¶ Bromantane (Ladasten)
¶ Overview
Bromantane (trade name Ladasten) is a synthetic adaptogen developed in Russia in the 1980s. It is classified as an actoprotector—a substance that enhances physical and mental performance under extreme conditions without increasing oxygen consumption or heat production. Unlike typical psychostimulants (like amphetamines) that release stored dopamine, Bromantane appears to upregulate the synthesis of dopamine, leading to a sustainable boost in motivation and focus with fewer crash/withdrawal symptoms.
¶ Mechanism of Action
- Tyrosine Hydroxylase Upregulation: Bromantane increases the expression of Tyrosine Hydroxylase (TH) and Aromatic L-amino acid Decarboxylase (AAAD), the key enzymes in the dopamine biosynthesis pathway. This effectively raises the brain's capacity to produce dopamine de novo[1].
- GABAergic Modulation: It may also influence GABA receptors, contributing to its unique profile as a "stimulating anxiolytic"—reducing anxiety while promoting wakefulness[2].
¶ Benefits and Evidence
- Asthenia and Fatigue: In Russian clinical practice, it is used to treat neurasthenia (chronic fatigue). Studies show improvements in subjective energy, motivation, and physical endurance.
- Anxiolytic Effect: Bromantane reduces anxiety symptoms without the sedation typical of benzodiazepines, making it useful for performance anxiety.
¶ Dosage and Usage
- Typical Dose: 50–100 mg per day.
- Route: Oral or sublingual.
- Duration: Often used in cycles (e.g., 2-4 weeks) to prevent potential tolerance, although the mechanism suggests tolerance should be slower than releasers.
¶ References
Vakhitova, Y. V., et al. (2004). Molecular mechanism of the action of actoprotector bromantane: induction of tyrosine hydroxylase gene expression. Biochemistry (Moscow). ↩︎
Iezhitsa, I. N., et al. (2002). Effect of bromantane on the dopaminergic and serotonergic systems of the rat brain. Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology. ↩︎