L-838417 is a subtype-selective GABAA receptor partial agonist. L-838417 selectively binds to α1, α2, α3 and α5 subunits (Ki values are 0.79, 0.67, 0.67 and 2.25 nM respectively) but displays no efficacy at α1 (α1-sparing). L-838417 exhibits non-sedative anxiolytic, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activity.