CNS Meds: Sedative Hypnotics Flashcards
What are sedative hypnotics
These drugs suppress central nervous system (CNS).
sedative = promoting calm
hypnotics = inducing sleep
List the 2 major types of sedative hypnotics
benzodiazepines & barbiturates
Explain why barbiturates are more dangerous than benzodiazepines
greater risk for:
- respiratory depression
- physical dependence (uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms) –> more risk of developing tolerance and resulting in fatal overdose
Explain how benzodiazepines work
Benzodiazepines enhance the action of GABA
GABA will inhibit signal transmission in the brain and help to calm brain activity
examples of benzodiazepines
alprazolam
clonazepam
diazepam (Valium)
lorazepam
temazepam
List indications of benzodiazepines
- anxiety
- insomnia
- seizure disorders
- muscle spasm
- panic disorder
- alcohol withdrawal
Define generalized anxiety disorder
persistent and excessive worry about many things
Define social anxiety disorder
intense fear of being judged or negatively evaluated
Define panic disorder
Reoccurring unexpected panic attacks
List the central nervous system (CNS) side effects of sedative hypnotics
sedation, lightheaded, tired, drowsy, confusion, anterograde amnesia (short-term memory loss)
Explain why it is unsafe to take benzodiazepines and alcohol
Alcohol and benzodiazepines are both CNS depressants
–> patients will feel the effect of alcohol much faster!
Explain why it is unsafe to take benzodiazepines and opioids
Both of them suppress the CNS
–> risk of overdose and causing too much sedation of respiratory depression
List long-term side effects of benzodiazepine abuse
- bizarre and vivid dreams
- irritability
- amnesia
- insomnia
- bone and muscle pain
Explain the signs and symptoms of a benzodiazepine overdose
- coma
- dilated pupils
- rapid and weak pulse
- shallow breathing
- clammy (wet and sweaty) skin
Recall a drug used to reverse effects of a benzodiazepine overdose
Flumazenil
