Benzodiazepines are sedatives that are depressants of the central nervous system. They are sold under such names as Klonopin, Xanax, Valium, Ativan and Librium. They may be used in the treatment of such maladies as seizure disorders, withdrawal from alcohol abuse and anxiety disorders. They are addictive and have many side effects, so they may only be prescribed for short periods, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Serious Side Effects
While some serious side effects of taking benzodiazepines may vary from medication to medication, many of them are similar. Talk to your physician immediately about any of these you experience. They include shakiness, unsteadiness, dizziness, muscle control difficulties, pain in the abdomen, mental confusion, a fever, urine discoloration that usually is dark, a cough, fast heartbeat, an irregular heartbeat, hallucinations and discouragement. Others may include decrease in urine output, believing things that are not true, a belief people can hear what you are thinking, appetite loss, nausea, nightmares, headaches, over-excitability, memory problems, anger outbursts, seizures, mood changes, restlessness, slurred speech, decreased ability to experience pleasure or have interest in things, abnormal behavior, vomit that contains blood, halitosis, speaking difficulties, tremors, insomnia and shortness of breath.
Non-Serious Side Effects
People taking benzodiazepines have reported non-serious, temporary side effects when they begin treatment. The Mayo Clinic states that these will go away in most cases without medical aid. If they don't, call your doctor. They include spinning sensations, impotence, constipation, double vision, flatulence, dry mouth, lowered libido, decreases in sexual performance or ability, indigestion, raised libido, swallowing problems, diarrhea and mouth watering.
Overdose Side Effects
The dose of benzodiazepines you take will depend on the particular drug used and your doctor's orders. Exceeding such doses may cause side effects of an overdose that require immediate emergency aid. These may include abnormal drowsiness, consciousness changes, abnormal dullness or sluggishness, breathing difficulties, unconsciousness, changes in breathing that may be irregular or slower or faster than normal, uncoordination, decreased energy or strength, muscle weakness, abnormal tiredness and paleness or a blue coloration of the skin, fingernails or lips.
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