Question

a client with panic disorder is taking alprazolam 1 mg po three times daily. the nurse understands that this medication is effective in blocking the symptoms of panic because of its specific action on which neurotransmitter?

Answer 1

Gamma amino-butyric acid, or GABA

Step-by-step explanation:

Alprazolam (or brand name Xanax) is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat general anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and depression-associated anxiety. The medication binds to inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma amino-butyric acid (GABA) receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), lessening the body's nerve cells' ability to interact with stimuli, producing anxiolytic effects, sedation, CNS depression, muscle relaxation, and a sense of calm in the patient. All of these effects temper the patient's symptoms of panic disorder as well as decreases the frequency and severity of panic attack events.