Drug Therapy

Question 1

What are the two drugs that are used in drug therapy?

Answer 1

Benzodiazepines and beta blockers

Question 2

What is the role of benzodiazepines?

Answer 2

They work by increasing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA which has a quietening effect on many of the brains neurons. GABA works by allowing an increase of chloride ions into the neurons making it more difficult for other neurotransmitters to stimulate them. This results in a slowing down of neural activity creating a sensation of calm. BZs also quieten the excitatory effect of serotonin by slowing down the activity of the nervous system

Question 3

What is an example of a benzodiazepine?

Answer 3

Valium

Question 5

What are two strengths of benzodiazepines?

Answer 5

• easy to take, cost effective and are popular with patients
• Baldwin et al found that BZs are significantly more effective than placebos in treating acute anxiety

Question 6

What are three limitations of benzodiazepines?

Answer 6

• they have a risk of dependency so should not be the first choice of drug therapy
• short term treatment only because of addiction and because the brain develops a tolerance to them
• a minority of patients experience side effects e.g lapses in concentration, aggression and cognitive impairments so may stop taken them before symptom reduction is achieved

Question 7

What is the role of beta blockers?

Answer 7

They work by blocking the transmission of nerve impulses. Some nerve endings release noradrenaline which activates beta adrenergic receptors and they are also stimulated by adrenaline which is released when an individual is frightened or anxious. Beta blockers sit on beta adrenergic receptors blocking them from being stimulated

Question 8

What is an example of a beta blocker?

Answer 8

Propranolol

Question 10

What are three strengths of beta blockers?

Answer 10

• immediate effect, acting directly on the body therefore a desirable treatment
• Kelly found that BBs were effective for treating everyday anxieties associated with public speaking and exam nerves
• research has consistently shown that BBs are effective treatment

Question 11

What is a limitation of beta blockers?

Answer 11

They do not address the cause of the problem merely it’s symptoms so symptoms will return when they stop taking medication

Question 12

What is a strength/limitation of beta blockers?

Answer 12

They are not associated with dependency and addiction but have serious side effects such as tiredness nightmares and hallucinations