Pharmacology of anxiolytic drugs Flashcards
2 core symptoms of anxiety disorders
Fear and worry
Fear is controlled by what part of brain?
Amygdala
Worry is controlled by what part of brain?
Cortico-striatal thalamic-cortical circuit
Fight or flight is controlled by what part of brain ?
PAG
What is the main inhibitory transmitter in the brain?
GABA
Action of BZD
Enhance GABA action
Diazepam AKA
Valium
Lorazepam AKA
Ativan
What do BZD do?
Reduce anxiety and aggression
Muscle relax
Anticonvulsant
Anterograde amnesia
BZD can cause
Respiratory depression
SSRIs ______ serotonin
Increase
What do you avoid in panic disorders?
BZD or sedating antihistamines, propranolol
Manage PTSD Mild/<4 weeks of trauma
Watchful waiting
Manage PTSD within 3 months of trauma
CBT or hypnotic medication
More than 3 months after trauma PTSD
Trauma focussed CBT or EMDR