1,4-Benzodiazepines, antiemetic action

The benzodiazepine, lorazepam, acts allosterically on GABAa receptors to facilitate the actions of GABA. Lorazepam has some antiemetic activity in cancer chemotherapy. When used in combination therapy, it does not appear to add to antiemetic control but may contribute to a reduction in anxiety. 

Medications for symptomatic relief from vertigo consist of antiemetics, benzodiazepines and antihistamines. They are all mostly aimed at the psychological consequences of dizziness and can all have highly unfavourable side effects, for example, sedation, anticholinergic effects and insomnia. The psychological consequences of dizziness in elderly should rather be treated with information about the condition, supportive help actions and increased social activities, than with drugs. 

Mechanism of Action A benzodiazepine that enhances the action of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid in the CNS, affecting memory as well as motor, sensory, and cognitive function. Therapeutic Effect Produces anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, sedative, muscle relaxant, and antiemetic effects. 

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