Behavioral Science

Psychopharmacology 167
Which benzodiazepines are indicated
for treatment of status epilepticus,
as they can be given intravenously (IV)?
Why are benzodiazepines safer
pharmacologic agents to use to
treat anxiety than barbiturates?
What is the mechanism of action
of barbiturates?
What is the mechanism of action and
common use of Buspirone?
Which short-acting antianxiety agent
is used to treat insomnia?
What is the most commonly prescribed
class of drugs for the treatment
of depression?
What is the mechanism of action
of SSRIs?
What are the names of commonly
prescribed SSRIs?
What serious side effects have a greater
incidence associated with the SSRI
Paroxetine?
What caution should you take while
using SSRIs in children and adolescents?
Diazepam and lorazepam
Less potential for abuse
Higher therapeutic index
Barbiturates target the GABA A chloride
channel receptor and its action on
chloride entry into the cell, which
results in membrane hyperpolarization.
There is an increase in the duration of
the chloride channel opening and a
decrease in neuron excitability.
It is a 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A
(5-HT 1A ) (serotonin) agonist that may be
used to treat anxiety, particularly useful
in those for whom benzodiazepine
therapy is contraindicated (the elderly
and those with a history of substance
abuse).
Zolpidem tartrate
SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake
inhibitors)
They work by inhibiting neuronal
uptake of serotonin, thereby increasing
the synaptic concentration of serotonin.
Fluoxetine
Fluvoxamine
Paroxetine
Sertraline
Citaprolam
Anticholinergic effects, sexual
dysfunction, and withdrawal syndrome
There is a black box warning about
increased suicidal thoughts in patients