Benzodiazepines
Background
- A Benzodiazepine is a GABA receptor agonist.
- Binding results in inhibition of neuronal firing
- High-risk geriatric medication!
Table
| Generic (Trade Name) | Equivalent Oral Dose | Onset (minutes) | Duration (hours) |
| Alprazolam (Xanax) | 0.5mg | 15-30 | 6-12 |
| Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) | 25mg | 30-60 | 24-48 |
| Diazepam (Valium) | 5mg | 2-5 (IV) | 6-12 |
| Flurazepam (Dalmane) | 15mg | 15-60 | 24-48 |
| Lorazepam (Ativan) | 1mg | 5-20(IV); 15-30 (IM) | 6-8 |
| Midazolam (Versed) | 5mg | 15(IM) | 1-2 |
| Oxazepam (Serax) | 15mg | 30-60 | 6-8 |
| Temazepam (Restoril) | 15mg | 30 | 2-4 |
Uses
- Sedation
- Seizures
- Alcohol Withdrawal
- Panic disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Muscle Spasms