What is "etifoxine"

n. An anxiolytic and anticonvulsant drug.

Etifoxine ( INN, also known as etafenoxine; trade name Stresam) is an anxiolytic and anticonvulsant drug developed by Hoechst in the 1960s. It is used in some countries for anxiety disorders. It has similar effects to benzodiazepine drugs, but is structurally distinct and does not bind to the benzodiazepine receptor. It is more effective than lorazepam as an anxiolytic, and has fewer side effects. Etifoxine is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the European Medicines Agency.