Anxiolytics Flashcards
Benzodiazapines
Increase the effects of GABA on GABA - A receptors
Examples of Benxodiazapines
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clonazapam
- Diazepam
Clinical uses for benzodiazepines
Sedation (before surgery)
Reduce anxiety
Muscle relaxation
Adverse effects of benzodiazepines
- Drowsiness
- Ataxia (loss of coordination)
- Danger of drug accumulation
- Dangerous when combined with alcohol
- Can cause anterograde amnesia
- risk of substance use disorders
- prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms if discontinued suddenly
What is the antidote for a benzodiazepine overdose
Flumazenil - Works as it is a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist
- Can trigger seizures as a rebound effect
Flunitrazepam
- Rohypnol
approved for use in Europe/South America
10x more potent than diazepam
Gamma Hydroxybutyrate
GHB
- Found in the brain
- Acts on GABA receptors
- Often contain toxic residues leftover from their chemical synthesis
What happens when Rohypnol and GHB are combined with alcohol
- Fainting
- Anterograde amnesia
- Respiratory depression
- Bradycardia
- Hypotension
Non Benzodiazepines
Anxiolytic drugs that share the same chemical structure of benzodiazepines but act on the same receptor
Examples of Non Benzodiazepines
- Zopiclone
- Zolpidem
Uses for Non Benzodiazepines
Used to treat insomnia
Benefits of Non Benzodiazepines
Fewer adverse effects affecting coordination and memory
Generally shorter duration and onset of action
Busipirone
Decreases the release of serotonin (5-HT)
Benefits of Busipirone
- Less sedative
- Fewer interactions with alcohol
- Less use than benzos
- Does not act very quickly
Side effects of Busipirone
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
Adrenergic Anxiolytics
- Alpha - 2 agonist
- Beta adrenergic Antagonists
Alpha - 2 Agonist
Clonidine
- May reduce the physical symptoms but are not particularly effective at reducing anxiety on the emotional level
Beta Adrenergic Antagonists
Propranolol
- Often used for the treatment of social phobia, preformance anxiety and anxiety related to the memory of stressful events
