A patient is prescribed a benzodiazepine for alcohol withdrawal. The provider understands that this drug is effective because of what associated action?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Benzodiazepines are effective in treating alcohol withdrawal because they act on the GABA neurotransmitter system, similar to alcohol, which leads to a cross-dependence effect. This means that benzodiazepines can mitigate withdrawal symptoms by acting on the same pathways in the brain that are affected by alcohol, providing a smoother transition and reducing the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms like seizures.

A Patient Is Prescribed a Benzodiazepine for Alcohol Withdrawal