Which adverse effects are associated with benzodiazepines?

Prepare for the Nursing Across the Lifespan Exam 2. Study through flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations. Enhance your understanding of nursing responsibilities and practices from birth to old age. Get exam-ready with focused preparation!

Multiple Choice

Which adverse effects are associated with benzodiazepines?

Explanation:
Benzodiazepines cause central nervous system depression by enhancing GABA activity, so the most common and clinically important adverse effects are sedation and drowsiness, impaired coordination, and cognitive slowing. In particular, this CNS depressant effect increases the risk of falls and can lead to delirium or confusion in older adults; mood changes can include depressive symptoms. These effects together—sedation, falls, delirium, and depression—are the ones most commonly associated with benzodiazepine use. Hypertension, hyperglycemia, and weight loss are not typical direct adverse effects of benzodiazepines.

Benzodiazepines cause central nervous system depression by enhancing GABA activity, so the most common and clinically important adverse effects are sedation and drowsiness, impaired coordination, and cognitive slowing. In particular, this CNS depressant effect increases the risk of falls and can lead to delirium or confusion in older adults; mood changes can include depressive symptoms. These effects together—sedation, falls, delirium, and depression—are the ones most commonly associated with benzodiazepine use.

Hypertension, hyperglycemia, and weight loss are not typical direct adverse effects of benzodiazepines.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy