Benzodiazepines are a type of drug used to treat a wide range of conditions, including anxiety, seizures, and insomnia. They can also be used off-label to treat tics and bipolar disorder. Benzodiazepines are usually safe and effective when taken correctly, but long-term use can lead to tolerance and dependence. In addition, mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol or other drugs can be fatal.
Medications in this group work by enhancing the effect of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which sends calming messages to the brain. GABA can help control overstimulation that occurs in the brain when you feel anxious. Benzodiazepines can relieve anxiety and relax muscles, making you feel more at ease. They can be administered orally, intravenously, intranasally, and rectally depending on the situation.
A doctor may prescribe a low dose of benzodiazepines for short-term or emergency conditions. These include treating a seizure, relaxing before surgery, or preventing anxiety associated with anesthesia. Long-term benzodiazepine use, however, isn’t recommended because it can lead to tolerance and dependence. It can also interfere with the body’s ability to regulate sleep, which can result in insomnia. Benzodiazepines can also cause problems with memory, including forgetfulness and difficulty retaining new information. In some cases, benzodiazepines can also increase the risk of a stroke.
People with mental illness are more likely to misuse benzodiazepines than others, according to a study by Mchugh and Cook. This could be due to underlying issues such as depression, substance abuse, or difficulty with family relationships and social situations.
In a survey of general practitioners, many reported feeling pressured to prescribe benzodiazepines to their patients. Some even offered discounts on the medication to encourage prescriptions. A number of doctors also reported that they were not familiar with alternative psychological therapies to treat insomnia, which can be just as effective as benzodiazepines for some people.
Benzodiazepines can cause serious side effects, including respiratory depression, coma, and death. These risks are higher for elderly people. In addition, benzodiazepine withdrawal can be severe and difficult to reverse. It is best to stop the medication gradually under a doctor’s supervision. There are several alternate medications that can be used to reduce the severity of withdrawal, such as alpha-blockers (propranolol and clonidine), anticonvulsants (valproic acid, lamotrigine, carbamazepine and phenobarbital) and baclofen.
The FDA warns that benzodiazepines aren’t safe for children and should only be given to them in an emergency. They may also be abused by teenagers, especially when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. Teens should avoid using BZDs, and if they must, it is best to take the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time. In addition, they should never drive while taking benzodiazepines. It’s also important to note that benzodiazepines can interact with other medications, including opioid painkillers. People should talk with their doctor about what other medications they are taking and whether there is a possibility of an interaction. In this way, they can avoid unwanted and dangerous side effects.
