Barbiturates Overview Lecture Notes

Introduction

• Barbiturates are a class of drugs used to treat seizures and insomnia.
• Remember: Barbiturates = Barbershop (mnemonic).
• Recognizable by names ending in -barbitol (e.g., phenobarbitol, butabarbitol, secobarbitol).

Clinical Uses

• Seizure Treatment:
  • Acts as a CNS depressant to slow down neural activity.
  • Stops the uncontrolled neural activity causing seizures.
• Insomnia Treatment:
  • Causes sedation, leading to drowsiness.
  • Should be taken at night to avoid daytime sleepiness.
• CNS Depressant:
  • Sedation effect means avoid combining with other CNS depressants (e.g., alcohol, opioids).

Side Effects & Risks

• Respiratory Depression:
  • Symbolized by a dusty, broken fan (poor air flow = respiratory depression).
  • Depresses brain activity, reducing respiratory drive.
  • Risk of slowed or stopped breathing in overdoses, which can be fatal.
• Tolerance and Dependence:
  • Symbolized by a loyalty punch card ("buy nine, get one free" concept).
  • Tolerance: Need higher doses over time for the same effect.
  • Dependence: Withdrawal symptoms if the drug is abruptly stopped.

Prescription Considerations

• High Abuse Potential:
  • Not commonly prescribed due to risk of overdose and dependence.
  • Benzodiazepines are preferred for safety.
• Exception Cases:
  • Barbiturates may still be used if benzodiazepines are ineffective.

Recap

• Barbiturates are CNS depressants useful for seizures and insomnia.
• Recognizable by '-barbitol' ending.
• Side effects: sedation, dependence, respiratory depression.
• High abuse potential limits their use.

Conclusion

• Focus on patient safety and consider safer alternatives when possible.
• Stay informed about detailed side effects for exams like the NCLEX.

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