Benzodiazepines

Pharm

Alprazolam

xanax

Diazepam

Valium

Lorazepam

Ativan

Clonazepam

Klonopin

Temazepam

Restoril

Oxazepam

Serax

Indications/use

-Anxiety/panic disorder

-seizures

-Alcohol with-drawl

-Hypnotic

Can be given IV

Diazepam (valium) and Lorazepam (ativan)

Lorazepam (Ativan) uses

-Serizures

-Alcohol withdrawl

Reversal Agent

Flumazenil

GABA is your momma

it relaxs and inhibits you

Elderly pts liketo keep their benz in the LOT

lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam are recommended in elderly pts or those with liver impairment

the effects lead to

CNS depression, muscle relaxation, and sedation

Side effects MNEMONIC

WASH the Really Dirty benz

W

Weakness

A

Ataxia

S

Somnolence

H

Hypotension

R

Restpiratory depression

D

Dizziness/ lightheadedness

Take with or w/o food?

Take w/ food if it causes stomach upset

What to avoid?

-Driving due to drowsiness, alcohol and opioids

Can I abruptly discontinue?

No taper off slowly to avoid with-drawl symptoms

With-drawl symptoms

anxiety, tachycardia, shakiness, insomnia, muscle pain