Alprazolam belongs to one of the following classifications:

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Explanation

Alprazolam is a short-acting drug belonging to the benzodiazepine class, primarily prescribed for the management of anxiety and panic disorders.
Its mechanism of action involves enhancing the effects of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the central nervous system.
This action on GABA receptors produces a calming (anxiolytic), sedative, and muscle-relaxant effect, which is the defining characteristic of the benzodiazepine class.

Option B: Non-benzodiazepines, such as zolpidem ('Z-drugs'), have a different chemical structure from benzodiazepines, although they may act on similar GABA receptors.
Option C: Antidepressants, such as SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine) or SNRIs, primarily work by altering levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin and norepinephrine, not GABA.
Option D: Antipsychotic medications, such as haloperidol or olanzapine, primarily target dopamine receptors to manage symptoms of psychosis.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Pharmacological classification of Alprazolam as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must assess for signs of CNS depression, including sedation, dizziness, and respiratory depression, and implement safety measures like fall precautions, especially in older adults.
Patient education is a critical nursing responsibility. This includes warning against the use of alcohol or other CNS depressants and explaining that the medication should never be stopped abruptly due to the risk of severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.
What if? If a patient has a history of substance abuse, a benzodiazepine like alprazolam would be a high-risk choice due to its potential for dependence. A safer alternative, such as an SSRI antidepressant or buspirone, would likely be prescribed for anxiety.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of pharmacology.
First, identify the key term in the question, which is 'Alprazolam'.
Next, recall the major classes of psychotropic medications. Alprazolam, with the common brand name Xanax, is a widely known anxiolytic.
Evaluate the given options. 'Benzodiazepines' is a specific drug class. The other options (Non-benzodiazepines, Anti-depressant, Anti-psychotic) are also distinct drug classes.
Match the drug to its correct classification. Alprazolam is a classic example of a benzodiazepine.
Therefore, select the option that correctly identifies this classification.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Guide to Mental Health & PSYCHIATRIC NURSING R Sreevani— Part 2 (pp 290-564 of 579) p. 254-256

E6 Pharmacology Nursing Lilley 11e Part 1 p. 270-272

E6 Pharmacology Katzung 16e p. 595-597

Practise the full IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.