The definition of health is comprehensive, encompassing social, mental, and physical well-being. Psychosomatic disorders, in which psychological factors contribute to physical symptoms, highlight the intricate interplay between the mind and body. Stress and emotional disturbances exacerbate conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, irritable bowel syndrome, and eczema, often through physiological changes like autonomic nervous system imbalances and hypothalamic-pituitary- adrenal axis dysregulation. Although the classification of psychosomatic disorders is evolving, it lacks comprehensive representation in diagnostic manuals such as the DSM-5 and ICD, underscoring the need for standardized definitions. Etifoxine, a novel anxiolytic, addresses the psychosomatic manifestations of anxiety by modulating the GABAergic system and activating the 18- kDa translocator protein (TSPO). This dual mechanism enhances neurosteroid production, alleviates neuroinflammation, and stabilizes the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, thereby mitigating both psychological and physical symptoms. Unlike benzodiazepines, Etifoxine provides anxiolytic benefits with fewer side effects and a lower risk of dependency, making it suitable for long-term use. Its efficacy in managing somatic symptoms such as muscle tension, gastrointestinal distress, and autonomic dysregulation contributes to improved patient quality of life and functional outcomes. While promising, further research is required to establish its long-term safety and effectiveness across diverse populations, positioning Etifoxine as a pivotal tool in psychosomatic medicine.
Jain et al. (2026) studied this question.