Benzo And Z Drugs

Question 1

What are the 5 therapeutic uses of benzodiazepines

Answer 1

Anticonvulsants
Anxiolytic/anti agitation
Hypnotic
Muscle relaxant
Catatonia (high doses needed)

Question 2

What is the mechanism of benzodiazepine action

Answer 2

They are positive allosteric modulators and bind to receptors adjacent to GABA you cause inhibition of the CNS

Question 3

Benzodiazepines can cause psychological dependence at any point. How can you reduce addictive potential when prescribing?

Answer 3

Prescribe long acting
Avoid xanax or alprazolam
Only use when indicated, taper and de prescribe when possible

Question 4

What are side effects of benzodiazepine treatment

Answer 4

Anterograde amnesia
Anticholinergic effects
Drowsiness
Respiratory depression
Fatigue
Impaired concentration
Incoordination
Psychomotor slowing

Question 5

What are withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines and why should you monitor

Answer 5

It may be life threatening!
Mild symptoms include agitation, anxiety, dysphoria, GI upset, perceptual disturbances

Severe symptoms I bc life agitation, coma, delirium, psychosis, seizures

Question 6

Describe the toxicity of benzodiazepines in overdose

Answer 6

Non toxic but may be toxic/fatal if mixed with other cns depressants