Drugs

Question 1

Benzodiazepines (Bz’s)

Answer 1

. Enhance action of a neurotransmitter (GABA) - inhibits activity of neurons in most areas of the brain
. Allows more chlorine ions to enter neurons - more difficult for other neurotransmitters to stimulate them
^ Bz’s boost this action - allowing even greater amount of chlorine ions
- reduces effect of exciatory neurotransmitters and makes a person calmer

Question 2

Eval of Bz’s (Work quickly)

Answer 2

Useful in cases of emergency but unsuitable for long term - very addictive (not prescribed for longer than 4 weeks)
. Patient can also develop a tolerance which increases the risk of side effects

Question 3

Eval of Bz’s (research support)

Answer 3

Davidson = 78% of patients suffering with social anxiety treated with Bz’s showed improvement wheres only 20% of participants with the placebos showed improvement

Question 4

Beta Blockers

Answer 4

. When accute stress response occurs, adrenal medulla produces adrenaline - transported to heart where it stimulates beta receptors thus increasing heart rate and blood pressure
. Beta blockers are used to block receptors and stop adrenaline having an effect

Question 5

Eval of Beta Blockers (side effects)
and (effective)

Answer 5

. Don’t have serious side effects but are unsuitable for people who suffer from diabetes or depression
(do have side effects such as nausea and blurred vision)

. Effective and work rapidly - helpful if effects of stress are severe and rapid relief is needed

Question 6

Overall Evaluation

Answer 6

. Drugs are cost effective and easy to take

. Short term solution as once drugs are stopped symptoms reappear if causes are not dealt with
- CA = can improve patients symptoms enough for them to start therapies

. Drugs might decrease the amount of time people take in sick leave thus being beneficial to the economy