Benzodiazepines mechanism of action
Benzodiazepines and GABA receptors: an animation on their mechanism of action Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) is an inhibiting neurotransmitter that is present on human brains. As shown in the animation, gamma amino butyric acid promotes opening of a postsynaptic receptor, the GABA-A receptor. This opening leads to a increased conductance to cloride ions, which […]
MCQs for USMLE review on psychopharmacology: antipsychotics, benzodiazepines, antidepressants and lithium
These pharmacology MCQs from the UMKC School of Medicine have a different degree of difficulty, but are useful to review pharmacology of psychotropics. Psychotropics Item Number: 11667 correct answer: 4 category: Psychotropics 1. The symptoms of tardive dyskinesia will acutely improve with: 1. administration of diphenhydramine 2. administration of amantadine 3. administration of bromocriptine 4. […]
Risk of midazolam overdose: NHS alert
This is a rapid response report from the National Patient Safety Agency (A branch of NHS) about the risk of midazolam (Dormicum, Hypnovel, Midacum and Versed) overdose Reducing risk of overdose with midazolam injection in adults Issue Some adult patients are being overdosed with midazolam injection when used for conscious sedation. TheĀ presentation of high strength […]
Mnemonic to remember which benzodiazepines don’t have hepatic metabolism
Benzodiazepines: ones not metabolized by the liver (safe to use in liver failure) LOT: Lorazepam Oxazepam Temazepam ThanksĀ to MedExcel Remember to check the animation on the mechanism of action of benzodiazepines.
Zolpidem, zoplicone and zaleplon (z-drugs) side effects profile: Australian Prescriber press release
Hypnotic hazards and effects of z-drugs immeasurable “It is difficult to know the extent of use and adverse effects of zolpidem and other z-drugs (zopiclone and zaleplon) because they have never been listed on the Australian Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, senior Sleep Disorders Physician Dr Les Olson writes in the latest edition of Australian Prescriber.