Benzodiazepines

Question 1

Cautions

Answer 1

Avoid prolonged use
Avoid abrupt withdrawal
Patient with drug/alcohol dependence

Question 2

Paradoxical effects?

Answer 2

• opposite effect of the intended purpose e.g. anxiety, aggressive, talk, hostile

Question 3

Common side effects

Answer 3

Anxiety, ataxia, dizzy, fatigue, sleep disorders, muscle weakness

Question 4

Contraindications:

Answer 4

MG
Acute pulmonary insufficiency
Sleep apnoea

Question 5

Pregnancy/breast feeding?

Answer 5

Avoid if possible, unless there is a clear indication

Question 6

Patient/carer advice

Answer 6

Drowsiness - driving/performed task
Enhanced by alcohol
Hepatic impairment - short half live e.g. temazepam