F79 Mental retardation, unspecified

VI.G60-G64.G62.1 Alcoholic polyneuropathy

VI.G80-G83.G80 Cerebral palsy

XIX.S00-S09.S06 Intracranial injury

XIX.T66-T78.T75.3 Motion sickness

XIX.T90-T98.T90.5 Consequences of intracranial injury

V.F00-F09.F03 Dementia, unspecified

XVIII.R50-R69.R51 Headache

IX.I60-I69.I69 Consequences of cerebrovascular diseases

IX.I60-I69.I67.2 Cerebral atherosclerosis

IX.I10-I15.I15 Secondary hypertension

IX.I10-I15.I10 Essential [primary] hypertension

VIII.H80-H83.H81.9 Vestibular function disorder, unspecified

VI.G40-G47.G45 Transient transient cerebral ischemic attacks [attacks] and related syndromes

V.F50-F59.F51.1 Drowsiness [hypersomnia] of non-organic etiology

V.F30-F39.F34.1 Dysthymia

V.F30-F39.F32 depressive episode

V.F10-F19.F13 Mental and behavioral disorders caused by the use of sedatives or hypnotics

V.F00-F09.F07.2 Postconcussion syndrome

VI.G90-G99.G93.4 Encephalopathy, unspecified

Contraindications:Hypersensitivity, children under 1 year of age, acute renal failure, pregnancy (I trimester) and lactation. Carefully: No data. Pregnancy and lactation:The drug is contraindicated in the first trimester of pregnancy and lactation. Application in the II and III trimesters of pregnancy is possible according to the prescription of the attending physician. Dosage and administration:The drug is taken orally before meals for 0.25 g. Depending on the nature of the nosology, adults are prescribed 0.5-1.25 (2-5 tablets) 3 times a day. The maximum daily dose is 4 g, the maximum single dose is 1.5 g.

Use in children

Depending on age, children are prescribed 0.5-3 g per day in equal portions. The course of treatment is from 2 weeks to 6 months, depending on the severity of the disease and the tolerability of the drug.

Side effects:Gamma-aminobutyric acid is very low toxicity. It is well tolerated by patients of all ages. Sometimes digestive disorders, insomnia, feeling of heat, fluctuations in blood pressure are possible, which, however, is observed only in the first days of treatment. It is necessary to reduce the dose, after which these phenomena usually disappear quickly. Overdose: Symptoms: increased severity of side effects.

Treatment: gastric lavage, activated charcoal, symptomatic therapy.

Interaction: Enhances the action of benzodiazepines, many hypnotics and antiepileptic drugs. Special instructions:During the period of treatment, it is necessary to be careful when driving vehicles and refrain from engaging in potentially hazardous activities that require an increased concentration of attention and speed of psychomotor reactions. Instructions

Gamma-aminobutyric acid as a drug is considered the first nootropic drug in history. The compound is biogenic and is formed in the body, it is considered the most important inhibitory neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid is found in the central nervous system and is involved in the processes of metabolism and neurotransmission of the central nervous system.

The composition of the drug includes directly the acid itself, additional components can be mannitol, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide.

Available in the form of white tablets with a yellow or gray tint. The contour blisters contain 6 or 12 tablets. Also sold in polymer jars of 30, 50 or 100 tablets.

Pharmacological group

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is a nootropic drug according to the pharmacological classification. According to the nosological classification (ICD-10), GABA refers to drugs used for:

• post-concussion syndrome;
• behavioral and mental disorders caused by long-term treatment with sedatives;
• depressions;
• drowsiness;
• transient transient cerebral ischemic attacks;
• alcoholic polyneuropathy;
• children's cerebral palsy;
• unspecified encephalopathy;
• secondary hypertension;
• sea ​​sickness;
• intracranial injury;
• intellectual-mnestic disorders;
• vestibular dysfunction.

pharmachologic effect

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is an amine of a biogenic nature, which takes part in the processes of energy metabolism and brain neuromedication.

Acid is the main mediator that takes part in inhibitory reactions, connecting with special receptor structures. Under the action of GABA, the metabolic process in the brain is normalized - the processes of energy exchange are activated, the absorption of sugars improves.

The drug improves the supply of tissues with blood and oxygen, promotes the utilization and elimination of toxic metabolic products, and stabilizes the dynamics of nerve conduction.

When taking GABA, the thought process and memory are improved. The drug is a mild psychostimulant that restores speech and motor activity, impaired as a result of poor cerebral blood supply.

