Benzodiazepines Facts

Just what are clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam and their –zepam cousins? Find out more about these often abused prescription meds better known as Valium, Ativan, etc.

Benzodiazepine refers to a psychoactive drug whose core chemical structure is a mix of benzene and diazepine. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid, resulting in a sedative, anti-anxiety, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, amnesic state. It’s these properties that make benzodiazepines popular for treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal. They are also used to lessen anxiety prior to medical or dental procedures. They are categorized as short-, intermediate- or long-acting, making some benzodiazepines better for the treatment of insomnia while others are preferred for anxiety or other symptoms.

Benzodiazepines Warnings

Benzodiazepines are generally safe and effective in the short term, but there can be cognitive impairments and aggression or a lack of inhibition can occur. Long-term use is not recommended, in part because benzodiazepines are prone to cause tolerance or physical dependence. Long-time users can also experience withdrawal symptoms.

Benzodiazepines and Overdose

Benzodiazepines are often used in overdosing, providing a sedative, unconscious state when abused. Popular among those looking for prescription medication to abuse, benzodiazepines are often combined with other drugs, making them more dangerous. Their toxicity greatly increases when mixed with other central nervous system depressants (alcohol and opiates are common).

There is a wide range of benzodiazepines currently on the market, available by prescription and used to treat a variety of issues. These popular prescription meds are usually better known by their brand names, which include Valium, Ativan and Klonopin among others.

Common Benzodiazepines

Diazepam - A benzodiazepine derivative first marketed under the brand name Valium, it is probably the best known of the “–zepam” drugs. Diazepam possesses anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, hypnotic, sedative, muscle relaxant and amnesic properties. Commonly used for treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, muscle spasms, restless leg syndrome, alcohol withdrawal and benzodiazepine withdrawal, it may also be used to reduce tension prior to some medical procedures.

Prazepam - A benzodiazepine derivative that possesses anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, sedative and muscle relaxant properties. Prazepam is a prodrug for desmethyldiasepam. 

Lorazepam - A benzodiazepine derivative known by the brand names Ativan and Temestal. Lorazepam produces all five benzodiazepine effects and has an active period of short to medium duration.

Quazepam - A benzodiazepine derivative known by the brand names Doral and Dormalin. Used for the treatment of insomnia and sleep maintenance. Quazepam induces impairment of motor function and has hypnotic and anticonvulsant properties.

Medazepam – A benzodiazepine derivative marketed under the brand names Nobrium, Rudotel, Raporan and Ansilan. Possesses muscle relaxant, sedative and anticonvulsant properties. Long acting.

Clonazepam - A benzodiazepine derivative known by the brand name Klonopin in the U.S. Other names include Ravotril, Rivotril and Rivatril. Possesses highly potent anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant and anxiolytic properties.

Benzodiazepine Rehab

Benzodiazepines are powerful drugs and addiction is a danger when they are used for an extended period or for reasons other than prescribed. If you or someone you love has developed an addiction to prescription medication, call The Canyon at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.