Diazepam is a benzodiazepine first discovered at Hoffman-La Roche in the late 1950s. Diazepam was approved by FDA for the treatment of anxiety disorders as well as for such conditions as skeletal muscle spasm, alcohol withdrawal syndrom and convulsions (under the most known brand Valium). The drug acts by binding to GABA-A receptors and potentiating GABA evoked current. Chronic diazepam use is associated with tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.

Fonturacetam, also known as Phenylpiracetam, is marketed in Russia as Carphedon and Phenotropil. It is one of the first ever nootropic drugs and originally discovered in Russia. Fonturacetam acts on most neurotransmitter systems and has been used for its cognitive and physical enhancing properties, and also as an antidepressant.