General Flashcards
What is diazepam?
A benzodiazepine medication
Brand names include Valium and Diastat
What is the purpose of diazepam?
Used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal
How does diazepam work?
Works by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
What is anti-abrin?
An antitoxin or antidote
Administered intravenously in a hospital setting
What is the purpose of anti-abrin?
Used to treat poisoning by Abrus precatorius (rosary pea or jequirity bean)
How does anti-abrin work?
Neutralizes the toxic effects of abrin, a lectin found in the seeds of the Abrus precatorius plant
In the context of Abrus poisoning, what is the role of diazepam?
May be used as a secondary treatment to manage symptoms like anxiety, muscle spasms, or seizures
In the context of Abrus poisoning, what is the role of anti-abrin?
Is the primary antidote to counteract the toxic effects of abrin
What is Abrus precatorius?
A plant genus that includes the rosary pea or jequirity bean
What toxic compound is found in the seeds of Abrus precatorius?
Abrin (a toxic lectin)
What symptoms can ingestion of even a single seed of Abrus precatorius cause?
Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, fever, bleeding, organ failure
What should be done if Abrus poisoning is suspected?
Seek medical attention immediately
Is Abrus precatorius commonly consumed as food?
No
What is important to be aware of when handling Abrus precatorius?
Its toxic properties and handle it with caution if encountered in a botanical or medicinal context
