Barbiturates

Question 1

barbiturates are derived from…

Answer 1

Malonic acid and barbituric acid

Question 2

Classification of barbiturates

Answer 2

Ultra-short acting
Short acting
Intermediate acting
Long acting

Question 3

Ultra-short acting

Answer 3

Duration of action: 30 mins
Main Use: IV anaesthetic

Question 4

Short acting

Answer 4

Duration of action: 2 hours
Main Use: sedative

Question 5

Intermediate acting

Answer 5

Duration of action: 3-5 hours
Main Use: Hypnotic

Question 6

Long acting

Answer 6

Duration of action: > 6 hours
Main Use: anticonvulsant

Question 7

Which receptors do Barbiturates bind to?

Answer 7

AMPA and GABA

Question 8

Barbiturates and AMPA receptors

Answer 8

Inhibition of AMPA receptor
Inhibition of Glutamate
Depression of the CNS

Question 9

Barbiturates and GABA receptors

Answer 9

Activation of GABA receptors
Opening of Cl- channels
Hyperpolarization of cells
Potentiate GABA inhibitory action
Depression of the CNS

Question 10

Are barbiturates CNS depressants or stimulants?

Answer 10

CNS depressants.
They inhibit glutamate and hyperpolarize cells

Question 11

Adverse effects of barbiturates

Answer 11

• Drowsiness
• Over excitement
• Nightmares and night terrors
• Weakness
• Allergic skin reaction
• Localised or diffuse pain
• Psychological dependence
• Tolerance.

Question 12

What is a primary cause of the adverse effects of barbiturates?

Answer 12

The hyperpolarization of cells by the opening of Cl- channels.