Anxiolytics

Question 1

Diazepam

Answer 1

long-acting benzodiazepine indicated as follows:

1. As an anxiolytic, it is effective for the management of generalized anxiety disorder and panic attacks.
2. sedative-hypnotic effect of diazepam is useful for the short-term treatment of insomnia.
3. As an anticonvulsant, diazepam is indicated for status epilepticus. It is a first-line agent (along with chlordiazepoxide) for the treatment of seizures associated with alcohol withdrawal.
4. As a muscle relaxant, diazepam can stop the spasticity caused by upper motor neuron disorders (multiple sclerosis, strokes, spinal cord trauma) and tetanus.

S/e:

• sedation
• also impair coordination and balance (sometimes avoided in the elderly for fear of falls), decrease memory and concentration, and produce confusion.