Reduces and stabilizes blood pressure in hypertension, relieves hypertensive symptoms - sleep disturbance, headaches and dizziness.

The use of gamma-aminobutyric acid leads to a slight decrease in heart rate, and in diabetics it affects the glycemic level, reducing it. In healthy patients with normal blood glucose concentrations, it has the opposite effect due to glycogenolysis.

In the natural environment, gamma-aminobutyric acid is found in tomatoes and other red berries.

Indications for use

Use in adults

For adults, gamma-amino acid is prescribed for rehabilitation after a violation of the blood supply to the brain, with post-traumatic syndromes. It is indicated for atherosclerosis of the cerebral arteries with foci of softening of the brain tissues, in violation of the state of the vessels of the brain, in particular, in arterial hypertension, accompanied by dizziness and migraines.

Assign gamma-aminobutyric acid in the chronic form of vascular cerebral dysfunction, accompanied by problems with remembering information, speech disorders, concentration, migraines and dizziness. With alcoholic encephalopathy and polyneuritis, symptomatic motion sickness complex.

Use in children

For treatment in childhood, GABA is prescribed for cerebral palsy, as well as for rehabilitation after traumatic brain and birth injuries of the skull. Application is shown for slow mental development, accompanied by low mental and physical activity, as well as for symptomatic motion sickness complex.

Contraindications and adverse reactions

A contraindication to the appointment of gamma-aminobutyric acid is only an individual intolerance to the drug and a tendency to allergies.

It is also contraindicated in early pregnancy, under the age of one year and in acute renal failure.

Adverse reactions

Often, the use of gamma-aminobutyric acid is not accompanied by any adverse reactions, and patients tolerate therapy with GABA well.

In rare cases, there were dyspeptic disorders, a feeling of hot flashes to the face and neck. Among the adverse reactions, in rare cases, sleep disturbances and jumps in blood pressure with arrhythmia were observed, especially on the first day of taking gamma-aminobutyric acid preparations. To eliminate adverse reactions, it is enough to reduce the dosage of the intake.

Gamma-amino acid does not cause harm to the body, does not cause dependence and drug withdrawal syndrome.

Instructions for use

The drug is taken before meals. Dosages are set by the attending physician, depending on the pathology and type of therapy. The initial dosage is usually small, taken twice a day. On the third day of administration, the dosage may be increased.

Daily therapeutic doses for adults usually do not exceed two grams.

Children under three years old are prescribed one gram, up to six years old - 1.5 grams each, over seven years old - two grams per day. The daily dosage should be divided into several doses, the frequency of which will be determined by the attending physician.

The duration of treatment is determined by the characteristics and nature of the disease, it can last from two weeks to four months. If necessary, a second course is carried out six months after the end of the previous course of treatment.

For the treatment of motion sickness, the drug is taken twice a day for four days. For the prevention of motion sickness before the upcoming trip, take twice a day three days before the trip, as well as directly on the day of the trip.

Remember that self-administration of nootropic drugs without consulting a doctor can lead to serious consequences and deterioration in health.

Forms of the drug

Also known is nicotinoyl gamma-aminobutyric acid, which is used to improve cerebral circulation. Its action is similar to that of pure GABA, but the drug itself is also contraindicated in any kidney disease.

Adverse reactions include irritability, allergic skin reactions, tremors and agitation.

It is also used for ophthalmic diseases, as well as during the recovery period after ischemic stroke. Other indications are consistent with indications for the use of GABA.

drug interaction

The drug is able to enhance the effect of benzodiazepine drugs, as well as many anticonvulsant and hypnotic drugs.

Analogues and synonyms

Synonyms of the drug are Gammalon, GABA, Ganevrin, Alogamma, Encephalon, Gaballon, Myelogen, Myelomad, Gamarex.

Analogs in action are Noofen, Ceraxon, Piracetam, Phezam, Vincamine, Cordiamin.

It is well known that proteins are the most important component of our food. Although carbohydrates are essential for providing the body with energy, they can be obtained from both fats and amino acids. Fat is not a problem either. But proteins - both muscle and connective tissue proteins, and, most importantly, enzymes - are obtained only from amino acids. Of these, 14 can be synthesized in the body, and 8, like vitamins, must be ingested from food. If, during hunger, the body, having depleted its reserves of fat and carbohydrates, takes on proteins to maintain energy processes, it’s a disaster. In children, there is a lag in physical and mental development, in adults - hungry edema, a decrease in temperature and a weakening of all types of life.

A person needs only 120 g of proteins per day, but they are not enough in plant foods, and plant proteins are poorly digested. In my opinion, meat, fish and dairy products should be included in the diet. If the food lacks individual amino acids (even if not among the essential ones), then they can be taken in the form of drugs, such as glutamic acid, histidine. Methionine is especially often used, which is absolutely necessary for dystrophic processes in the liver and heart, and glycine as a sedative. (But we'll talk about it later.)

Gamma aminobutyric acid

For a long time it remained unclear how the decrease in overall brain activity is ensured - for example, during sleep. Scientists guessed that there must be a substance, perhaps a transmitter of nerve impulses - a mediator that would provide a decrease in the activity of the nervous system not in individual cells and not even in nerve nuclei, but in general in the brain. And such a universal inhibitory mediator was discovered. It turned out to be gamma-aminobutyric acid, which in the future we will call abbreviated - GABA.

For the first time, GABA in the brain was discovered by Y. Roberts and colleagues (and independently by Jörg Avapara) in 1950. Since the butyric acid molecule has a chain of three carbon atoms (and the fourth in the COO group), then according to the systematic nomenclature, the acid should be called aminobutanoic, but no one calls acetic acid ethanoic acid (Fig. 1).

The building blocks of proteins are alpha-amino acids: those in which the amino group is attached to a carbon atom located next to the carboxy group. And what can gamma-amino acid be useful for?

It is known that when the skin (as well as any other sense organs) is irritated, electric potentials arise in the corresponding parts of the cerebral cortex, called primary responses. In 1963, the English scientist K. Krnevich brought to one of the neurons reproducing primary responses a pipette filled with a very weak solution of GABA. For the first time, he was able to establish that the amino acid flowing from the pipette is able to completely suppress the occurrence of impulses in sensitive cells of the cerebral cortex. Japanese researchers made it even simpler: a light electrode was brought to the surface of the brain, and a filter paper moistened with a GABA solution was placed “on top” of it. The advantage of this experiment was not only in simplicity, but also in the fact that the amplitude of the recorded potentials, formed not by one, but by several neurons at once, approximately reflects the strength of the impact. The concentration of the substance in this case, of course, required a large one, but the effect turned out to be the same - the potentials were suppressed. Later, similar experiments were reproduced by the author of this article (Fig. 2).

Further, it was found that GABA can inhibit not only evoked, but also spontaneously arising potentials, both in the cortex and in other parts of the brain. At the same time, GABA is synthesized and released precisely in those nuclei of the brain that are responsible for its inhibition. It is believed that GABA provides the transmission of inhibitory impulses in approximately 30-50% of nerve contacts. How does she do it?

Contacts of nerve fibers with cells - synapses that function with the participation of GABA, do not fundamentally differ from others. GABA is synthesized in the cytoplasm of a neuron and, upon the arrival of an impulse, is released into the synaptic cleft between the nerve endings and the adjacent portion of the neuron envelope (Fig. 3). Specialized receptor proteins (from Latin recipe - take) interacting with GABA have also been found. As a result of this interaction, channels open in the membrane of the receiving neuron, allowing negatively charged chloride ions to enter the cell, which are present in excess in the interstitial fluid. The penetration of chlorine causes a state of hyperpolarization in the cell, that is, inhibition (recall that the transfer of excitation occurs due to the opposite process: depolarization of the neuron membrane). It has now been established that GABA receptors are also found in blood vessels, especially in the brain.

The scientists drew up maps showing exactly where GABA acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter and how important it is at each site. Although the concentration of this acid in different parts of the brain is different, it can be found almost everywhere. We calculated the approximate total number of its molecules - and were surprised. It turned out that the brain contains GABA in much larger amounts than required for the implementation of mediator functions. Why, you ask, so many?

It was natural to assume that GABA performs some other functions in the brain. Indeed, it turned out to be an obligatory participant in many metabolic processes. It affects the transport and utilization of glucose, cell respiration, the formation of energy reserves in them, increases the resistance of cells and the brain as a whole to oxygen starvation, and activates protein synthesis. The variety of physiological and biochemical functions performed by GABA, as well as data on the violation of its formation in some psychopathological and neurological disorders - all this spoke of its great importance. Pharmacologists could not pass by such an amazing molecule.

