Over the next decade, it became the most prescribed drug in the United States. This led to the release of diazepam (Valium) in 1963, considered to be safer than barbiturates. In the quest for a safer alternative, American chemist Leo Sternbach created the first compound in the benzodiazepines class of drugs, methaminodiazepoxide. But the incidence of dependence, severe withdrawal reactions, overdose and death had become a great concern. Up to the mid-1950s, barbiturates were widely used to treat insomnia and anxiety. For these reasons, withdrawal should be gradual and guided by clinicians, who can help patients cope with any symptoms. Some people are therefore reluctant to stop the drug. Long-term use is generally not recommended because of the known side effects.īut withdrawal can be difficult since the initial symptoms for which the drug was prescribed might return, made worse by the symptoms from the withdrawal itself. When the drug is stopped, users can experience severe withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, irritability, tension, panic attacks, tremor, sweating, poor concentration, nausea, palpitations, headache, muscle aches and sometimes even seizures and psychotic reactions. Tolerance means that, over time, the effect of the drug wears off and a higher dose is needed for the same effect. This is particularly problematic given that use is more common among older age groups.īenzodiazepines are also sold as street drugs, can impair driving and are associated with overdose.Ĭontinued use even at low dose for a few weeks can lead to physiological dependence (tolerance and withdrawal). Side effectsīenzodiazepines can cause confusion, cognitive impairment and falls, resulting in considerable disruption and socioeconomic costs. But its use in long-term situations has been increasingly questioned.ĭiazepam is an effective and low-cost drug – at A$11.67 to $17.19 for a pack of 50 in Australia – and therefore remains on the World Health Organisation List of Essential Medications. There is little controversy about using benzodiazepines in acute psychiatric emergencies, anaesthesia, intensive care, palliative care at the end of life, and in the treatment of seizures and alcohol withdrawal. How is it used?īenzodiazepines have been used for insomnia, anxiety, reducing muscle tension and other situations where there is a need to calm the central nervous system. These are sometimes referred to as “downers” as they make people feel relaxed, sleepy, less coordinated and generally slowed down. Benzodiazepines, like alcohol, are depressant drugs.
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