Brain and mood
Benzodiazepines
Used for
Anxiety, panic, seizures, alcohol withdrawal
How it works
Boost GABA, the brain's calming signal.
Watch for
Drowsiness and dependence. Dangerous with opioids or alcohol. Controlled substances (C-IV).
- Name clue
- -azepam or -azolam
- Examples
- alprazolam (Xanax)
- lorazepam (Ativan)
- clonazepam (Klonopin)
- diazepam (Valium)
More in brain and mood
- SSRIsDepression, anxiety
- SNRIsDepression, anxiety, nerve pain
- Tricyclic antidepressantsNerve pain, migraine prevention; older depression drugs
- Atypical antidepressantsDepression; some for quitting smoking or sleep
- Sleep aids ("Z-drugs")Trouble falling asleep (insomnia)
- BarbituratesSeizures; tension headaches (butalbital)
- AnticonvulsantsSeizures; some for nerve pain, migraine or mood
- Mood stabilizersBipolar disorder
- Atypical antipsychoticsSchizophrenia, bipolar disorder
- CNS stimulantsADHD, narcolepsy
A study and reference aid. Follow the product labeling and your pharmacist for anything about a patient's medicine.
Studying for the PTCE?
Drug classes are a big part of the Medications domain. Gutta's lessons and practice questions cover them, with an explanation for every answer.
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