In search of new drugs, scientists remembered that plants already millions of years ago learned to synthesize compounds that successfully block the effects of neurotransmitters. In the case of GABA, these are the alkaloids picrotoxin (contained in the seeds of tree lianas of the genus Anamirta, which grow in the countries of tropical Asia - Indonesia, India, New Guinea, the Moluccas, as well as in various types of astragalus) and bicuculin (isolated from the leaves of Dicentre cucullaria of the fume family ). They tried to use both of these substances to activate the work of the brain, but they turned out to be too dangerous, since even in negligible doses they caused severe convulsions. (The natives used to prepare poison from anamyrtha for "chemical" fishing and for arrows.) Now, to excite the respiratory center, the synthetic drug bimegrid is used, which also blocks the effects of GABA, but more selectively and not so actively.

The first drug to activate GABA receptors was pure GABA. Her drug, called "gammalon", was developed in Japan, and later appeared exactly the same domestic one, called "aminalon". Despite the fact that both drugs have been used for a long time, their therapeutic effects remain unclear. The fact is that due to the low solubility in fats, GABA almost does not enter the brain tissue from the blood - however, its central effects are not in doubt and are well studied. The explanation of the valuable properties of gammalon-aminalon by the ability of GABA to dilate blood vessels seems unsatisfactory.

Pharmacologists know that in order to increase the permeability of substances to the brain through the blood-brain barrier that separates blood (in fact, an aqueous solution) from lipid-saturated brain cells, they need to “attach” a radical that is highly soluble in fats. Leningrad pharmacologists, including my friend Professor I.P. Lapin, proposed introducing a phenyl radical into the GABA molecule, which turned it into the drug phenibut, which easily overcomes the barrier - and has a pronounced inhibitory effect (Fig. 1)! Today, phenibut is a common daytime tranquilizer, and, most importantly, it does not interfere with driving.

Over time, it was possible to establish that in the brain tissues GABA loses its amino group, which is replaced by hydroxyl. This substance is called gamma-hydroxybutyric acid. If it is injected directly into the bloodstream, it not only penetrates the blood-brain barrier, but also has such a strong inhibitory effect on the brain that its sodium salt, sodium oxybutyrate, can be used as a general anesthesia agent (more precisely, to turn off consciousness) during operations. Think about it: a person produces a substance in his brain that can cause a state of anesthesia! How can you not remember about operations under hypnosis?

The second way to improve the penetration of the drug molecule into the brain tissue is to attach some substance of natural origin to it, such as a vitamin. In particular, the drug picamilon was obtained by combining nicotinic acid, also known as PP, with GABA. As expected, picamilon dilates the vessels of the brain and has a calming effect on anxiety, fear, increased irritability, and also increases resistance to physical and mental stress.

The creation of GABA-like drugs and the study of their effects made it possible to speak about the existence of two main functions of GABA - mediator and metabolic. The mediator function is associated with the participation of GABA in the regulation of the level of wakefulness, motor activity, vascular tone, maintaining a high seizure threshold and, to some extent, improving memory and thinking. Metabolic function is to provide the brain with energy, resistance to oxygen starvation and other harmful effects.

Nootropics

In 1963, the Belgian company UCB obtained a compound that was a ring-folded gamma-aminobutyric acid with some additional radicals. When studying this compound, Professor K. Giurgi and his colleagues found that it actively improves memory and facilitates the learning process, that is, it affects the higher intellectual functions of the brain. Since the Greek word for thought and reason is noos, and affinity is tropos, the new drug was named nootropil. And in 1972, the term “nootropics” appeared.

According to the definition of WHO experts, nootropic drugs activate the ability to learn, improve memory and mental activity, and also increase the resistance of the brain to aggressive influences.

In Russia, nootropil is produced under the name "piracetam", and around the world under more than 30 names - another testament to its extraordinary popularity. Indications for its use are memory impairment, decreased concentration, mood changes, behavioral and thinking disorders in vascular diseases, injuries and sclerosis of the brain, as well as mental disorders in chronic alcoholism. The drug is well tolerated, but in some people it causes unexpected reactions: arousal or, conversely, drowsiness, sometimes dizziness, and sometimes increased sexuality.

Today, the group of nootropics does not have rigidly defined boundaries. In addition to the already mentioned aminalon, phenibut and picamilon, it also includes deonol (nooklerin), idebenone, meclofenoxate, nicotinoyl-GABA and pantogam. All these drugs are metabolic and to some extent antioxidant. Conventionally, nootropics include drugs that have a pronounced ability to cause vasodilation of the brain: vinpocetine (cavinton), complamin, trental, cinnarizine, etc. Caffeine and some vitamins can also be considered nootropic: B6, B15, BC; and B12.

