Week 11 Flashcards
What substances are all considered to be Sedative-hypnotics?
Benzos, alcohol, newer sleeping meds (Ambien), barbiturate’s
What is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for Benzos and Barbiturates?
GABA
what sedative hypnotics have the potential for abuse and addiction
all of them
What is the mechanism of action of Benzos
They act to potentiate the effects of GABA by enhancing the chloride channel activity. Bind to GABA receptors.
Age and liver disease effect what Benzo?
diazepam
What benzo does age and liver disease not affect?
lorazepam
What are some advantages that Benzos have over barbiturates
greater dosing difference between anti-anxiety effects and hypnotic effects
less risk to produce tolerance and dependence
less misuse potential
higher therapeutic index (ratio of median lethal doses to median effective does)
How do benzos differ from one another?
Rate of onset action Duration of action active metabolites vs. inactive metabolites Rate of metabolism and half life potency Chemical structure
What can Benzos also be used for medicinally?
anxiety and best used acutely and for a short duration.
What are risks of taking Benzos?
physical dependence, withdrawal and addiction.
What are some traits of Benzo withdrawal?
symptoms tend to be variable and can see any combination of signs and symptoms. No symptoms are unique to Benzo withdrawal and many appear identical to anxiety disorder symptoms.
Symptoms of benzo withdrawal include:
Tachycardia hypertension fever tinnitus nausea diarrhea anorexia agitation anxiety delirium tremor insomnia seizures death
The most sever withdrawal comes from what type of Benzos?
short acting, high potency, benzos
Benzo withdrawal can be prolonged, T Or F
True
What are withdrawal traits of short acting benzos
onset happens within 24 hours
peaks at 3-5 days
lasts 7-21 days
