Sleep Flashcards
What are some physical features of REM sleep
Rapid eye movement, rapid and irregular HR, increased BP, vivid dreams
List examples of benzodiazepines
- diazepam, temazepam, oxazepam
List 3 antihistamines used for sedation
Diphenhydramine, promethazine, doxylamine
Explain the effects of hypnotic drugs
- reduces sleep latency
- suppresses REM sleep
Consequences of hypnotic drugs?
REM rebound can occur
Risk of dependence is high after just 2-3 weeks of use
Explain GABA and some fo the neurotransmitters it effects
GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the CNS
It inhibits: NA, 5-HT, DA, histamine, ACh, etc
What are the 3 allosteric binding site on the GABA-A receptor?
Ethanol, barbiturate and benzodiazepine
Describe the brining of GABA-A receptor and what happens (agonist= GABA)
GABA binds to GABA-A, causing a conformational change. The central pore changes shape, allowing an influx of chloride ions (along concentration gradient). This hyperpolarises the cell
What effect does hyperpolarisation have on the neuronal cell?
Inhibition. the resultant negative membrane potential decreases the excitability of the neuron.
How do benzodiazepines increase activity of the GABA receptor?
Only works in the presence of GABA. BDZ causes the channel to open more frequently. This increases hyperpolarisation
What effect do barbiturates have on the GABA receptor?
Keeps the channel open for longer.
Explain the effects of BDZ?
- induction of sleep and sedation
- reduction of anxiety and aggression
- reduction of muscle tone
- anterograde amnesia
Explain zopiclone
Works similarly to BDZ. Binds allosterically to GABA-A and increases affinity for GABA. Rebound insomnia is common.
How does blockage of H1 receptors cause drowsiness
H1 receptor is linked to the release of phospholipase C, leading to calcium efflux and neuronal excitement. By blocking H1, neuronal activity is decreases which leads to drowsiness
Anterograde amnesia is a side effect of which drug class
Benzodiazepines
