A benzodiazepine (pronounced /ˌbɛnzɵdaɪˈæzɨpiːn/, sometimes abbreviated to "benzo") is a psychoactive drug whose core chemical structure is the fusion of a benzene ring and a diazepine ring. Benzodiazepines have varying sedative, hypnotic (sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant and amnesic properties.[1] These properties make benzodiazepines useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, agitation, seizures, muscle spasms, alcohol withdrawal and as a premedication for medical or dental procedures.[2] Benzodiazepines vary in their elimination half-life, and are categorized as either short-, intermediate- or long-acting. Short- and intermediate-acting benzodiazepines are preferred for the treatment of insomnia; longer-acting benzodiazepines are recommended for the treatment of anxiety.[3]
Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at GABAA receptors, resulting in a depressant effect on the central nervous system.[4] The first benzodiazepine, chlordiazepoxide (trade name Librium), was discovered accidentally by Leo Sternbach in the year 1955, and made available in 1960 by Hoffmann–La Roche, which has also marketed diazepam (Valium) since 1963.[4] The benzodiazepines largely replaced barbiturates as the most commonly prescribed sedative hypnotics. More recently, other drugs, such as the nonbenzodiazepines, have become more popular for the treatment of insomnia.[5]
Benzodiazepines are generally safe and effective in the short term, although cognitive impairments and paradoxical effects such as aggression or behavioral disinhibition occasionally occur.[6] Long-term use is not recommended because it can lead to adverse psychological and physical effects, and because benzodiazepines are prone to cause tolerance, physical dependence, and, upon cessation of use, a withdrawal syndrome.[7][8] Withdrawal from benzodiazepines generally leads to improved physical and mental health.[9][10] The elderly are at an increased risk of suffering from both short- and long-term adverse effects.[9][11]
There is controversy concerning the safety of benzodiazepines in pregnancy. While they are not major teratogens, uncertainty remains as to whether they cause cleft palate in a small number of babies and whether neurobehavioural effects occur as a result of prenatal exposure;[12] they are known to cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn. Benzodiazepines are often taken in overdoses and can cause dangerous deep unconsciousness. However, they are much less toxic than their predecessors, the barbiturates, and death rarely results when a benzodiazepine is the only drug taken. When combined with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol and opiates, the potential for toxicity increases.[13] Benzodiazepines are commonly misused and taken in combination with other drugs of abuse.[14][15][16]
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The drug was a modification of the first benzodiazepine , librium, and today is used in the treatment of anxiety. Valium has totally replaced the ...
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ue, 30 Jun 2009 23:31:56 GM
Drug(s): Subutex, . Benzodiazepine. , Remeron, Inderal, Zurcal, Methadone Hcl, Seroquel Date: Nov, 17, 2008 Patient demographics: 34 year(s) old Male who has Drug Therapy, Drug Use For Unknown Indication.
Q. What kind of recreational drugs contains benzodiazepine?
Asked by horace_hon - Fri May 11 07:23:49 2007 - - 1 Answers - 0 Comments
A. Benzodiazepines substances often used for recreational includes: alprazolam (Xanax) clonazepam (Klonopin) diazepam (Valium) flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) lorazepam (Ativan) nitrazepam (Mogadon) temazepam (Restoril)
Answered by lani s - Fri May 11 08:10:41 2007
