Benzodiazepine medication is a class of depressant drugs. According to the Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR), benzodiazepines are the most common prescribed depressant medications used in the United States. According to KidsHealth, when depressant medications are used correctly, they calm the nerves and help relax muscles. CESAR states benzodiazepines have an increased potential for abuse due to their sedative qualities.
Uses
CESAR states benzodiazepines are prescribed for the treatment of many psychological and physical problems. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), benzodiazepines can be used therapeutically to relieve anxiety, prevent seizures, cause sleep and sedation, and decrease muscle spasms. Benzodiazepines also create hypnotic effects when taken in high doses.
Abuse
According to the DEA, abuse is usually by adolescents and young adults looking to get high. The intoxication produces impaired judgment and a decrease in inhibitions. Benzodiazepines mixed with alcohol or other depressant medications can be life-threatening. The DEA states heroin, cocaine and narcotic addicts also have a high rate of benzodiazepine abuse. CESAR states the abuse of benzodiazepines was not addressed until the 1980s when they became one of the most commonly prescribed medications.
Side Effects
According to CESAR, low doses of benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness, fatigue, impaired coordination and thinking, confusion, depression, altered vision and speech, dizziness, tremors, slowing of breathing, nausea, constipation, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. High doses of this type of drug can cause decreased reflexes, mood swings, hostile and erratic behaviors, and euphoria. CESAR states benzodiazepines are released from the body slowly, causing an accumulation of the drug in fatty tissue with continued use. This slow release can cause oversedation to occur several days later. Other symptoms may include disorientation, impaired judgment, confusion, altered speech and coordination problems.
Federally Approved Benzodiazepines
The following brand-name benzodiazepines are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Restoril, Halcion, Versed, ProSom, Dalmane, Xanax, Librium, Tranxene, Valium, Paxipam, Ativan, Serax, Centrax, Doral and Klonopin. According to the DEA, Rohypnol is an illegal benzodiazepine. Rohypnol is also known as the date rape drug known as rophies, roofies and roach.
Availability
CESAR states availability of benzodiazepines is based on their intended use. Most commonly the drug is taken by mouth in tablet or capsule form. According to CESAR, Valium, Ativan and Librium can be ingested or given intravenously. The benzodiazepine Versed only comes in an intravenous form, while Ativan can also be dissolved under the tongue.
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