Current views on the mechanism of action of the benzodiazepines
Straughan, D.W.
Archivos de Farmacologia Y Toxicologia 3(1): 3-22
1977
ISSN/ISBN: 0304-8616 PMID: 197895 Document Number: 111772
This review discusses recent research on the actions of the benzodiazepines [anxiolytics, hypnotics, anticonvulsants for epilepsy] at the neuronal level and on neurotransmitter mechanisms in particular. A study of benzodiazepines and central transmitters seems justified since recent studies show that thioxanthene neuroleptics and probably butyrophenones act essentially through a block of central dopamine receptors, while the tricyclic antidepressants act probably through block of the neuronal reuptake mechanisms for monamines. The possible neurotransmitter systems or receptors which might be affected by the benzodiazepines and which are discussed in this review are listed. It is possible that such an approach is too simplistic as the basic action of the benzodiazepines might be on some fundamental intracellular step leading indirectly to changes in synaptic transmission for several neurotransmitters. Having defined effects at the neuronal level in experimental animal studies one should consider the extent to which such effects are primary or secondary, occur with therapeutic doses and provide an explanation for the characteristic behavioral actions in animals and therapeutic uses in man. It should also be possible to explain the distinct pharmacological profiles of the benzodiazepines by differences in the cellular effects produced by them as compared with, e.g. the barbiturates.