TLDR Midazolam's seizure prevention is partly due to increased neurosteroid production.
The study demonstrated that midazolam's anticonvulsant activity in a PTZ seizure model in mice was partly mediated by neurosteroids. Midazolam increased the seizure threshold in a dose-dependent manner, and this effect was reduced by finasteride, a neurosteroid synthesis inhibitor, indicating the involvement of neurosteroids. Conversely, metyrapone, which enhances neurosteroid synthesis, further increased the seizure threshold when used with midazolam. The role of the translocator protein (TSPO) in this process was supported by the inhibition of midazolam's effects by PK 11195, a TSPO ligand. The study concluded that midazolam's anticonvulsant effects were linked to neurosteroid synthesis, potentially through TSPO interaction, highlighting the significant role of neurosteroids in modulating GABAA receptors.
18 citations
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April 2011 in “Neuropharmacology” 11β-Hydroxylase inhibitors help prevent seizures in mice by boosting natural neurosteroid production.
97 citations
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December 2010 in “Journal of Neuroscience” Midazolam impairs learning and memory by increasing neurosteroids through specific receptor activation.
66 citations
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January 2008 in “Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior” AC-5216 reduces anxiety in mice through neurosteroids affecting GABAA receptors.
137 citations
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March 2006 in “Cns Drug Reviews” Finasteride treats enlarged prostate and hair loss, but may cause side effects in some patients.
Finasteride, a medication, is being re-evaluated for its effects and uses.
269 citations
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May 2002 in “Journal of Neuroscience” Stress increases neurosteroids that help prevent seizures.
48 citations
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February 1999 in “PubMed” Finasteride, a drug, can block the seizure-preventing effects of a hormone called progesterone in mice.
December 2020 in “Current Sexual Health Reports” Finasteride can have lasting negative effects on brain function and behavior by disrupting neurosteroid production.
25 citations
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June 2017 in “Neuropharmacology” Increasing TSPO in the brain reduces anxiety and depression.
16 citations
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November 2018 in “The journal of pain/Journal of pain” 14,15-EET may help reduce poststroke pain by affecting certain brain proteins.
5 citations
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October 2020 in “Brain Research Bulletin” Etifoxine, an anxiety drug, can lessen brain inflammation and cognitive issues in mice, partly by increasing production of protective brain steroids.
May 2025 in “Neuropharmacology” Finasteride reduced seizures and prevented cognitive issues in rats after neonatal asphyxia but increased anxiety later.
