Anti-anxiety medication

Question 1

Benzodiazepine mechanism

Answer 1

• Act on GABA-A receptors

Question 2

Benzo uses

Answer 2

• Short term use only
• Rapid relief of anxiety
• Alcohol detoxification

Question 3

Benzo examples

Answer 3

• Lorazepam – fast onset, short acting

* Diazepam – slower onset, longer acting

Question 4

Benzo dependence and withdrawal

Answer 4

should never be stopped abruptly. Acute withdrawal – anxiety, insomnia, seizure, death.

Question 5

Benzo side effects

Answer 5

drowsiness, light-headedness, ataxia, confusion, amnesia, paradoxical agitation, disinhibition.

Question 6

Benzo OD

Answer 6

ataxia, dysarthria, nystagmus, coma, respiratory depression.

Question 7

Buspirone

Answer 7

• 5HT1a partial agonist
• Poor bioavailability due to extensive first pass effect
• Side effects – light-headedness, nervousness and headache.

Question 8

Pregabalin

Answer 8

o GAD, neuropathic pain
o Gabapentin derivative
o Modifies neurotransmitter release.
o Side effects – somnolence, dizziness, increased appetite, mood changes, confusion, and ataxia.