Benzodiazepines Flashcards
Give 4 examples of benzodiazepines?
- Diazepam
- Temazepam
- Lorazepam
- Chlordiazepoxide
What is the mechanism of action of benzodiazepines?
Increase affinity of inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA to bind to GABAa receptor, causing post-synaptic chloride ion channels to open
What are the routes of delivery of benzodiazepines?
- PO
- IM
- IV
- Buccal
- PR
What must be available when administered IV benzodiazepine?
Resuscitation facilities
What are the indications for benzodiazepines? -
- Treatment of seizures and status epilepticus
- Short-term treatment for severe, distressing, or disabling anxiety
- Short-term treatment for insomnia
- Procedural sedation
What are the indications specifically for chlordiazepoxide?
Alcohol withdrawal
What are the indications specifically for diazepam?
- Tetanus
- Muscle spasm
- Acute drug-induced dystonic reactions
What are the contraindications to benzodiazepines?
- Respiratory depression
- Respiratory failure
- Neuromuscular conditions, e.g. unstable myasthenia gravis
Why are benzodiazepines contraindicated in respiratory depression/failure and neuromuscular conditions?
In overdose, they can cause a loss of airway reflexes, which can lead to airway obstruction, and patients with respiratory depression or neuromuscular problems are at increased risk
When should benzodiazepines be avoided?
Liver failure
Why should benzodiazepines be avoided in liver failure?
Risk of provoking hepatic encephalopathy
Can you use benzodiazepines in elderly?
Avoid if possible, or consider lower doses
What monitoring is required with benzodiazepines?
- Monitor vital signs and clinical state frequently when administering drug IV or in high oral doses
- Ask about symptoms and side effects when reviewing patients who take benzodiazepines in the community
What might interact with benzodiazepines?
- CYP450 inhibitors
- Alcohol and opioids
- Antihypertensive medications
- Clozapine
- Flumazenil
What might happen if benzodiazepines are given with CYP40 inhibitors?
Increased effects of benzodiazepines