anti anxiety

Question 1

what are the drugs used for anxiety

Answer 1

Benzodiazepines

short acting
- midazolam

intermediate acting
- lorazepam, alprazolam

long acting
-diazepam

Question 2

What is the pharmacodynamics of benzodiazepines

Answer 2

• potentiation of GABA actions via specific benzodiazepine sites in the CNS. Increase frequency of the chloride channel opening, GABA dependent.

Question 3

how is benzodiazepine administered

Answer 3

IV

Question 4

Why is diazepam long acting

Answer 4

Because when it is metabolised,its metabolites are active compounds which continues its therapeutic effect

Diazepam–> nordazepam–> oxazepam

Question 5

What are the therapeutic use of Benzodiazepines

Answer 5

• treat anxietyand insomnia,
• emergency for status epilepticus ( diazepam and lorazepam)
• muscle relaxant
• premedication or sedation for sedation as part of balanced anesthesia
• alcohol withdrawal

Question 6

What are the adverse effects ( in order of frequency

Answer 6

1. Dose-related drowsiness, diminished motor skills, increase reaction time
2. Anterogade amnesia
3. Reduced BP
4. Paradoxical effect, may cause garrulousness, irritability, sexual hallucination, hypomanic behaviour
5. Neonatal toxicity, may lead to floppy child syndrome
6. tolerance, dependence and withdrawal