Benzodiazepines Flashcards
1
Q
Mechanism of action of benzodiazepines
A
Act on GABAa receptors which mediate inhibitory transmission allosterically
- > increase the GABA response
- Peripheral benzo binding sites in many tissues
2
Q
Pharmacological effects of benzo’s
A
Decrease anxiety and aggression Induce sleep and sedation Reduction of muscle tone and co ordination Anticonvulsant effect Anterograde amnesia
3
Q
Side effects of benzo’s
A
Drowsiness and sedation -> CNS depression *resp depression Proximal muscle weakness and ataxia Postural hypotension Impaired episodic memory Dependence and tollerance
4
Q
Long term effects of benzo’s
A
Depression Poor concentration Impaired cognition Emotional blunting Impaired visual spatial ability Amnesia Increased reaction time
5
Q
Withdrawal symptoms of benzo’s
A
Occur after weeks of therapeutic dose Rebound anxiety Tremor Dizziness Tinnitus Wt loss Disturbed sleep
6
Q
Symptoms of benzo overdose
A
Drowsiness Dysarthria Nystagmus Hypothermia Rhabdomyolysis *life threatening if combined with other CNS depressants ->flumazenil
7
Q
Examples of long and short acting benzo’s
A
Short acting :
Oxazepam
Temazepam
Lorazepam
Long acting:
Chlordiazepoxide
Diazepam
8
Q
Indications of benzodiazepines
A
Insomnia Anxiety Alcohol withdrawal Akathisia Acute mania or psychosis Epilepsy
