This is more common if benzodiazepines are combined with other drugs such as alcohol, painkillers, antidepressants, antihistamines, or heroin. Overdoses are usually characterised by slow, shallow breathing which may lead to unconsciousness, coma and potentially death. have problems with thinking, concentration and memory.In larger doses, benzodiazepines produce a similar effect to drunkenness. If you are prescribed benzodiazepines, store them safely and securely and never allow others to use them. Store benzodiazepines securelyĪs benzodiazepines can be highly addictive, they should only be used under medical supervision. Be guided by your doctor and health team. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to avoid them. There is a risk that benzodiazepines can be harmful to babies. difficulty sleeping or disturbing dreams.weakness, lethargy and lack of motivation.Using benzodiazepines on a regular basis can lead to significant health problems, including: a sense of being disconnected or detached from reality.The effects of benzodiazepines depend on the strength of the dose, the physical make-up of the person taking them and their state of mind.Ĭommon effects of benzodiazepines include: In Victoria, it is against the law to use benzodiazepines without a prescription or to give or sell them to someone else. Some people may give them to others intentionally or without their consent (such as spiking their drink). They may use them to feel a sense of euphoria (or high) or mix them with other drugs such as stimulants ( cocaine, amphetamines, ecstasy) to ‘come down’.īenzodiazepines can be dangerous when mixed with other drugs (including alcohol) and can put you at risk of overdose or harm. Some people take benzodiazepines illegally for recreational use. lifestyle changes (such as eating healthily or incorporating physical activity into your day).techniques to lower stress levels (such as relaxation or breathing exercises).psychological therapies - such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).They are a small part of overall treatment for stress, anxiety or insomnia and used with other treatments that provide longer term solutions such as: It is generally recommended that benzodiazepines only be used for a short term – just days or weeks at a time. Benzodiazepines are a small part of treatment They only treat symptoms of anxiety or insomnia, and do not solve the underlying causes of these conditions.īenzodiazepines can be highly addictive, whether they are taken under medical supervision or used recreationally. short-acting – oxazepam (Serapax), temazepam (Normison) and alprazolam (Xanax).īenzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants, which means they slow down the workings of the brain.intermediate-acting – nitrazepam (Mogadon).They are made by different companies and sold under various brand names. Short-acting medications tend to be more addictive and have a stronger withdrawal and ‘come down’ effect. There are three types of benzodiazepines – long-acting, intermediate and short-acting. help relax muscles during certain medical procedures (such as endoscopy).help with treatment of symptoms experienced by cancer patients.treat the symptoms of anxiety disorders.They are usually a short-term treatment to help calm the nervous system and promote sleep. What are benzodiazepines?īenzodiazepines are medicines that are only available on prescription from a doctor. They can be highly addictive.Īlthough they are classified as minor tranquillisers, this is not a reference to the effect that benzodiazepines have on the body. They are also known as ‘minor tranquillisers’ and sedatives (or sleeping pills).īenzodiazepines are available on prescription in Australia and should only be used under a doctor’s supervision. Benzodiazepines (or benzos) are a group of nervous system depressants commonly prescribed to treat stress, anxiety or insomnia.
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