Nootropics (local classification). Russian and Japanese development.
ATC code: N06BX-HOPANTENIC (Hopantenic acid (Pantogam) – local code)
Hopantenic acid is a derivative of gamma-aminobutyric and pantothenic acids. Synthesised in Japan in the 1950s as a «pantothenic acid homologue». The manufacturer claims GABAergic activity and improved cerebral metabolism. In Japan in 1989 the drug was voluntarily withdrawn by the manufacturer after reports of Reye-like syndrome cases and fatal complications. In Russia the drug remains registered as a nootropic. Absent from international guidelines.
The drug is promoted for these uses outside international guidelines. Each entry below is analyzed against AEMPS, FDA, EMA, Cochrane and major RCTs.
Not recommended
Pantogam is frequently prescribed in Russian paediatric neurology for ADHD as a «mild and safe nootropic». , , and CADDRA ADHD guidelines do not list the drug. First-line ADHD treatment in international guidelines is psychostimulants (, lisdexamfetamine) and behavioural therapy; no GABA-derivative nootropics are included.
Not recommended
For paediatric neurosis-like and tic disorders, pantogam is prescribed in Russia in 1-3 month courses. and AACAP paediatric anxiety and tic guidelines do not list the drug. First-line international guidance is CBT; SSRIs (sertraline, fluoxetine) in children over 6 are used for confirmed anxiety disorder.
Not recommended
Hopantenic acid (Pantogam) is an analogue of pantothenic acid with a GABAergic component, developed in the USSR. It is registered in Russia for cognitive impairment in adults and children. The evidence base is limited to in-house Russian studies. There are no independent international clinical studies with endpoints on validated scales (MMSE, MoCA, ADAS-Cog). After voluntary withdrawal from sale in Japan in 1989, the drug is not used outside the post-Soviet region. International clinical guidelines (, Alzheimer's Association) do not include Pantogam. If Pantogam was prescribed to a child or adult for memory, consider seeking a second opinion.
Opens the checker prefilled with this drug. Pick the second one from your regimen.
Contraindicated in the first trimester; cautious use in the second and third.
Use during breastfeeding is restricted.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Hopantenic acid (calcium hopantenate) is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Anxiety and stress in children (evidence tier F), ADHD (evidence tier F), Memory and concentration enhancement (evidence tier F). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Hopantenic acid (calcium hopantenate) (≥ 1 in 100): Allergic reactions, Rhinitis, Conjunctivitis, Agitation, sleep disturbance, Daytime drowsiness. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category N. Contraindicated in the first trimester; cautious use in the second and third.
Use during breastfeeding is restricted.
Hopantenic acid (calcium hopantenate) is contraindicated in: Acute severe renal disease; First trimester pregnancy; Hypersensitivity; Phenylketonuria (for aspartame-containing forms). Full list in the Safety section.