Author Question: The half-life of a benzodiazepine drug is 20 hours for a young adult, but for an older adult it is ... (Read 56 times)

bucstennis@aim.com · **on:** Jul 19, 2018

The half-life of a benzodiazepine drug is 20 hours for a young adult, but for an older adult it is likely to be

a. 10 hours.
b. 30 hours.
c. 40 hours.
d. 80 hours.

Question 2

A patient had five emergency room visits in the past month and reports, I feel so nervous

I think I'm having heart attacks. The patient is diagnosed with panic attacks. Which comment by the nurse shows understanding of treatment for panic attacks?
a. SSRI antidepressants are often helpful for long-term treatment and prevention of panic attacks.
b. Benzodiazepine tranquilizers are therapeutic for long-term treatment and prevention of panic attacks.
c. No medications are particularly helpful for panic attacks. Let's work on some strategies to help you manage your fears.
d. Panic attacks result from an instability of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. Meditation will be more helpful than drugs.

nanny · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 19, 2018

Answer to Question 1

D
Because of decreased liver size and function in older adults, the half-life of benzodiazepines is markedly lengthened. Benzodiazepines with long half-lives are unsuitable for older adults.

Answer to Question 2

A
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are approved for panic disorder and might be the most effective and safest agents for prophylaxis and long-term treatment. Benzodiazepines are effective during a panic attack but should not be used for long-term treatment because of the abuse and dependence potentials. It's important that the nurse show compassion for the patient's distress. Meditation may help overall, but not during panic attacks.