Pharmacology: Barbiturates and Benzodiazepines

Vocabulary flashcards covering the characteristics, uses, safety profile, drug interactions, and toxicity management of barbiturates and benzodiazepines based on the lecture notes.

Barbiturates

CNS depressants and GABA-A receptor agonists that increase $Cl^-$ influx duration.

Phenobarbital

A barbiturate used for seizures.

Thiopental

A barbiturate used for anesthesia induction.

Barbiturates Safety Index

Low safety index with a small dose gap between therapeutic and lethal doses, leading to them being replaced mostly by benzodiazepines.

Barbiturates Interactions

Induces liver CYP450 enzymes, which increases the metabolism of other drugs such as warfarin and OCPs.

Barbiturates Toxicity Treatment

Has no specific antidote; treated with supportive care, activated charcoal, and dialysis if needed.

Benzodiazepines

GABA-A receptor positive allosteric agents used for conditions such as spasms, alcohol withdrawal, and pre-procedural care.