HD 9- Anxiolytics and Hypnotics

Question 1

Effects of benzodiazepines?

MOA?

Answer 1

• Hypnotic – induce sleep
• Anxiolytic
• Anticonvulsant – prevent seizures (i.e. epilepsy)
• Muscle relaxant – masseteric spasms – may prescribe BDZ to prevent this
2mg TDS (MAX)
• Amnesic – can’t remember anything after taking
• Fantasies

Dont prescribe for longer than a month- ADDICTIVE

Influence GABA at Cl channel = increase frequency of opening of the channel

Question 2

What happen when benzodiazepines are taken with methadone?

Answer 2

Respiratory arrest.

Question 3

Apart from benzos, name another class of hypnotic drugs?

Answer 3

Anti-Histamines

• H1 blockers (anti-allergy) produce CNS depression at therapeutic doses

Question 4

What would you prescribe an individual needs anxiety help short term for single occasion and why?

Answer 4

Buspirone 
•	An azapirone
•	Does not act at BZD receptors
•	Acts as a serotonin receptor agonist
•	Does not cause sedation – ANXIOLYTIC WITHOUT SEDATION 
•	No withdrawal effects
•	Causes dry mouth