Why did benzodiazepines generally replace barbiturates in the ...

[EAugust]

Why did benzodiazepines generally replace barbiturates in the treatment of insomnia?
 
  What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Describe two major pharmacological differences between alcohol and the short acting benzodiazepines.
 
  What will be an ideal response?

[scikid]

Answer to Question 1

Because benzodiazepines have much higher therapeutic indexes, induce less disruptive effects on REM sleep, have less psychological dependence potential, and are less likely to induce severe physical dependence and withdrawal effects with chronic use.

Answer to Question 2

Alcohol has a generalized action on all neurons because it fluidizes the neuronal membranes and exerts effects on a variety of neurotransmitters systems, e.g., NMDA and GABA, whereas benzodiazepines bind specifically to GABA receptors. Alcohol has a relatively low therapeutic index and exerts toxic effects on numerous organs of the body, e.g., liver, brain, whereas benzodiazepines have a relatively high therapeutic index and exerts minimal toxic effects on the body. Alcohol tends to elevate P450 enzymes, while benzodiazepines tend not to. Alcohol tends to suppress REM sleep, whereas benzodiazepines tend to interfere with deeper stages of sleep.