Other Drug Classes

Question 1

What drug classes can be used as anti-anxiolytics?

Answer 1

SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, antihistamines

Question 2

What are some examples of benzodiazepines and what is their mechanism of action?

Answer 2

1. Diazepam, lorazepam

2. Cause an increases release of GABA

Question 3

What are the limitations of benzodiazepines and how are they negated?

Answer 3

1. Side effects - sedating, anterograde memory loss, highly addictive
2. Very unpleasant to detox from
3. As a result, should only be prescribed for 1-2 weeks at lowest possible dose to prevent addiction

Question 4

What is used to treat the antipsychotic side effects of dystonia and pseudoparkinsonism?

Answer 4

Anticholinergics - procyclidine, benztropine

Question 5

What are the side effects of anticholinergics?

Answer 5

Dry mouth, constipation, blurry vision, postural dizziness

Question 6

What treatment is used for alcohol withdrawal?

Answer 6

Benzodiazepines, vitamin B Co-strong and thiamine (Pabrinex)

Question 7

What treatment is used for alcohol cessation support?

Answer 7

Acamprosate (reduces cravings), disulfiram (Antabuse), naltrexone (prevents relapse)

Question 8

Name some Z-drugs?

Answer 8

Zopiclone, zolpidem

Question 9

Name some acetylcholinesterase inhibitors?

Answer 9

Donepezil, rivastigmine, galantamine

Question 10

Name an NMDA antagonist?

Answer 10

Memantine