Anxiolytic drugs

Question 1

The mechanisms behind anxiety ? (at neuro level)

• ## which pathway?

Answer 1

Stress response is regulated by the hypothalamus pituitary adrenal axis (HPA axis) - which releases cortisol

At normal level - amygdala and hippocampus feed into the HPA axis

Amygdala : EXCITES the HPA axis and increases cortisol release

High cortisol feeds back onto the hippocampus - resulting in suppression of the HPA axis and a REDUCTION in cortisol levels

AMYGDALA HYPERACTIVTY - linked to anxiety disorders

HIPPOCAMPUS UNDERACTIVITY - linked to anxiety disorders

Question 2

Anxioloytics treat?

Answer 2

Anxiety disroders

Question 3

Hypnotics treat?

Answer 3

Insomnia (which can be triggered by anxiety)

Question 4

What action do anxiolytics and hypnotics have on the CNS?

Answer 4

CNS depressant drugs - anxiolytics and hypnotics

Low dose : anxiolytic

High dose: sedation and sleep

Higher dose; sedation

Toxic dose: risk of coma, respiratory depression

Question 5

Which drugs are ineffective in anxiety states?

Answer 5

Z drugs