If we consider the nootropic effect as such, then we can indicate that it is based on three characteristic properties (which are expressed to different degrees in different drugs): firstly, they restore the balance between excitatory and inhibitory processes in the brain, and secondly, they activate metabolism and energy processes in nerve cells, thirdly, increase the endurance of neurons during oxygen starvation and membrane toxic effects.

In recent years, the idea of ​​nootropics has changed somewhat. It is assumed that the next generation of drugs in this group will not only activate the higher integrative functions of the brain, but also restore impaired memory and thought processes, reduce the deficits that occur with various types of damage to the nervous system and increase the body's resistance. These funds will transform the life of mankind, relieving it of the consequences of brain diseases and ensuring active old age. And perhaps they will allow to treat congenital or acquired dementia.

GABA receptors have a very interesting feature: they are surrounded by other receptors that also regulate the process of inhibition, both through GABA receptors and independently. Among these "companions" receptors for barbiturates, alcohol and, most importantly, benzodiazepines are today one of the most common and valuable drugs with tranquilizer, muscle relaxant, ataractic, anticonvulsant and hypnotic effects. They will have to devote a separate section.

Benzodiazepines are the main tranquilizers

The word "bedlam" in the sense of "complete disorder" comes from the name of the largest psychiatric hospital of the XIV century in London. There really was something completely disorderly going on: patients with various forms of psychosis were kept in common rooms. Some of them behaved so violently that they became dangerous to others. Then they were put in a special chair, like an electric chair, to which they tied not only their arms and legs, but also the head of the unfortunate. The patient, unsuccessfully trying to escape from the fetters, gradually got tired and subsided, calmed down. Such chairs were called tranquilizers (from lat. tranquillo - I calm). That's where this now common term came from.

At present, it is not psychoses that are being treated with tranquilizers, but neuroses - these are drugs rather from the arsenal of neuropathologists than psychiatrists. The most common causes of neurosis - the loss of a sense of security, confidence in the future. There is an opinion that neurosis is “nothing to worry about”, that everyone has neuroses, but this “not terrible” disease is sometimes followed by depression and suicide.

Tranquilizers have replaced the sedatives given to people who find themselves restless from excitement, restlessness or anxiety. They, unfortunately, could not relieve anxiety and fear, but they allowed them to somehow calm down, sit down and relax (hence the name: sedere - in Latin “sit down”). Favorite sedatives were bromine and barbiturates, which cause total inhibition in the brain, which, of course, did not restore health and were far from harmless. In a similar way, only weaker, medicinal herbs act: valerian, peony and passionflower.

In the early 60s, the first benzodiazepine appeared - librium (elenium), which immediately interested doctors of all specialties. Especially attractive were its central muscle relaxant (relaxing skeletal muscles) and anticonvulsant activity. Currently, there are many benzodiazepines. Anti-anxiety tranquilizers include elenium (in the Russian version chlozepid), sibazon (diazepam, relanium, seduxen), nozepam (tazepam) and phenazepam, which have a pronounced anxiolytic (anti-anxiety, from anxius - anxious, fearful) and sedative action. Benzodiazepines without a sedative-hypnotic effect are called daytime tranquilizers. These include mezapam (aka rudator).

All these drugs are well tolerated, but many of them have side effects: headache, drowsiness, impaired potency, decreased reaction rate, the ability to enhance the effect of alcohol, causing pathological intoxication with loss of consciousness. Phenazepam is especially dangerous in this regard, the effect of which can last from one to four days. With prolonged use, addiction occurs, less often addiction, mood deterioration, a person begins to take new drugs from this group ... In a word, it is better to start treating insomnia not with phenazepam, but go a more complicated way - for example, reduce coffee consumption in the afternoon and brew it before bedtime herbal tea: what if a pill is not needed?

Now Russia is buying abroad a relatively new drug gidazepam, the tranquilizing effect of which is combined with an activating effect. It is also effective in the treatment of migraine. Alprozalam is interesting for its antidepressant action. In my opinion, it is these drugs that should be in special demand, but this is not the case. Probably because their names do not appear on colorful posters and are not repeated in commercials.

