&NA;Pazinaclone (A 77000, DN 2327) is a novel isoindoline derivative with a selective anxiolytic action. Although pazinaclone has a different chemical structure to the benzodiazepines, it has been found to bind to benzodiazepine receptors. The compound is currently being developed as an anxiolytic agent by Takeda. Pazinaclone is in phase III clinical trials in Europe, and phase II trials in Japan and the US.Pazinaclone is a relatively specific benzodiazepine BZ1receptor agonist in contrast to classical benzodiazepines. Pazinaclone has demonstrated anxiolytic activity in patients with generalised anxiety disorder. Pazinaclone may have a similar profile of adverse events to the classical benzodiazepines. However, pazinaclone is an interesting new compound and further clinical studies are warranted.