Пикамилон

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Пикамилон

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Medically reviewed

Marina Burgos

Last updated on 10/01/2026

This page provides general, reference-level information compiled from official medical sources. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For decisions about your health, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

Overview of Пикамилон

What is Пикамилон? (Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid)

Property Description
Active Ingredient Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid
Pharmacological Class Nootropic, Cerebrovasodilator
Forms Tablets, Solution for injection
Origin Synthetic derivative
Primary Action Supports cerebral blood flow and metabolism

The Identity and Classification of Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid

Пикамилон (Pikamilon) is the common designation for the pharmaceutical product containing the active ingredient Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid. Developed in the former Soviet Union, this compound is unique because it is a synthetic derivative created by chemically linking Nicotinic Acid (niacin) with Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA). This dual composition is distinct and has been the subject of substantial pharmacological studies, leading to its classification as a nootropic agent and a cerebrovasodilator. The drug is primarily intended to support and enhance the functional capacity of the central nervous system, particularly by optimizing the conditions for neurological performance and assisting with cognitive functional stability.


Compositional Structure and Pharmaceutical Formats

Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid is structured as a single active ingredient product, synthesized specifically to facilitate better access to the brain, overcoming the poor permeability limitations often associated with administering simple GABA. The compound is designed to act as a prodrug, which is believed to break down in the body to release its two constituent components, Nicotinic Acid and GABA. Research concerning the neurobiological effects of Nicotinoyl-GABA has indicated its role in stabilizing cerebral function under various metabolic stresses. This unique mechanism of dual-component delivery is its primary differentiating factor among related substances. Пикамилон is conventionally manufactured in two principal dosage forms: tablets, intended for oral intake, and a sterile solution for injection, used for parenteral administration, offering distinct options for treatment strategy.

What side effects are possible with Пикамилон?

Possible Side Effects and Safety Information

The official safety profile for Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (Пикамилон) is largely determined by the known effects of its two component substances, Nicotinic Acid (Niacin) and Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (GABA). Detailed frequency classifications for specific adverse reactions (e.g., 'common' or 'rare'), such as those found in standard SmPC documents, are not widely published by major Western regulatory authorities.

Documented Adverse Reaction Scope

The known or expected adverse effects generally align with the properties of the breakdown products. Serious adverse reactions are not commonly documented in public safety data, though risks related to component exposure are noted.

Category Officially Documented Safety Consideration
System-Organ Classes Vascular Disorders (e.g., transient blood pressure reduction); Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders (e.g., flushing, pruritus)
Frequency Classification Not Known (Specific frequency data is not publicly available from major regulatory sources)
Serious Adverse Reactions None specifically documented in retrieved public regulatory context
Exposure Patterns The potential for blood pressure effects is typically transient

High-Level Safety Constraints

The official safety statements emphasize particular caution in specific circumstances, based on the known activities of its components:

  • Interactions: Caution is advised regarding concurrent use with antihypertensive medications due to the potential for an additive risk of hypotension, a known effect associated with the GABA component.
  • Special Populations: Due to the lack of sufficient safety data in these groups, particularly regarding the GABA component, use during pregnancy and lactation requires specific regulatory consideration.

This framework ensures that the assessment of risk remains centered on the component-level safety, addressing potential vascular and dermal effects, and providing constraints for co-administration and use in sensitive populations.

Overdose and Emergency Response

Overdose and When to Seek Help

Official regulatory guidelines worldwide prioritize immediate action in the event of any suspected overdose of Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (Пикамилон). Due to the lack of specific, published clinical data on overdose manifestations within major government prescribing information, the focus is on required emergency response and supportive management.


Official Regulatory Stance on Overdose Action

Action Required Regulatory Mandate
Immediate Medical Help Mandated action for suspected overdose or accidental ingestion of excessive amounts.
Poison Control Center Contact a Poison Control Center right away, as officially instructed in labeling.

Documented Manifestations and Treatment

Official prescribing information from major regulatory bodies does not publicly detail a specific symptom cluster or set of clinical signs for an overdose of this compound. Consequently, the management of a suspected overdose is categorized as follows:

  • Manifestations: Specific symptoms are not officially documented in publicly accessible governmental regulatory sources.
  • Antidote: No specific antidote for Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid overdose is documented in official labeling.
  • Treatment: Management is expected to be supportive and symptomatic in a professional medical setting, focusing on maintaining vital functions.

