Sedative-Hypnotic Drugs

Question 1

Sedative Hypnotic Drugs

Answer 1

• Benzodiazepines (xanax, ativan)
• Benzodiazepine-like drugs (ambien, lunesta)
• Ramelteon (rozerem): melatonin agonist
• Barbituates (secobarbital, phenobarbital)

Question 2

Benzodiazepines

Answer 2

• drugs of choice to treat insomnia and anxiety
• used to induce general anesthesia
• used to manage seizure disorders, muscle spasms, panic disorders, and withdrawl from alcohol
• most familiar memeber is diazepam (valium) while the most prescribed are ativan and xanax
• safer than general CNS depressants
• lower potential for abuse than barbituates
• produce less tolerance and physical dependance
• fewer drug interactions
• MOA: enhances GABA effects

Question 3

Adverse effects of Benzodiazepines

Answer 3

• CNS depressio
• anterograde amnesia
• sleep driving
• paradoxical effects
• respiratory depression
• abuse
• pregnancy and lactation

Question 4

Barbituates

Answer 4

• can be Ultrashort acting (thiopental), short to intermediate acting (secobarbital), or long acting (phenobarbital)
• MOA: binds to the GABA receptor - chloride channel complex
• causes CNS depression, cardiovascular effects, and the induction of hepatic drug metabolizing enzymes
• interacts with CNS depressants, chloral hydrate, and meprobamate
• adverse effects include respiratory depression, suicide, abuse, use in pregnancy, hangover, paradoxical excitment, and hyperalgesia