Anxiolytic Drugs

Question 1

1. Fear is associated with the _______ circuit whereas worry is associated with the _____________ circuit.
2. _______ is the main inhibitory transmitter in the brain which _______ activity of the neurons in the fear/worry associated circuits.
3. What does GABA stand for?

Answer 1

1. Amygdala circuit, Cortico-Striatal-Thalamic-Cortical (CSCT).
2. GABA, reduces
3. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid

Question 2

1. What is the mode of action of Benzodiazepines?
2. What receptor do Benzodiazepines specifically bind to?
3. Name three common benzodiazepines and their tradenames

Answer 2

1. Agonists of the inhibitory transmitter GABA.
2. GABAa receptors
3. Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan), Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)

Question 3

1. Identify 7 pharmacological effects of benzodiazepines
2. What is the antagonist used in benzodiazepine overdose?
3. Other than dependence, name three other possible negative side effects of benzodiazepines
4. Why does one need to be careful when halting benzodiazepine treatment

Answer 3

1. Reduces anxiety and aggression, hypnosis/sedation, muscle relaxation, anticonvulsant effect, anterograde amnesia
2. Flumenazil
3. Anterograde amnesia, paradoxical aggression, impaired coordination.
4. Withdrawal syndrome common