cns depressants

Answer 1

Question: Can you tell me about Gabapentin?
Answer:

Class: Anticonvulsant (CD 3)

Mechanism:

Enters the brain and prevents seizures without altering GABA function

Binds to alpha-2-delta subunit → reduces calcium influx, leading to decreased release of excitatory neurotransmitters (glutamate and substance P)

Use:

Focal seizures

Neuropathic pain

Side Effects:

Common: Anxiety, constipation, diarrhea

Serious: Renal function issues (monitor for renal impairment)

Important Note:

Monitor renal function

Answer 2

Question: Can you tell me about Pregabalin?
Answer:

Class: Anticonvulsant (CNS Depressant)

Mechanism:

Binds to calcium channels → prevents the release of glutamate and substance P

Use:

Peripheral and central neuropathic pain

Adjunctive therapy for seizures

Anxiety

Side Effects:

Common: Vomiting, weight changes, confusion

Serious: Arrhythmias

Important Note:

Monitor for weight changes and confusion

Answer 3

Question: Can you tell me about Fentanyl?
Answer:

Class: Opioid

Mechanism:

Binds and stimulates mu receptors → reduces calcium influx, altering neurotransmitter release

Use:

Chronic pain management

Side Effects:

Common: Arrhythmias, confusion, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth

Serious: Respiratory depression (high doses), palpitations, euphoria, hallucinations

Risk: Dependence and addiction → overdose risk

Important Note:

High risk for overdose and dependence

Answer 4

Question: Can you tell me about Diazepam and Chlordiazepoxide?
Answer:

Class: Benzodiazepines - Hypnotic and Anxiolytic (Sedative)

Mechanism:

Increases chloride influx into the GABA receptor → hyperpolarizes the receptor, increasing inhibition

Use:

Short-term treatment for severe anxiety

Muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal, insomnia, social phobia, premedication for minor surgeries, seizure management

Side Effects:

Common: Anxiety, confusion (especially in the elderly), depression, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, hypotension, mood changes

Important Note:

Typically used for short-term relief (2–4 weeks)

Caution in elderly patients due to risk of confusion and sedation

Answer 5

Question: Can you tell me about Phenobarbital, Primidone, and Thiopental?
Answer:

Class: Barbiturates

Mechanism:

Act on GABA receptors → induce inhibition and reduce seizure activity

Selective anticonvulsant

Use:

Treatment for all forms of epilepsy (except absence seizures)

Side Effects:

Common: Drowsiness, visual impairment, vomiting

Important: Monitor serum levels to avoid toxicity

Important Note:

Regular monitoring of serum levels required