Sedatives Flashcards
What is the mechanism of action of Benzodiazepines?
Modulate the activity of the inhibitory neurotransmitter: GABA
What are the advantages of using benzodiazepines vs barbituates?
Benzo’s:
- Less addiction potential
- Larger therapeutic index
- Less respiratory depression
What can happen with IV injection of diazepam?
Can cause irritation such as thrombophlebitis due to the solvent the benzodiazepine is dissolved in.
What is thiopental’s mechanism of action?
Terminated by redistribution of the drug out of the brain - it enters the brain rapidly and exits rapidly = quick onset, short duration
Are barbiturates considered analgesics?
NO!
What happens with a barbiturate toxicity?
Respiratory depression
Where are barbiturates contraindicated?
In patient’s with intermittent porphyria - they enhance porphyrin synthesis and thus will aggravate the disease
In patient’s with Emphysema
In patient’s with severe pain
How are barbiturates classified?
According to their duration of action:
Thiopental - ultra short acting
Phenobarbital - long acting
What drug can reverse the effects of benzodiazepines?
Aminophylline
