Benzodiazepine Poisoning

Benzodiazepine Poisoning is a topic covered in the 5-Minute Emergency Consult.

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Basics

Description

  • Potentiates the activity of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the major inhibitory neurotransmitter, by binding to its own specific site
  • Also facilitates GABA binding to its site
  • Results in chloride influx, membrane hyperpolarization, and inhibition of cellular excitation:
    • Benzodiazepines (BZDs) increase the frequency of chloride channel opening.
    • Depresses spinal reflexes and reticular activating system
  • Rapidly absorbed from GI tract:
    • Highly protein bound
    • Large Vd
    • Hepatic metabolism
    • Duration of action is inversely proportional to lipophilicity with highly lipophilic drugs penetrating the CNS more rapidly.
    • Duration of lorazepam > diazepam > midazolam.
    • Synergistic with other sedative–hypnotic medications (e.g., ethanol, barbiturates, propofol)

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Citation

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TY - ELEC T1 - Benzodiazepine Poisoning ID - 307515 Y1 - 2016 PB - 5-Minute Emergency Consult UR - https://emergency.unboundmedicine.com/emergency/view/5-Minute_Emergency_Consult/307515/all/Benzodiazepine_Poisoning ER -