Which action best describes the main effect of a therapeutic dose of a benzodiazepine such as lorazepam?
Correct answer: B. It reduces anxiety and causes central nervous system depression
- A. It produces analgesia without affecting alertness
- B. It reduces anxiety and causes central nervous system depression
- C. It causes general anaesthesia with complete unconsciousness
- D. It increases alertness by stimulating the cerebral cortex
Explanation
Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of GABA and produce anxiolysis, sedation, muscle relaxation and anticonvulsant effects. They are not primary analgesics, and a usual therapeutic dose does not necessarily cause complete unconsciousness.
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About Analgesics and CNS Drugs
This area covers opioid and non-opioid analgesics, local anaesthetics, sedatives, anxiolytics, antidepressants, antipsychotics, antiepileptics and drugs for Parkinsonism. It examines therapeutic actions, dependence, respiratory depression, extrapyramidal effects, serotonin related toxicity and the distinction between pain relief, sedation and loss of consciousness.
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