The drug Daritran was used to treat abdominal pain and associated anxiety. It was notably recommended for the teatment of peptic ulcers. The drug contained two active principles: oxyphencyclimine and meprobamate, to combat pain and anxiety, respectively. Meprobamate helped for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. The molecule binds to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABAa) receptors which interrupt neuronal communication in the reticular formation and spinal cord, causing sedation and altered perception of pain. Oxyphencyclimine helped to control peptic ulcer disease and smooth muscle spasms in gastrointestinal disorders. Oxyphencyclimine binds the muscarinic acetylcholine receptors which mediate various cellular responses. Notably, oxphencyclimine inhibits vagally mediated reflexes by antagonizing the action of acetylcholine. This in turn reduces the secretion of gastric acids in the stomach.
The drug Daritran no longer exists; there are better options today. Meprobamate has been largely used as a sedative for anxiety and insomnia the 1960-70s, but it is now rarely used. An evocative illustration of the drug action is shown. As indicated, the drug was supposed to untie the spasm and to free the mind…
