Benzodiazepins

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The benzodiazepine family of drugs are central nervous system depressants, which are prescribed to produce sedation, induce sleep, relieve anxiety and muscle spasms, and prevent seizures. In general, benzodiazepines act as sleep-inducers at high doses and sedatives at low doses. Benzodiazepines are among the most widely prescribed central nervous system medications and, unfortunately, the among the most frequently abused.
CLINICAL USES
According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, approximately 15 members of the benzodiazepine drug group are marketed in the United States; another 20 are marketed in other countries. Benzodiazepines differ from one another in terms of how quickly they take effect and how long they remain active in the body. Short-acting benzodiazepines are used primarily to manage insomnia and include estazolam, flurazepam, quazepam, temazepam and triazolam. Midazolam is a short-acting, injectable benzodiazepine used for sedation before anesthesia and during medical procedures. Benzodiazepines with longer durations of action are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders and include alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, diazepam, lorazepam, oxazepam and prazepam. Clonazepam and diazepam are commonly used to control seizures disorders. Flunitrazepam, also known as Rohypnol or roofies, is illegal in the United States. However, it is a common street drug. This benzodiazepine is sometimes used as a date-rape drug.
ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE
Daily use of therapeutic doses of benzodiazepines can lead to physical and psychological dependence. The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome is similar to alcohol withdrawal. Symptoms include tremors, sweating, increased blood pressure, elevated heart rate, sleeplessness and increased sensitivity to light and sound. Seizures are the most dangerous potential complication of benzodiazepine withdrawal. Some patients experienced a prolonged withdrawal syndrome characterized by chronic insomnia, anxiety and depression. Gradually tapering off benzodiazepines avoids many of the unpleasant symptoms of withdrawal.
SAFETY
When taken alone, large doses of benzodiazepines are unlikely to cause life-threatening side effects. However, many people who abuse benzodiazepines take them with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants, such as narcotic pain medicines. The combination of depressants can lead to life-threatening suppression of breathing and heart rate, potentially causing intentional or accidental death.
HELP FOR DEPENDENCE
If you suspect you have become dependent on benzodiazepines, talk with your doctor. She will work with you to develop a plan to gradually taper your dose or refer you to an addiction treatment facility to oversee your withdrawal. After your physical withdrawal, addiction counseling may be necessary to help you stay clean and sober.

Benzodiazepins

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