Question

Write short note on Benzodiazepines. (Pharmacology - lll)

Answer 1

Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that work in the central nervous system and are used for a variety of medical conditions, such as anxiety, seizures, and for alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines appear to work by blocking excessive activity of nerves in the brain and other areas in the central nervous system. As a class, benzodiazepines are similar in how they work in the brain but have different potencies and durations of actions. Because of this, some benzodiazepines work better than others in the treatment of particular conditions. Common examples of benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium) and lorazepam (Ativan).

Common benzodiazepine uses:

for sleep

to induce relaxation and loss of memory of medical procedures or surgery

to reduce anxiety (anxiolytic)

panic disorders

to treat or prevent seizures

alcohol withdrawal treatment

muscle relaxant