Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines 

Benzodiazepines are sedative drugs that increase the effects of the brain's calming chemical, GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), to calm the central nervous system. This slows down brain activity, leads to a calming effect and provides relaxation and sleepiness.

They also carry risks of addiction and withdrawal symptoms

What are benzodiazepines used for?

They treat anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures, can help with alcohol withdrawal symptoms and pre-operative sedation and amnesia for medical or dental procedures.

They should only be used short-term and reserved for severe / disabling anxiety.

Usage of benzodiazepine

•Typically should be used in conjunction with an SSRI.

•Patients can build tolerance very quickly

•These drugs have a street value

•Used recreationally

•We are seeing more use of imported Xanax

•Related to the Z drugs- Zopiclone, Zolpidem etc (used for sleep)

Types of benzodiazepines

-Diazepam (Valium)

-Lorazepam

-Temazepam (CD)

-Clonazapam

-Nitrazepam