Barbiturates are often avoided because of which of the following effects?
1)High risk of abuse
2)Rapid development of tolerance
3)Increased seizure activity
4)High risk of addiction
5)Toxic potential

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because of their toxic potential and rapid development of tolerance,barbiturates have largely been replaced by benzodiazepines except for a few specialized uses.Several ultra-short-acting barbiturates are used for anesthetic induction (thiopental,thiamylal,and methohexital),as hypnotics (pentobarbital and secobarbital),and for seizure control and prophylaxis (phenobarbital).Use of barbiturates as hypnotics is limited by rapid development of tolerance and reduction in the quality of sleep (decreased amount of REM sleep).They are potent inducers of the CYP450 drug-metabolizing system that can alter the levels of many other drugs.Although many of the therapeutic effects of barbiturates are mediated by a specific receptor at the F1F1F1S1F1F1F10-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-mediated inhibitory receptor,they have widespread depressive effects on neuron activity.Intentional or accidental overdose results in respiratory arrest and cardiovascular collapse because of depression of the brain control center.This drug class also carries a high risk of addiction and abuse.Severe withdrawal symptoms,including seizures,occur after abruptly stopping long-term use of barbiturates.

Barbiturates Are Often Avoided Because of Which of the Following