What structural property of alprazolam has been cited in discussion of its differntial pharmacological effects when compared with other benzodiazepines?
Alprazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine with a benzodiazepine receptor affinity roughly 4 times that of diazepam. It is an intermediate acting benzodiazepine with an elimination half life of 12 to 15 hours, but can be significantly longer in the elderly population. The triazolo moiety may confer a higher binding affinity for a subpopulation of benzodiazepine receptors that may result in a lack of cross tolerance with other benzodiazepines.
Browne JL, Hauge KJ. A Review of Alprazolam Withdrawal. Drug Intelligence & Clinical Pharmacy. 1986;20(11):837-841. doi:10.1177/106002808602001102
Posted in Question Of The Day