What Are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines are a type of tranquilizer. They are usually used for short-term treatment, given for 2-4 weeks.
Benzodiazepines are usually available as oral tablets or solutions.
In rare situations, this medication may be injected to help control panic attacks.
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs used to treat a variety of health conditions, especially anxiety disorders and sleep disorders.
Drugs in this class work by suppressing the activity of the central nervous system, resulting in sedative, antianxiety, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant (preventing and treating seizures) effects.
It is important to remember that benzodiazepine use should be done with a doctor’s prescription and according to the instructions given.
Because long-term use can cause dependency and certain side effects.
Benefits of Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat the following conditions:
1. Anxiety disorders
Benzodiazepines can help reduce symptoms of excessive anxiety and nervous tension.
This medication is often prescribed for generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and panic disorder.
2. Sleep disorders
Some benzodiazepine drugs have hypnotic effects that help treat sleep disorders, such as insomnia.
This medicine also helps induce sleep and improves sleep quality. Irregular sleep can lead to obesity.
3. Seizures
Benzodiazepines are also used as anticonvulsants to control seizures in epilepsy and other neurological conditions.
4. Muscle relaxant
Some types of benzodiazepines have muscle relaxant effects that help reduce muscle stiffness and spasms.
This drug can be used to treat conditions such as muscle spasms or muscle cramps.
Benzodiazepine Dosage
The dose of benzodiazepines will vary depending on the type of drug used, the individual’s medical condition, and response to treatment.
It is important to always follow your doctor’s instructions and stick to the prescribed dosage.
Do not change the dose or stop using it without first consulting your doctor.
Generally, for adults, the dose of benzodiazepine used is 2-10 mg, which can be given 2-4 times a day.
How to Use Benzodiazepines
You should only take prescribed benzodiazepines for the shortest possible time.
Taking benzodiazepines regularly for several weeks or more can lead to addiction.
Usually, doctors will only recommend taking this medication for 2-4 weeks.
Spaced use can help avoid addiction.
Spaced use means that you are not taking it regularly. In other words, you are not taking it every day.
The risk of addiction to this drug may be higher if you:
- Have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
- Having a personality disorder.
Cautions in Using Benzodiazepines
There are several things to consider when taking benzodiazepines, namely:
- Use as prescribed, be sure to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dosage or stop using it without first consulting your doctor. Use that is not in accordance with the instructions can have negative effects on health.
- Avoid long-term use. Long-term use can lead to dependence and tolerance to the drug, and increase the risk of adverse side effects.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery. Benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness and decreased alertness. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this medication, especially at the beginning of treatment or if the dose is increased.
- Avoid alcohol consumption. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, leading to more severe cognitive decline. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- Be aware of drug interactions. Tell your doctor about all other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking. Some drugs or other substances can interact with benzodiazepines and affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using benzodiazepines unless specifically prescribed by a doctor. The use of these drugs can have negative effects on the development of the fetus or nursing infant. Here is a List of Drugs That Are Safe for Pregnant Women to Take.
Benzodiazepine Side Effects
Some common side effects of benzodiazepines include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, coordination problems, and memory problems.
If these side effects interfere with your daily activities, consult a doctor immediately.
Benzodiazepine Interactions
This medication may interact dangerously with alcohol or certain medications.
Benzodiazepines can interact with medications such as opioid pain medications (such as oxycodone or hydrocodone).
Interactions like this can interfere with the mechanism of action of the drug, resulting in a fatal risk.
Contraindications of Benzodiazepines
This medication is not recommended for certain health conditions, as it may cause more serious health problems.
Here are some of the contraindications:
- Allergy
If you have a history of allergies to benzodiazepines or components of the drug, you should avoid using it.
- Respiratory disorders
The use of benzodiazepines can depress the respiratory system, so it is not recommended for individuals with conditions such as sleep apnea, severe respiratory disorders, or respiratory failure.
- Myasthenia gravis
Benzodiazepines can worsen muscle weakness in individuals with myasthenia gravis, which is a neuromuscular disorder.
- Severe liver disorders
If you have severe liver problems, benzodiazepine use may not be recommended, as these drugs can affect liver function.
- Glaucoma
Benzodiazepines can cause increased intraocular pressure in people with glaucoma, which can damage vision.