Glycine as a mild tranquilizer

The second non-essential inhibitory amino acid, glycine, has had a modest but well-deserved success, even though it is only an aminoacetic acid. There is not much of it in the brain tissue, but this small amount is absolutely necessary. Being an inhibitory neurotransmitter, glycine prevents the propagation of an impulse that came through the sensitive posterior roots of the spinal cord to its other half and other segments. Natural antagonists of glycine, unsurpassed in activity, that bind to its receptors, are tetanus toxin and strychnine alkaloid contained in Nux vomica emetic nuts, they are also the fruits of St. Ignacy. (Strychnine is a well-known poison, and emetic nuts are one of the most favorite remedies among homeopaths.) If the action of glycine is blocked, then the slightest irritation causes a tonic contraction of the muscles of the whole body, which assumes the opisthotonus posture typical of strychnine poisoning or tetanus: arching, relying on neck and heels. In modern scientific medicine, strychnine is rarely used. But glycine is gaining more and more popularity

The clinic confirmed that it (with sublingual use) not only enhances the effect of anticonvulsants, but also accelerates falling asleep, has antioxidant, anti-stress, tranquilizing and nootropic effects, blocking the pituitary-adrenal system.

According to clinical data, glycine suppresses irritability and makes behavior more reasonable. At the same time, it has similarities with tranquilizers only in terms of sedative effect, and in all other respects it is opposite to them. So, it does not have a muscle relaxant effect, weakens the effect of alcohol, does not cause addiction, increases the speed of reactions, enhances mental performance, with increasing doses, its effect decreases. Glycine not only does not interfere with driving, but is recommended for drivers!

Let’s face it, clinics can’t always be trusted. But there are also very authoritative experimental data in favor of the fact that in the model of brain hypoxia with the onset of a heart attack, glycine prevents it more effectively than piracetam. At the same time, the turnover of GABA increases, the content of the main mediators of the brain increases or normalizes in many of its departments, especially in the focus of ischemia. The Journal of Human Physiology (2001) reports that after three weeks of taking glycine twice a day, an increase in the speed of thought processes is recorded.

Today, indications for the use of glycine are stressful conditions, psycho-emotional stress, irritability, emotional lability, neuroses, vegetovascular dystonia, the consequences of a traumatic brain injury, encephalopathy, including alcohol, sleep disorders ... A real miracle is the effect of the usual amino acid that we consume with food and produced in our own body. Perhaps it is precisely such drugs that will open the way for people to health and longevity.

"Chemistry and Life - XXI century"

A person is able to control his own body, think and make decisions. All this is the merit of the central nervous system. All tissues and organs are connected with it. Even those body functions that do not require conscious control depend on the adequate functioning of the central nervous system. The brain sends signals and, thanks to this, we breathe, our heart beats, we are able to see the world around us. Gamma-aminobutyric acid plays an important role in the functioning of the central nervous system. It is about her that will be discussed.

What happens when there is a malfunction in the brain? The consequences can be unpredictable and rather sad: from various physical ailments to loss of personality. Sometimes, at the first sign of a nervous breakdown or to treat more serious conditions, doctors prescribe a drug containing GABA. Another name for the acid is GABA. Let's find out what this substance is and why it is so significant.

An amino acid is a biologically active chemical involved in brain metabolism. It is an inhibitory neurotransmitter, that is, an intermediary between the gray matter and the cells of the body. The formation of GABA occurs from glutamic acid with the participation of the enzyme (glutamate decarboxylase).

Under the influence of gamma aminobutyric acid occurs:

1. activation of energy processes;
2. improvement of blood circulation;
3. utilization of glucose;
4. elimination of toxins;
5. stabilization of blood pressure;
6. prevention of muscle cramps;
7. saturation of tissues with oxygen;
8. normalization of nervous processes;
9. calming the nervous system.

The deficiency of this substance can be compensated with the help of the gaba supplement. However, you should first consult with your doctor. For excess in the body leads to a restless state, causes shortness of breath and trembling in the limbs. So in what situations does a person need medicine?

Indications for the use of a nootropic agent

Typically, GABA is taken in combination with other drugs to relieve symptoms in such diseases:

• epilepsy;
• arterial hypertension;
• atherosclerosis;
• endogenous depression;
• cerebrovascular insufficiency;
• stroke;
• cerebral palsy.

The use of food supplements is not limited to:

1. With the help of gamma aminobutyric acid, they fight the consequences of traumatic brain injuries;
2. It helps reduce the manifestations of alcoholic encephalopathy;
3. This is an indispensable assistant for the symptom of motion sickness;
4. Indications for use are frequent headaches and sudden dizziness;
5. Effective in reducing concentration;
6. Allows you to adjust the memorization mechanism;
7. Recommended by doctors in case of problems with speech;
8. It is appropriate to take derivatives of gamma-aminobutyric acid for children who are lagging behind in development, as well as for babies with severe dementia;
9. In addition, this is a real find for people suffering from insomnia. After all, such drugs have a relaxing effect;
10. And gamk comes to the rescue with violations of sexual function, as it relaxes the body as a whole.

weight loss

An important point, dietary supplements with GABA help to lose weight. This is due to the fact that one of the properties of GABA is the acceleration of muscle mass gain. In an effort to lose weight, many resort to sports. The primary task is to get rid of adipose tissue.

