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Picamilon
Picamilon is a synthetic drug formed by combining niacin with gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).1 In Russia, its prescribed uses include treating anxiety.1 Developed in the Soviet Union in 1969,2 it attracts interest for its nootropic properties but has limited recreational popularity. It is also classified as habit-forming.
Dosage & Duration
Dosage
Doses are population estimates that vary widely between individuals.
Duration
Subjective Effects
Pharmacology
Pharmacodynamics
Picamilon itself showed no activity against 50 biological targets, including GABA receptors, in a 2023 assay study. Its proposed mechanism involves hydrolysis products that could activate GABA receptors and promote vasodilation. Increased cerebral blood flow was observed in cats.3
Pharmacokinetics
Picamilon crosses the blood-brain barrier in cats, mice, and rats. It is believed to undergo hydrolysis into two metabolites.1 Following single oral doses, plasma concentrations are generally 500–3000 μg/L during the first few hours. It exhibits linear pharmacokinetics, with a half-life of 1–2 hours. Urinary excretion of unchanged picamilon and its two metabolites accounts for up to 79% of a single dose.
Interactions
An unlisted combination is an unknown one, not a safe one. Check a dedicated combination chart before mixing.
Tolerance
Harm Potential
Addiction & Dependence
Psychological
ModeratePicamilon is considered habit-forming, but dependence, withdrawal, and abuse severity are not described.
History & Culture
Picamilon was developed in the Soviet Union in 19692 and subsequently studied in Russia and Japan.2 In Russia, it was sold as a prescription drug,4 with the rights held by the pharmaceutical company NPK ECHO.…
Legality
By Country
RussiaPrescription onlyReferences
Citations
Article Status
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