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Which medications enhance GABA activity and how are they used?
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Benzodiazepines, ethanol, and barbiturates enhance GABA activity and are used to treat seizures and anxiety.
What role does serotonin play in anxiety?
Serotonin helps regulate mood and reduce anxiety, making it a target for medications treating anxiety disorders.
What might hinder the production of GABA?
A deficiency in vitamin B6 or certain medications can hinder GABA production, potentially leading to high glutamate levels and seizures.
What is the primary role of GABA in the brain?
GABA is the major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain, responsible for reducing neuronal excitability.
How is GABA synthesized in the brain?
GABA is synthesized from glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, with the assistance of vitamin B6.
Why might lorazepam, oxazepam, or temazepam be preferred in elderly patients?
These benzodiazepines are water-soluble and have no active metabolites, reducing the risk of adverse effects in the elderly.
How do norepinephrine levels change during anxiety?
Norepinephrine levels are elevated during anxiety, which contributes to symptoms of anxiety disorders.
What non-pharmacologic therapies can complement pharmacotherapy for anxiety?
Therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and stress-management techniques can complement medication treatment for anxiety.
Explain the mechanism by which benzodiazepines affect GABA receptors.
Benzodiazepines increase the affinity of GABA for GABA-A receptors, enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA.
What is flumazenil and when is it used?
Flumazenil is an antidote used for benzodiazepine overdose, though it must be used cautiously in chronic users.
How do SSRIs and SNRIs manage chronic anxiety?
SSRIs and SNRIs manage chronic anxiety by altering serotonin and norepinephrine levels; their benefits can take weeks to fully manifest.
Describe the function of GABA-A receptors.
GABA-A receptors are inhibitory and open chloride channels that hyperpolarize postsynaptic neurons, reducing their activity.
What clinical effects are associated with increased GABA activity?
Increased GABA activity leads to decreased arousal, sedation, and anxiolysis (reduction in anxiety).
What are the risks associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal?
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can cause seizures and requires careful tapering to prevent severe effects.
What is the role of beta blockers in anxiety treatment?
Beta-blockers are used to manage physical symptoms of anxiety, especially in social or performance scenarios.
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