Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Hrncic-Causevic, A.
Benzodiazepine als Schlaf- und Beruhigungsmittel
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] Graz Medical University; 2015. pp. 60
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- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Donnerer Josef
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- Abstract:
- Background: Sleep is a relaxation, a physiological process, which is characterized by conversion of the autonomic nervous system. External and internal factors can influence sleep and lead to disturbances of sleep patterns. The most common disorders are difficulty of falling asleep as well as waking up very early. The most important benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine-analogues associated substances are: Diazepam (Valium®), Bromazepam (Lexotanil®), Clobazam (Frisium®), Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol®), Lorazepam (Temesta®), Midazolam (Dormicum®), Oxazepam (Praxiten®), Zopiclone (Somnal®) and Zolpidem (Ivadal®). The effects caused by Benzodiazepines are: anxiolytic, anticonvulsant (anti-spasmodic), muscle-relaxant, sedative (calming) and hypnotic (sleep inducing). Indications: insomnia, neurotic disorders (anxiety disorders, phobias), acute treatment of epileptic seizures, muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal syndrome Side effects like: fatigue, drowsiness, decreased concentration and reaction, dizziness and impaired locomotor coordination are typical ones. Methods: This work is a literature review (PubMed, textbooks, Google, Google Scholar, Medical Media Austria) in which the focus is on insomnia, treatment with benzodiazepines and the addiction, which develops in patients.This thesis is written by means of textbooks and medical journals as well as medical scientific articles. Results and conclusions: Due to their specific pharmacokinetic characteristics, and due to either better hypnotic or anxiolytic action, certain Benzodiazepines are preferably used as sleep medications and others are preferably used as anxiolytic drugs. Benzodiazepines are medications to deal with great caution. They should only be used in acute crises and not for prolonged use, as this may lead to dependence and resistance. The intake should not exceed 4 weeks; the dose should be kept low. During therapy with benzodiazepines, it is necessary to reduce the amount gradually and this should be done under medical supervision