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Can benzodiazepines or barbiturates alone cause an inhibitory effect on neurons? Why?

Can benzodiazepines or barbiturates alone cause an inhibitory effect on neurons? Why?

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...
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**Question: Can benzodiazepines or barbiturates alone cause an inhibitory effect on neurons? Why?** This question explores the mechanisms through which benzodiazepines and barbiturates affect neuronal activity. Both of these drugs interact with the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter system, which is the primary inhibitory system in the brain. However, their actions differ slightly: 1. **Benzodiazepines** enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA by binding to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor, which increases the frequency of chloride channel opening events. This results in hyperpolarization of the neuron, making it less likely to fire action potentials. 2. **Barbiturates** also enhance GABA activity but have a slightly different mechanism. They increase the duration that the chloride channel is open, which can result in a stronger inhibitory effect. At high doses, barbiturates can directly activate the GABA-A receptor even in the absence of GABA. Understanding these mechanisms explains why both drugs enhance inhibition in the central nervous system but also highlights the potential for different effects and uses in clinical settings.
Transcribed Image Text:**Question: Can benzodiazepines or barbiturates alone cause an inhibitory effect on neurons? Why?** This question explores the mechanisms through which benzodiazepines and barbiturates affect neuronal activity. Both of these drugs interact with the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) neurotransmitter system, which is the primary inhibitory system in the brain. However, their actions differ slightly: 1. **Benzodiazepines** enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA by binding to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor, which increases the frequency of chloride channel opening events. This results in hyperpolarization of the neuron, making it less likely to fire action potentials. 2. **Barbiturates** also enhance GABA activity but have a slightly different mechanism. They increase the duration that the chloride channel is open, which can result in a stronger inhibitory effect. At high doses, barbiturates can directly activate the GABA-A receptor even in the absence of GABA. Understanding these mechanisms explains why both drugs enhance inhibition in the central nervous system but also highlights the potential for different effects and uses in clinical settings.
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