Pumped up muscles increase, and fat disappears due to this. Obesity is also a problem for people who do not sleep well. Lack of sleep - extra centimeters at the waist. Metabolism slows down, the body is in a state of stress, which provokes a feeling of hunger. No one promises fast weight loss thanks to a dietary supplement. But, at least, getting enough sleep, you will stop gaining kilograms.

How to avoid deficiency of "brake" substance?

A person suffering from a lack of GABA cannot fully work during the day and relax at night. The thing is that an overexcited nervous system does not have the opportunity to return to normal. Therefore, there is a state of eternal anxiety, depression, aggression. It is difficult to properly organize your own schedule. You do not have time to cope with the planned and annoyed even more. And at night, when you need to plunge into a sound restorative sleep, you suffer from insomnia and scroll through the unpleasant moments lived in your head. You become like a wound up doll that is unable to stop on its own. But the sense of chaotic walking is also zero.

Is there a way to avoid such a fate? There are several ways to increase the level of gab:

1. Introducing certain foods into the diet;
2. Relaxing physical exercises (for example, yoga);
3. The use of special nutritional supplements.

When compiling a diet, include oranges, kiwi, bananas in it. Eat oatmeal and whole grain bread. Don't forget by-products. Benefits will bring broccoli, lentils, spinach. Sometimes nuts should appear on the menu. It is better to drink herbal decoctions and green tea. It is appropriate to add lemon balm to the drink.

However, it is not always possible to achieve the desired result with the help of proper nutrition. And carving out an hour and a half to relieve stress by physical education is problematic. In addition, a set of special exercises must be done correctly, under the supervision of an instructor. And this is additional expenses and, again, precious time.

Bioactive supplements that contain gamma-aminobutyric acid come to the rescue. To date, buying dietary supplements is not a problem. There are analogues from different manufacturers. You will be able to choose a product with an acceptable combination of price and quality for you. Let's study the question of the right choice in more detail.

Acquisition of GABA

You can purchase gaba supplements from a pharmacy or order from the iHerb online store. To know what to look for, take a look at the list of trade names:

• GABA or GABA;
• Nicotinyl gamma;
• Aminalon;
• Gammalon;
• Ganevrin;
• Gaballon;
• Apogamma;
• Encephalon;
• Gammar;
• Gammaneuron;
• Myelomad.

This is an incomplete list. On sale you have a large number of nootropics, in which the active ingredient is gamma-aminobutyric acid.

Here are some analogues:

1. Nicotinyl gamma. Odorless white crystalline powder. Quickly absorbed, practically non-toxic. In case of circulatory disorders in the brain, doctors prescribe nicotinoyl gamma as the main drug for treatment;
2. Aminalon. Available in tablets. It is prescribed to influence the central nervous system in order to eliminate the manifestations of overexcitation. Well tolerated by patients. Aminalon is purchased by prescription;
3. Gammalon. Release form - tablets. Nootropic pharmacological effects. Normalizes the dynamics of nervous processes. Accepted by medical prescription.

It is convenient to buy dietary supplements in online stores. You can even order gaba delivery. Couriers deliver the goods to the address you specified.

Purchase option on iHerb

Attention should be paid to iherb. There is a wide range of nutritional supplements. You can choose the option that suits both the price and the composition. Consider some suggestions:

1. Gaba solgar. Plant-based food supplement. One capsule of Solgar contains 500 mg of the active substance. The package contains 100 capsules. Relaxes and soothes;
2. Now Foods, GABA. Capsules of 100 pieces in one package. The price varies depending on the site (about 1000 rubles). Used to relieve nervous tension;
3. Gaba plus. A drug from Twinlab. This is a vitamin and mineral complex. The price for 100 capsules is 1350 rubles. Recommended for maintaining physical fitness, suitable for people leading an active lifestyle;
4. gamma-aminobutyric acid. Manufacturer NORTHEAST PHARMACEUTICAL GROUP. Available in powder. It is important to accurately observe the dosage regimen in grams.

Deciding whether you need nicotinoyl gamma, solgar or gaba plus is difficult to make on your own. A reasonable decision is to consult a doctor and undergo the necessary examinations. Only a competent approach will allow you to get the expected therapeutic effect.

