E1- Sedative-Hypnotics and Anxiolytics Flashcards
What is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain?
GABA
What is the general MOA of sedative-hypnotics/anxiolytics?
Bind to GABA, to either intensify or prolong the actions of GABA
What is an antihistamine used as an anti-anxiety medication that causes sedation that is a good option for recovering addicts and the elderly?
Hydroxyzine
What is the MOA of barbiturates?
Bind to GABA receptor to stimulate Cl- influx and produce inhibition independent of GABA (prolongs channel opening time)
What makes barbiturates a drug of abuse?
Causes euphorai
What long-acting barbiturate is used as an anticonvulsant?
Phenobarbital
Do barbiturates cross the BBB?
Yes, CNS depressant
How are barbiturates metabolized?
By the liver
Induce CYP450s
What are SE of barbiturates?
CNS depression
Paradoxical excitement
Severe physiological and psychological dependence
What are contraindications of barbiturates?
Porphyria
Pulmonary insufficiency
Combination with alcohol (supra-additive effects)
What is the safety margin of barbiturates?
Low margin of safety, no “ceiling effect”
How is barbiturate OD treated?
What should not be given?
Diuresis and alkalization of the urine
Stimulants increase mortality rate
What patient population should typically not be given benzodiazepines?
Elderly (do not metabolize BZs as quickly)
What benzodiazepines have a long duration of action?
Diazepam
Flurazepam
What benzodiazepines have an intermediate duration of action?
Alprazolam
Lorazepam
Oxazepam
What benzodiazepine has a short duration of action?
Midazolam
What is the MOA of benzodiazepines?
Bind to GABA receptor to increase the affinity of the receptor to GABA, prolonging its action; dependent on GABA
What is the safety margin of benzodiazepines?
High margin of safety, “ceiling effect”
What are the general uses of benzodiazepines?
Anxiety Insomnia Status epilepticus Sedation, amnesia, anesthesia Muscle relaxation
In what anxiety disorders are benzodiazepines not used?
Panic disorder, phobias, obsessive compulsive
PTSD, anxiety in children and adolescents
What benzodiazepines are used for insomnia?
Flurazepam
Temazepam
What benzodiazepines are used for Status Epilepticus?
Diazepam
Lorazepam
What benzodiazepines is used in preparation for anesthesia for short surgical procedures?
What is a SE?
Midazolam (IV)
Anterograde amnesia