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Questions and Answers
A patient is prescribed diazepam for anxiety. Which mechanism of action explains how this drug achieves its therapeutic effect?
A patient is prescribed diazepam for anxiety. Which mechanism of action explains how this drug achieves its therapeutic effect?
- Blocking the reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability in the synaptic cleft.
- Directly stimulating dopamine receptors to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Enhancing the effects of acetylcholine in the central nervous system.
- Increasing the effectiveness of GABA in the limbic system and reticular activating system (RAS). (correct)
A patient with a history of alcohol abuse is admitted for detoxification. Which benzodiazepine would be most appropriate, considering the patient’s history and the drug's pharmacokinetic properties?
A patient with a history of alcohol abuse is admitted for detoxification. Which benzodiazepine would be most appropriate, considering the patient’s history and the drug's pharmacokinetic properties?
- Midazolam, given its strong sedative effects and quick elimination.
- Lorazepam because it has a shorter half-life and is less affected by liver dysfunction. (correct)
- Diazepam because it is rapidly metabolized.
- Alprazolam due to its rapid onset of action.
A pregnant patient reports experiencing severe anxiety. What is the primary concern regarding the use of benzodiazepines during pregnancy?
A pregnant patient reports experiencing severe anxiety. What is the primary concern regarding the use of benzodiazepines during pregnancy?
- Risk of the drug crossing the placenta and causing neonatal withdrawal symptoms. (correct)
- Increased risk of maternal hypertension and preeclampsia.
- Decreased effectiveness of the drug due to altered maternal metabolism.
- Potential for the development of physical dependence in the mother only.
A patient taking lorazepam reports feeling unusually tired and confused. They also take an antihistamine for allergies. What drug interaction is most likely contributing to these symptoms?
A patient taking lorazepam reports feeling unusually tired and confused. They also take an antihistamine for allergies. What drug interaction is most likely contributing to these symptoms?
An elderly patient is prescribed clonazepam for restless leg syndrome. Which potential side effect poses the greatest risk for this patient population?
An elderly patient is prescribed clonazepam for restless leg syndrome. Which potential side effect poses the greatest risk for this patient population?
Flashcards
Benzodiazepines: Action
Benzodiazepines: Action
Enhance GABA's effect in the limbic system and RAS, leading to anxiolytic and hypnotic effects.
Common Benzodiazepines
Common Benzodiazepines
Diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam, clonazepam, midazolam. Often end in -zepam or -zolam.
Benzodiazepines: Uses
Benzodiazepines: Uses
Anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, panic, restless legs, seizures, insomnia.
Benzodiazepines: Absorption
Benzodiazepines: Absorption
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Benzodiazepines: Cautions
Benzodiazepines: Cautions
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Study Notes
- Benzodiazepines affect the limbic system and the RAS, enhancing GABA's effectiveness, resulting in anxiolytic and hypnotic effects.
- Common examples include Diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam, clonazepam, and midazolam (ZEPAM, ZOLAM).
- These are indicated for anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal, panic disorders, restless leg syndrome, seizure disorders, and insomnia.
- They are well-absorbed from the GI tract, peaking in 30 minutes to 2 hours, and can cross the placenta and enter breast milk.
- Contraindications include psychosis, acute narrow-angle glaucoma, shock, coma, acute alcohol intoxication, and pregnancy.
- Common adverse effects include drowsiness, sedation, lethargy, blurred vision, headaches, apathy, light-headedness, amnesia, confusion, and paradoxical reactions.
- Concurrent use with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, can lead to significant drug interactions.
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Description
Benzodiazepines enhance GABA's effects, impacting the limbic system and RAS, leading to anxiolytic and hypnotic results. Common examples include diazepam and lorazepam. They are used for anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and insomnia but are contraindicated in certain conditions like psychosis and pregnancy.