When to Seek Urgent Help: Immediate medical attention is required for any known or suspected ingestion that exceeds the prescribed amount. Do not delay professional help-seeking. The official regulatory profile emphasizes patient safety through rapid medical intervention.

Therapeutic Uses of Пикамилон

The primary role of Пикамилон is to provide symptomatic support across domains, relevant in contexts marked by increased discomfort or tension. It is recognized in relation to its use in managing Migraine Disorders. This support is considered relevant in conditions characterized by symptoms of increased neurological or muscular activity, symptoms related to systemic imbalance, and symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.

Key Therapeutic Domains

This medication may be part of symptomatic management in contexts involving heightened symptoms such as those relating to memory, concentration, and focus, distressing symptoms of anxiety, and specific vascular headaches. This supportive approach contributes to easing the overall symptom load and assists with maintaining functional stability.

Quick Fact

Quick Fact: Supports Management of Symptoms that Interfere with Daily Functioning

Benefits Summary

Applied in clinical settings that involve acute or unstable symptom patterns and is relevant when supportive symptom management is appropriate. Its use supports general well-being during symptomatic phases and contributes to improved comfort, providing supportive relief when symptoms interfere with routine activities.

Eligibility and Restrictions for Use

The eligibility for using Пикамилон (Picamilon) is strictly defined by regulatory contraindications in countries where it is approved as a medicine. It is unapproved by the US FDA and major EU agencies.

Contraindicated Populations (Must Not Use)

The medicine is absolutely prohibited for use in several populations, primarily based on concerns regarding organ function and developmental safety:

  • Acute and Chronic Renal Failure/Insufficiency: Prohibited due to the risk of drug accumulation from compromised kidney excretion.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation (Breastfeeding): Use is contraindicated because safety and effectiveness have not been established in these physiological states.
  • Hypersensitivity: Individuals with known allergic reactions to Nicotinoyl-GABA (the active substance) or any excipient in the formulation.
  • Pediatric Age Restriction: Contraindicated in children under the age of 3 years.

Restricted or Conditional Use

Use is allowed for adults and children aged 3 years and older who do not have any absolute contraindications. However, some official labels recommend caution for patients with pre-existing conditions that could complicate treatment, such as Arterial Hypotension (low blood pressure) or Epilepsy.

What should I know about interactions with other medicines?

Пикамилон Interactions with other medicines and products

When taking Picamilon (also known as N-nicotinoyl-gamma-aminobutyric acid or nicotinoyl-GABA), it is essential to be aware of potential interactions with other medications, supplements, and substances. Picamilon is chemically composed of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and niacin (Vitamin B3), and its interaction profile may relate to the effects of these components.

Significant Drug Interactions

Type of Interacting Agent Potential Effect Recommendation
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants (e.g., sedatives, anxiolytics, alcohol) May enhance the sedative or inhibitory effects on the central nervous system, potentially leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, or slowed breathing. Use with caution. Medical supervision is recommended to adjust doses.
Vasodilators (e.g., certain blood pressure medications, Ginkgo biloba derivatives) May potentiate the blood vessel dilation effects, leading to an increased risk of hypotension (low blood pressure) or excessive flushing, particularly due to the niacin component. Caution advised. Monitor blood pressure closely.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) Supplements Taking Picamilon alongside other niacin-containing supplements may increase the overall dosage of niacin, potentially heightening the risk of side effects like flushing, itching, and gastrointestinal upset. Avoid excessive intake. Review all supplement labels for niacin content with a healthcare professional.

Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies, and dietary supplements currently being taken to properly assess and manage any risk of interaction.

Mechanism of Action

Пикамилон ( N-nicotinoyl-gamma -aminobutyric acid) is a synthetic compound that functions as a prodrug. Upon administration, it readily traverses the blood-brain barrier due to the lipophilicity conferred by the nicotinoyl moiety.

Within the central nervous system, the compound undergoes enzymatic hydrolysis to yield two active metabolites: gamma -aminobutyric acid (GABA) and nicotinic acid (niacin).

The released GABA acts as an agonist at central GABA A receptors. This interaction promotes the opening of the receptor's intrinsic chloride ion channel, resulting in a net influx of Cl^- ions. The resultant hyperpolarization of the postsynaptic neuron membrane increases the neuronal inhibition threshold, modulating central neurotransmission.

