Sedatives & Tranquilizers

Question 1

What 5 CNS drug classes increase inhibition and decrease excitation (CNS depression)?

Answer 1

Anesthetics (general), narcotics, hypnotics, sedatives, and tranquilizers

Question 2

What 3 CNS drug classes decrease inhibition and increase excitation (CNS stimulation)?

Answer 2

Analeptics, psychomotor stimulants, convulsants

Question 3

Define sedatives

Answer 3

A substances that induces sedation - a state of calm, relaxation

• some sedatives lack analgesic effects

Question 4

What is the MOI of sedatives?

Answer 4

suppresion of spontaneous movement with maintenance of spinal reflexes

• pelvic/thoracic limb withdrawal reflex
• patellar reflex
• perineal reflex

Question 5

Uses of Alpha 2 Adrenergic Agonist Sedative

Answer 5

Profound sedation, chemical restraint, and analgesia

Question 6

Explain how alpha₂ agonist sedatives create sedation

Answer 6

They bind to alpha₂ receptors on the pre-synaptic terminal, preventing the release of NE; essentially decreases basosympathetic activity

Question 7

What brain region is targeted by alpha₂ agonist sedatives to produce sedation?

Answer 7

the locus coeruleus

Question 8

Activation of alpha 1 receptors in the CNS will cause what effects?

Answer 8

arousal, agitation, increased locomotor activity, and vigilance; can be paradoxical excitement in drugs that show more alpha 1 receptor activity

Question 9

What are potential side effects of alpha₂ adrenergic agonist sedatives?

Answer 9

decreased sympathetic outflow by inactivation of CNS receptors

• leads to increased parasympathetic tone and decreased HR & heart contraction

Question 10

Alpha 2 agonists mediate many of the analgesic effects through direct activation of what?

Answer 10

the spinal cord

Question 11

Define benzodiazepines

Answer 11

considered sedative-hypnotics due to ability to cause sedation and sleep

Question 12

What is the MOI of benzodiazepines?

Answer 12

They work through the GABAergic system to activate GABA (inhibitory) receptors that increase intracellular Cl and decrease cell firing

Question 13

What are the potential side effects of benzodiazepines?

Answer 13

• Sedation is not predictable
• Minimal CV effects
• Mild, dose-dependent respiratory depression
• Can stimulate appetite in cats

Question 14

Define phenothiazines

Answer 14

considered sedative-tranquilizers

Question 15

Define tranquilizer

Answer 15

a drug that reduces fear, anxiety, agitation; referred to as anti-psychotics or neuroleptic

Question 16

What is the MOI of phenothiazines?

Answer 16

blocking the actions of dopamine centrally and block alpha adrenergic receptors peripherally

Question 17

What are the potential side effects of phenothiazines?

Answer 17

• hypotension and vasodilation
• minimal respiratory depression
• anti-emetic