ANXIOLYTICS

Divya K Y
Lecturer
SQU, Dept of Community&Mental Health Nursing

2017
ANXIOLYTICS OR MINOR TRANQUILIZERS
Commonly used ones

Anti Benzodiazepines Carbamate Azaspirodecan

histamines derivative edione
Hydroxyzine Clonazepam 1.5-20mg Meprobamate Buspirone 15-
100-400mg Diazepam 4-40mg 400-1600mg 60mg
Lorazepam 2-6mg
MECHANISM OF ACTION
Anti anxiety agents acts by enhancing GABA transmission in the brain.
Since GABA is an inhibitory neuro transmitter, it has a calming effect
on the CNS and reduces anxiety.
At high doses it can induce hypnosis (sleep like state)
Note: Buspirone does not depress CNS
 INDICATIONS
Epilepsy
Anxiety
Depression
Phobia
Insomnia
Stress disorder
Sleep disorder
Premedication in anesthesia
CONTRA INDICATIONS
Hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines
Patients taking other CNS Depressants
Pregnancy & Lactation
Glaucoma
Depression with suicidal tendency
Elderly
Hepatic or renal dysfunction
 ADVERSE EFFECTS
Drowsiness
Confusion
Lethargy
Tolerance
Increases symptoms of depression
Orthostatic hypotension
Paradoxical excitement (opposite of the desired effects)
Dry mouth, Nausea, vomiting, blood dyscrasias
Delayed onset of action 10-14 days with buspirone
 NURSES RESPONSIBILITY
Administer with food to minimize gastric irritation
Abrupt withdrawal of the drug may cause insomnia, irritability and seizures,
hence taper the dose and stop it.
Explain about S/E and advice the patient to avoid activities requiring
alertness(driving, operating heavy machines)
Rise slowly from lying or sitting position
Avoid alcohol or other CNS depressants along with BDZ
Instruct the patient not to take any OTC medication
If Parenteral administration is preferred give deep IM or slow I V to prevent
respiratory or cardiac complications.
Prevent extravasations as it can cause phlebitis and venous thrombosis
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Increased effects of antianxiety agents can occur when
taken concomitantly with alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics,
anti depressants, anti psychotics, antihistamines and
disulfiram.
Decreased effects are noted with cigarette smoking and
caffeine consumption.