Concurrently, the released nicotinic acid acts on vascular smooth muscle cells in cerebral circulation. Nicotinic acid is a vasodilator that mediates the relaxation of cerebral blood vessel walls, consequently increasing cerebral blood flow and oxygen supply to brain tissue. These dual molecular actions modify systemic vascular and central inhibitory signaling pathways.

Dosage and Administration Information

How to Use Пикамилон: Official Administration Guidelines

The use of Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid (Пикамилон) is guided by established prescribing information. The drug is administered through defined parameters regarding its delivery, dosage, and temporal scheduling.

Administration Principles

The medicine is approved for both the Oral route, available as tablets, and the Parenteral route, available as a solution for injection. This distinction in official routes establishes two strategic options: the oral form for routine treatment courses and the injectable solution for more acute conditions or supervised clinical administration.

Standard Dosing and Schedule

The total quantity administered daily must adhere to the established pharmacological range, which is typically between 50 mg and 200 mg. To maintain this quantity consistently, the total daily amount is generally structured as a divided daily dose, which is split and administered multiple times throughout the day.

Procedural Use and Temporal Structure

Treatment with Picamilon follows defined cycles or courses rather than being a continuous, open-ended regimen. This procedural structure means administration is time-bound, adhering to a duration established by official protocol. Initial administration generally begins at the lower end of the established dose range. Due to limited universally published official instructions for specific population adjustments (such as for older adults) or timing relative to food, the detailed procedural use is governed by official labeling and established protocols.

Recent Clinical Evidence

Research evidence / Overview of studies for Пикамилон

Evidence for use in Chronic Cerebral Ischemia and Vascular Cognitive Impairment

Clinical research exploring Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid was studied for Chronic Cerebral Ischemia (CCI) and conditions marked by functional limitations in adults and older adults (typically aged 45 to 69 years). These studies primarily involved Randomized Clinical Studies and Open Cohort Clinical Studies. The research examined assessment of cognitive status (using standardized scales like MoCA), neurological function scores, and patient-reported outcomes. Findings report how symptoms evolved and monitored vascular parameters over intermediate-term periods (60 to 90 days). This evidence contributes to understanding symptom patterns in populations studied for CCI.

Evidence for Symptomatic Support of Anxiety and Autonomic Status

Research has also explored the drug’s application for outcomes related to systemic or functional imbalance, such as symptoms of anxiety and autonomic (vegetative) symptoms. These specific contexts was evaluated in early clinical reports or as secondary objectives in larger trials. Evidence is limited for these specific indications when assessed by international standards. Comparative evidence is lacking, and outside of the originating region, scientific overviews often cite no good scientific evidence to support these applications, meaning certainty remains low.

Long-Term Studies and Follow-Up Data

The majority of pivotal clinical studies was observed in trials lasting 60 to 90 days for active treatment protocols. While some research included a subsequent delayed period of assessment, there is limited information for long-term outcomes or how durable any observed patterns may be over extended periods of time (e.g., beyond one year). Results apply only to the populations studied in the primary trials.

What Remains Uncertain About Research Base

The current research evidence highlights what is known — and what is still uncertain regarding the drug. A key limitation is the geographic concentration of the clinical data in Russian-language scientific publications. Major international regulatory agencies, such as the US FDA, have publicly stated that data are still emerging and there is a lack of sufficient data to establish the drug’s use for any condition. Consequently, the evidence quality varies across studies, and the context of international peer-reviewed research remains incomplete.

Key Studies & References

  1. Clinical Efficacy of Picamilon in Patients with Chronic Cerebral Ischemia and Cognitive Impairment (Representative Trial)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common questions about Пикамилон (FAQ)


Q: Is there official guidance on using Пикамилон while breastfeeding or pregnant?

Official prescribing information in the authorizing jurisdiction (Russian Federation) contraindicates the use of this medication during both pregnancy and lactation (breastfeeding). This restriction is in place because the safety and effectiveness of the drug have not been established for either population.


Q: Does alcohol interact negatively with Пикамилон?

Official interaction statements advise that using Пикамилон concurrently with substances that depress the Central Nervous System (CNS), including alcohol, is generally discouraged. This is because the combination may potentially increase the risk of enhanced sedative effects or other related adverse reactions.


Q: Is it possible to be allergic to Пикамилон?

Yes, official regulatory documents list hypersensitivity to the active substance, Nicotinoyl-GABA, or any other component (excipient) in the formulation as a contraindication for its use. Hypersensitivity refers to the potential for an allergic reaction.


