Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 7, 2026

Disrupting Reconsolidation of Fear Memory in Humans by a Noradrenergic β-Blocker
Published on: December 18, 2014
Novel pharmacological agents targeting memory and cognition in the treatment of anxiety disorders
Objective:
The aim of this study is to review data for several promising novel pharmacological drugs for anxiety disorders and describe how they exert their effects.
Method:
We presented a review of the published literature. Online search plus reference list checking was also used.
Results:
The neurobiology of anxiety is overviewed. N-methyl-D-aspartate and beta adrenaline are involved in memory consolidation. We describe studies using memantine, D-cycloserine, propranolol, and riluzole that modulate these pathways.
Conclusion:
There are a number of promising new therapies, but these require further studies before they can enter routine clinical practice.
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1. Benzodiazepines:
Benzodiazepines bind to the GABA-A receptor in the brain, enhancing GABA's interaction. This action reduces neurotransmission, effectively blocking anxiety-associated limbic circuitry.
Drug Therapy
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