Treatment of Anxiety

Question 1

What should be the first way to treat short term anxiety?

Answer 1

Try non-pharmacological measures first where appropriate

Question 2

What 3 things can be done to aid a patient who is anxious?

Answer 2

• May give premedication to aid anxiety before dental treatment
• Short early morning appointment
• Give adequate pain relief

Question 3

What type of drug is Diazepam? (2)

Answer 3

• Anxiolytic

- Sedative

Question 4

Describe the onset of action of diazepam

When is its peak effect?

Answer 4

• Rapid
• 20-40 mins
• Peak effect 1-2 hours after dose

Question 5

How long can diazepam exert clinical effect?

Answer 5

24-48 hours

Question 6

What advice would you give someone for the rest of their day after taking diazepam? (3)

Answer 6

• Advise against driving and need for escort
• Do not operate machinery
• Avoid alcohol

Question 7

Give 2 examples of dosing regimes for diazepam

Answer 7

• 5 mg 1-2 hours before the treatment
  OR
• 5 mg the night before treatment, 5mg on waking and 2 hours before treatment

Question 8

What type of drug is Temazepam? (2)

Answer 8

• Hypnotic

- Anxiolytic

Question 9

Describe the onset of action of temazepam

When is its peak effect?

Answer 9

• Rapid
• 30-60 minutes
• Peak effect 1 hour

Question 10

What advice would you give someone for the rest of their day after taking temazepam? (3)

Answer 10

• Advise against driving and need for escort
• Do not operate machinery
• Avoid alcohol

Question 11

What act states

‘Diazepam and Temazepam can impair cognitive function and can affect ability to drive safely.’?

Answer 11

Road Traffic Act 1988

Question 12

What side effects may occur from diazepam or temazepam that would impair ones ability to drive? (6)

Answer 12

• Sedation
• Amnesia
• Impaired concentration
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Impaired muscular function