Benzodiazepine

A class of drugs with hypnotic, anxiolytic and myorelaxant properties. They are believed to act on receptors near the GABA receptor which dampens neuronal activity.

Benzodiazepines are used in short term relief of severe, disabling anxiety

but their prolonged use is discouraged because of tolerance and dependency.

These drugs are preferred to the use of barbiturates because they have a lower abuse potential and relatively lower adverse reactions or interactions. However, drowsiness, ataxia, confusion, vertigo, impaired judgement and a number of other effects are common.

Benzodiazepines are divided into three groups for treatment of insomnia. Short-acting compounds act for less than six hours and have few residual effects, but rebound insomnia is common and anxiety levels may increase. Intermediate-acting compunds have an effect for 6-10 hours, may have mild residual effects but rebound insomnia is not common. Long-acting compunds have strong sedative effects that persist and accumulation may occur.

Some examples of benzdiazepines :

• diazepam

• oxazepam (a metabolite of diazepam)

• alprazolam

• prazepam

• bromazepam

• clorazepate dipotassium

• lorazepam

• temazepam

• medazepam

• flunitrazepam

Benzodiazepines used to be widely prescribed medicines for stress-related

ailments in the 1960's and 1970's.

Diazepam under the proprietary name - Valium, was one of the best selling

medicinal products.

/Talk