Pharmacology of Anxiolytic Drugs Flashcards
What are the main drugs used to treat anxiety?
Benzodiazepines Antidepressants Buspirone Pregabalin Beta blockers (propranolol)
What are the core symptoms of anxiety disorders?
Fear (panic and phobia)
Worry (anxiety/apprehension/obsession)
Which GABA receptor is the main target of benzodiazepines?
GABA-A
What occurs when benzodiazepines bind to GABA-A?
Positive allosterism - more chloride passes through channel
What effect does increased chloride concentration have on neurone transmission?
Decreased conduction
What are the main benzodiazepines used?
Lorazepam
Diazepam
Chloradiazepoxide
Give some effects of benzodiazepines
Reduced anxiety
Hypnosis/sedation
Muscle relaxation
Anticonvulsant
When are benzodiazepines used clinically?
Acute treatment of extreme anxiety
Hypnosis
Alcohol withdrawal
Give some withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines
Abdo cramps Increased anxiety Depression Insomnia Dizziness Headaches
Why do benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms occur?
Chronic treatment with benzodiazepines decreases response to GABA
SSRIs are indicated for which anxiety disorders?
Panic disorder
OCD
PTSD
GAD
Tricyclics are second line treatment of which disorder?
Panic disorder
Venlafaxine can be used to treat which anxiety disorder?
Generalised anxiety disorder
What are the steps in managing generalised anxiety disorder?
Psychoeducation and self help
High intensity CBT OR SSRI
SNRI
Pregabalin
What are the steps in managing panic disorder?
Self help
CBT OR SSRI (if no benefit from CBT)
Tricyclics
