Cornell Notes: Anxiolytics

Cues

• Classification of Anxiety Disorders
• Anxiolytics Overview
• Benzodiazepines
• Buspirone

Notes

Classification of Anxiety Disorders

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Exaggerated autonomic response, irritability, difficulty concentrating, insomnia.
• Panic Disorder: Autonomic symptoms, hot flashes, fear of dying or going crazy.
• Social Phobia: Fear of public speaking, writing, or eating.
• Simple Phobia: Phobias related to heights, animals, driving, air travel.
• Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Recurrent obsessions and compulsions causing distress.

Anxiolytics Overview

• Anxiety is a state of tension or apprehension; physical symptoms similar to fear.
• Severe anxiety may require antianxiety drugs (anxiolytics).
• Benzodiazepines are the most commonly used anxiolytics, safer and more effective than barbiturates.

Benzodiazepines

• Mechanism of action involves GABA receptors; enhances GABA effects, leading to inhibition of action potentials.
• Clinical effects correlate with binding affinity to GABA receptors.
• Therapeutic uses: anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, seizures, sleep disorders.
• Dependence can develop; withdrawal symptoms may occur upon discontinuation.
• Common side effects include drowsiness and confusion.

Buspirone

• Partial agonist for serotonin 5-HT1A receptors.
• Advantages: No physical dependence, less sedation, no interaction with alcohol.
• Disadvantages: Slow onset (1-2 weeks), short half-life (2.5h).

Summary

Anxiolytics, particularly benzodiazepines, are key treatments for anxiety disorders, providing relief by enhancing GABA activity in the CNS. They are preferred over older treatments due to their safety profile. Buspirone offers a non-benzodiazepine option with a different mechanism and fewer dependency risks, though it takes longer to take effect.