Librium belongs to the classification of medications known as benzodiazepines. Although discovered in 1930's, benzodiazepines did not become available to the public until the release of Librium in 1957, according to the University of Maryland's Center for Substance Abuse Research. Doctors primarily prescribe Librium, the brand name of the generic medication known as chlordiazepoxide, to treat conditions of anxiety---a condition characterized by feelings of fearfulness, worry or nervousness that interfere with daily activity.
Anti-Anxiety
Librium enhances the activity of a chemical in the brain known as gamma-amino butyric acid, commonly called GABA. Although classified as a neurotransmitter---a substance that transmits nerve impulses, GABA actually inhibits motor neurons therefore slowing down impulses between nerves. Because Librium enhances this activity it slows nerve signals even more resulting in a calming and relaxation effect. This action makes Librium an effective choice in treating anxiety disorders.
Sedation
By slowing the nerve impulses in the brain, Librium also causes sedation. In some instances, such as doctors using Librium prior to surgical procedures to help calm and sedate a patient, sedation is a positive effect. Most of the time; however, sedation produces unwanted effects including impaired motor coordination, drowsiness, lethargy and slowed reflexes. Librium therefore includes a warning about the dangers of operating machinery, including driving a car, as described by the U.S. Library of Medicine.
Psychological Effects
Because Librium affects neurotransmitters in the brain, it can cause a variety of psychological effects. The most common effects include impaired thinking and memory as well as confusion and depression, according to the University of Maryland's Center for Substance Abuse Research. At high doses Librium can cause mood swings that range from hostile behavior to periods or euphoria. Some psychiatric patients exhibit paradoxical reactions, those that seem opposite of what the drug should induce, such as excitement, stimulation and acute rage, according to the U.S. Library of Medicine.
Additional Side Effects
In addition to the wanted effects of relieving anxiety, Librium may also trigger a number of unwanted side effects. Librium can affect sensory perception therefore resulting in altered vision or slurred speech. By impairing the central nervous system Librium can cause respiratory depression in which the rate of breathing can slow to a dangerous level. Other side effects include vertigo, tremors, nausea, dry mouth, vomiting and diarrhea.
Dependence/Withdrawal
Librium, like other benzodiazepine medications, has the potential to induce physical or psychological dependence. Therefore the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration specifies Librium as a schedule IV controlled substance. Patients taking Librium long-term that develop dependence may experience symptoms of withdrawal once they stop taking the medication. Symptoms of withdrawal include convulsions, tremor, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting and sweating.
