CNS Depressants

What is the common suffix in the names of Benzodiazepines?

-pam (e.g., lorazepam) and -lam (e.g., alprazolam).

How do Benzodiazepines work in the brain?

They enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, resulting in central nervous system (CNS) depression.

What are three common medical uses for Benzodiazepines?

1. Anxiety

2. Seizures

3. Insomnia

4. Alcohol withdrawal

What is the most dangerous side effect of Benzodiazepines, especially when mixed with other depressants?

Respiratory Depression

What are some contraindications you should look out for in Benzodiazepines?

1. pregnancy

2. sleep apnea

3. respiratory depression

4. organic brain disease

Who should Benzodiazepines be used in caution by people with?

1. history of substance use

2. disorder, liver dysfunction and/or kidney failure

3. older adults

Why must Benzodiazepines be used with extreme caution in older adults?

They can cause memory difficulties, excessive sedation, and increase the risk of falls.

• require lower doses

What are some side effects of Benzodiazepines? 

1. CNS depression: paradoxical response (which can look like insomnia, excitation, euphoria, anxiety, and rage)

2. N/V

3. anorexia

4. physical dependence

What is the specific antidote for Benzodiazepine overdose/toxicity?

Flumazenil.

What is a common example of a Non-Benzodiazepine sleep medication?

Zolpidem

How do Non-Benzodiazepines like Zolpidem work?

They enhance the action of GABA, similar to benzodiazepines, to promote sleep.

What is the main indication for Non-Benzodiazepines?

Short-term management of insomnia.

What are side effects of Non-Benzodiazepines?

1. light headedness, daytime sleepiness, headache

Sleep-related complex behaviors (e.g., sleep-walking, sleep-driving, or sleep-eating).

What must patients avoid while taking Non-Benzodiazepines?

Alcohol and other CNS depressants, as this combination can cause severe sedation and respiratory depression. 

What are the Contraindications of Non-Benzodiazepines?

Pregnancy

• Use in caution: older adults, impaired kidney, liver, or respiratory function

What are the three most important patient teaching points?

1. Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants.

2. Do not stop abruptly; taper to avoid withdrawal.

3. Avoid hazardous activities like driving while taking the medication.

What is a key guideline for administering these drugs for insomnia?

They are recommended for short-term use only (3-4 weeks) due to the high risk of tolerance and addiction.

Why must sedative-hypnotics be used with extreme caution in children?

Their response is unpredictable, and they must be monitored for paradoxical CNS effects like irritability and hyperactivity.

What are two key nursing actions when giving sedative-hypnotics to an older adult?

1. Use reduced doses (they are more susceptible to CNS side effects).

2. Implement safety precautions (e.g., fall risk protocols) due to sedation and dizziness