Benzodiazepine pharmacology and central nervous system-mediated effects.

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Griffin CE 3rd, Kaye AM, Bueno FR, Kaye AD

Benzodiazepine pharmacology and central nervous system-mediated effects.

Ochsner J. 2013 Summer;13(2):214-23.

PubMed ID

23789008 [ View in PubMed

]

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Owing to the low therapeutic index of barbiturates, benzodiazepines (BZDs) became popular in this country and worldwide many decades ago for a wide range of conditions. Because of an increased understanding of pharmacology and physiology, the mechanisms of action of many BZDs are now largely understood, and BZDs of varying potency and duration of action have been developed and marketed. Although BZDs have many therapeutic roles and BZD-mediated effects are typically well tolerated in the general population, side effects and toxicity can result in morbidity and mortality for some patients. The elderly; certain subpopulations of patients with lung, liver, or kidney dysfunction; and patients on other classes of medication are especially prone to toxicity. METHODS: This review details the present knowledge about BZD mechanisms of action, drug profiles, clinical actions, and potential side effects. In addition, this review describes numerous types of BZD-mediated central nervous system effects. CONCLUSION: For any patient taking a BZD, the prescribing physician must carefully evaluate the risks and benefits, and higher-risk patients require careful considerations. Clinically appropriate use of BZDs requires prudence and the understanding of pharmacology.

DrugBank Data that Cites this Article

Drugs

Oxazepam

Quazepam

Drug Interactions

• Approved
• Vet approved
• Nutraceutical
• Illicit
• Withdrawn
• Investigational
• Experimental
• All Drugs

Drugs	Interaction
Integrate drug-drug interactions in your software
1,2-Benzodiazepine Lorpiprazole	The risk or severity of sedation can be increased when Lorpiprazole is combined with 1,2-Benzodiazepine.
Alprazolam Lorpiprazole	The risk or severity of sedation can be increased when Lorpiprazole is combined with Alprazolam.
Bromazepam Lorpiprazole	The risk or severity of sedation can be increased when Lorpiprazole is combined with Bromazepam.
Bromazepam Aripiprazole	The risk or severity of sedation and orthostatic hypotension can be increased when Aripiprazole is combined with Bromazepam.
Chlordiazepoxide Lorpiprazole	The risk or severity of sedation can be increased when Lorpiprazole is combined with Chlordiazepoxide.