Final answer:
The use of high-dose barbiturates in patients with increased ICP typically results in a decrease in cerebral metabolism. This helps to manage brain swelling by reducing the brain's metabolic demands, although it does not directly target edema or cause osmotic effects.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient with increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is prescribed a high dose of barbiturates, the anticipated outcome is a decrease in cerebral metabolism. This is because barbiturates are central nervous system depressants that can lead to a reduction in the metabolic demands of brain tissue. Consequently, this helps to lower ICP by reducing the metabolic rate of the brain, which can also help to manage potential brain swelling.
It is important to note that while barbiturates lower cerebral metabolism, they do not cause a massive movement of water out of brain cells, nor directly reduce vasogenic edema, or cause plasma expansion and osmotic effect. Instead, other medications or treatments, like osmotic diuretics such as mannitol, may be used to address these specific outcomes.
Moreover, while barbiturates can be effective in acute management, their use carries risks due to potential for addiction and overdose, which can lead to serious consequences including respiratory depression, coma, or death.