BZs cross placental barrier and are found in mothers milk. Benzodiazepines have a relatively quite high therapeutic index. It is very difficult to commit suicide with an overdose of benzodiazepines. Pharmacology of Barbiturates A. CNS effects of barbiturates 1. Remember thiopental as a intravenous anesthetic 2.
Some barbiturates are potent anticonvulsants.
Remember phenobarbital as a long acting anticonvulsant 3. Barbiturates are not analgesics. They do not block sensation until consciousness is lost. In fact they can increase sensivity to pain. Barbiturates are potent respiratory depressants.