CNS Depressants: Barbiturates, Benzodiazepines and non-benzodiazepines

Question 1

phenobarbital

Answer 1

• *barbiturate (sedation)
• most commonly prescribed barbiturate
• long acting to prevent tonic-clonic and fever induced seizures
• has been used for hyperbilirubinemia in neonates

Question 2

diazepam (Valium)

Answer 2

• *benzodiazepine (anxiolytic drug)

- for anxiety, procedural sedation and anesthesia adjunct, anticonvulsant, skeletal muscle relaxation

Question 3

midazolam (Versed)

Answer 3

• *benzodiazepine (anxiolytic drug)
• preoperative – moderate sedation
• causes: amnesia, anxiolysis, sedation

Question 4

zolpidem (Ambien)

Answer 4

• *non-benzodiazepine
• short acting hypnotic
• short half life and no active metabolites = no daytime drowsiness
• controlled release form – best for insomnia pts
• AVOID GRAPEFRUIT = causes a prolonged effect, increases effect and toxicity