Q: What is the legal status of Пикамилон in the United States or Europe?

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has determined that the substance is not approved as a drug for any medical condition in the United States, nor does it meet the definition of a lawful dietary ingredient. Similar restrictions apply in Europe and other regions where it is not classified as an approved medicine.


Q: Is Пикамилон considered a controlled substance?

Official sources confirm that Пикамилон is not classified as a controlled substance under the U.S. Controlled Substances Act or major international conventions. Its status in non-approving countries is typically that of an unapproved drug or an unlisted ingredient.


Q: What are the requirements for prescribing Пикамилон?

In the Russian Federation, the authorizing jurisdiction, Пикамилон is classified as a prescription-only drug, meaning its use requires a valid medical prescription from a licensed healthcare provider.


Q: Is the effectiveness of Пикамилон supported by multiple international studies?

Scientific and regulatory reviews conducted by agencies outside the authorizing jurisdiction have noted that the majority of clinical data is geographically concentrated in Russian-language scientific publications. These reviews often state there is currently a lack of sufficient data and comprehensive international peer-reviewed evidence to establish its effectiveness by global regulatory standards.


Q: How long does the effect of one dose of Пикамилон usually last?

Pharmacokinetic data from scientific reviews indicate that the drug has a relatively short presence in the body. Its elimination half-life—the time it takes for the concentration to halve—is reported to be approximately 1 to 2 hours following a single oral administration.


Q: What is the recommended period of time for using Пикамилон?

Official information indicates that administration is structured in defined courses (cycles) rather than continuous, open-ended use. Clinical study protocols and official prescribing information often cite typical treatment courses ranging from 1 to 3 months in duration.


Q: What are the most commonly reported side effects of Пикамилон?

Side effects related to the component nicotinic acid (niacin) are often reported, and may include flushing, itching, and a transient lowering of blood pressure. However, major international regulatory agencies do not widely publish specific official frequency classifications (such as 'common' or 'rare').


Q: Is it safe to drive or operate machinery while taking Пикамилон?

Because the drug acts on the central nervous system, official labels may advise caution regarding activities requiring high concentration and fast psychomotor reactions. The final warnings related to operating machinery or driving are determined by the local official product information.


Q: Are there any known long-term side effects from using Пикамилон?

Regulatory safety evaluations often note that clinical studies have had limited follow-up duration, typically focusing on the initial 60–90 day active treatment period. Therefore, information regarding specific safety patterns or outcomes beyond intermediate-term use is limited in the current published research base.


Q: Can Пикамилон be taken by older adults?

Official clinical studies have examined the drug's use in adult and older adult populations (up to age 69). While general eligibility is allowed for adults without contraindications, any specific requirements for dose adjustment or additional safety constraints for the elderly population are determined by the official local label.


Q: Can Пикамилон be taken with vitamins or mineral supplements?

The only specific interaction highlighted in official information is the potential for an additive effect with its component, niacin (Vitamin B₃) supplements. There are no broad, official interaction statements for general vitamins or minerals, but all supplements should be reported to a healthcare provider.


Q: Can Пикамилон affect the results of lab tests?

Since the substance is metabolized to nicotinic acid (niacin), there is a potential for it to influence laboratory tests used to measure niacin or nicotinamide metabolites in the body. The potential for interference is a factor that must be considered when laboratory results are assessed.


Q: How does Пикамилон differ from Piracetam?

Both Piracetam and Пикамилон are classified as nootropic agents. However, Пикамилон is distinct due to its unique chemical composition, which grants it an additional classification as a cerebrovasodilator because its nicotinic acid component increases cerebral blood flow.

How should Пикамилон be stored and disposed of?

The storage and disposal of Пикамилон (Nicotinoyl Gamma-aminobutyric Acid) must conform strictly to official regulatory requirements to ensure product stability and safety.

Storage Requirements

Condition Regulatory Requirement
Temperature Store below 25 C
Protection Must be kept in a dry place and protected from light
Packaging Store in the original packaging
Safety Keep out of the reach of children

Disposal Instructions

Official regulations require that unused or expired Пикамилон must not be discarded into wastewater or regular household trash. Disposal must be performed in accordance with local pharmaceutical waste regulations, often via authorized take-back programs.

Attention! Always consult to a doctor or pharmacist before using pills or medicines.

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