Instructions for use

The drug is taken orally. Preferably before meals. Before starting the course, gamma-aminobutyric acid instructions are carefully studied. It indicates the required dosage, as well as possible side effects. Sometimes the body reacts to the active substance specifically. Side effects such as vomiting and nausea can be expected. In some cases, there is a disorder of the digestive system. Sometimes there are pressure surges. Sometimes a person feels hot. All this passes with time.

Contraindications for use:

1. individual intolerance;
2. first trimester of pregnancy;
3. acute renal failure.

Use for children is allowed after a year. It is possible to give any medicine or nutritional supplement to a child only after consultation with a specialist.

It is worth considering one more thing. Gaba receptors are sensitive to alcohol. It is strictly forbidden to combine bioactive additives and alcohol. Since alcoholic beverages act on the body in a similar way to GABA, their simultaneous use leads to an excessive inhibitory response. Perhaps a state of depression and indifference to the outside world. Characterized by depression, slowness of movement, buzzing in the ears.

Formula: C4H9NO2, chemical name: 4-Aminobutanoic acid.
Pharmacological group: neurotropic drugs / nootropics.
Pharmachologic effect: nootropic, stimulating metabolism in the central nervous system.

Pharmacological properties

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is one of the main mediators that take part in central inhibition. Gamma-aminobutyric acid activates energy processes, improves blood supply to the brain, increases the respiratory activity of tissues, improves the removal of toxic products and the utilization of glucose. Gamma-aminobutyric acid reacts with GABAergic (types A and B) receptors. Gamma-aminobutyric acid improves the dynamics of nervous processes in the brain, improves memory, increases the productivity of thinking, has a moderate antihypoxic, psychostimulant, anticonvulsant effect. Gamma-aminobutyric acid after cerebrovascular accident helps in restoring speech and motor functions. Gamma-aminobutyric acid has a moderately pronounced hypotensive property, reduces initially elevated blood pressure and the severity of symptoms that are caused by hypertension (insomnia, dizziness), slightly slows down the heart rate. In patients with diabetes, it reduces the content of glucose in the blood, with a normal level of glucose in the blood, gamma-aminobutyric acid often causes hyperglycemia, which is caused by glycogenolysis. The maximum concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid in plasma is reached 1 hour after ingestion, then the content of the drug decreases rapidly and after a day gamma-aminobutyric acid is not detected in the blood plasma. Low toxicity. Gamma-aminobutyric acid does not penetrate well through the blood-brain barrier (according to experimental data).

Indications

Pathology of cerebral vessels (hypertension, atherosclerosis, and others), dyscirculatory encephalopathy and cerebrovascular insufficiency, impaired attention, memory, speech, headache, dizziness, consequences of traumatic brain injury and stroke, alcoholic polyneuritis, alcoholic encephalopathy, dementia, mental retardation in children, cerebral palsy, a symptom complex of motion sickness (air and sea sickness), endogenous depression with difficulty in mental activity and a predominance of asthenohypochondriacal phenomena.

Method of application of gamma-aminobutyric acid and dose

Gamma-aminobutyric acid is taken orally, before meals. Adults - 1.5 - 3.75 g per day, children 3 years old - 0.5 - 2 g per day, 4 - 6 years old - 2 - 3 g per day, over 7 years old - 3 g per day. The daily dose must be divided into 3 doses; the course of treatment is from 2 - 3 to 8 - 16 weeks. With motion sickness syndrome: children - 0.25 g, adults - 0.5 g for 3 days 3 times a day; for the prevention of motion sickness - in the same doses for 3 days that precede a possible situation of motion sickness.
With caution, use gamma-aminobutyric acid to drivers of vehicles during work, as well as to people whose professions are associated with the speed of psychomotor reactions and increased concentration of attention.

Contraindications for use

Hypersensitivity, acute renal failure, age up to 3 years, breastfeeding period, pregnancy (1 trimester).

Application restrictions

No data.

Use during pregnancy and lactation

The use of gamma-aminobutyric acid is contraindicated in the 1st trimester of pregnancy. In the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy, the use of the drug is possible only according to indications and under the supervision of the attending physician. At the time of taking gamma-aminobutyric acid, it is necessary to stop breastfeeding.

Side effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid

Insomnia, nausea, fluctuations in blood pressure (during the first days of admission), vomiting, hyperthermia, dyspepsia, a feeling of heat.
Interaction of gamma-aminobutyric acid with other substances
Gamma-aminobutyric acid enhances the effects of drugs that improve the functions of the central nervous system. Benzodiazepines enhance the action of gamma-aminobutyric acid.