Random pharmacology

Question 1

What is GABA?

Answer 1

The main inhibitory transmitter in the brain

Question 2

Mechanism of action of benzodiazepines?

Answer 2

Enhance the effect of GABA

Question 3

Benzodiazepines are described as positive allosteric modulators. What does this mean?

Answer 3

GABA must be present for them to act.

They act as agonists at the allosteric modulatory site

Question 4

Name 3 examples of benzodiazepeines

Answer 4

Lorazepam
Diazepam
Chlordiazepoxide

Question 5

Lorazepam is a short/long acting benzodiazepine?

Answer 5

Short acting

Question 6

Diazepam is a short/long acting benzodiazepine?

Answer 6

Long acting

Question 7

Uses of benzodiazepines?

Answer 7

For sedation
To reduce anxiety and aggression
Muscle relaxation
Pre-medication before surgery

Question 8

Benzodiazepines can only be used short term. True or false?

Answer 8

True

Question 9

Why can’t benzodiazepines be used long term?

Answer 9

Patient develops tolerance

Question 10

Complications of benzodiazepines

Answer 10

Only used short term
Withdrawal symptoms
Dependency and abuse
Alcohol interaction

Question 11

How to withdraw benzodiazepines

Answer 11

1. Transfer patient to equivalent daily dose of Benzodiazepine preferably at night
2. Reduce dose every 2-3 weeks
3. Stop completely

Question 12

Withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines

Answer 12

Abdominal cramps 
Increased anxiety
Blurred vision
Depression
Insomnia
Dizziness
Headaches 
Inability to concentrate 
N+V
Tingling in hands and feet