Benzodiazepine

What is Benzodiazepine? 

Benzodiazepines are a class of central nervous system depressants that act by enhancing the neurotransmitter GABA, producing calming effects such as reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sedation. Medically, they are widely prescribed for anxiety disorders, insomnia, muscle spasms, seizure control, and alcohol-withdrawal management. Common prescription examples include Xanax® (alprazolam), Valium® (diazepam), Klonopin® (clonazepam), Ativan® (lorazepam), and Restoril® (temazepam).

Pharmaceutical benzodiazepines typically come as tablets, capsules, liquid solutions, or occasionally injectable formulations used in clinical settings. Illicitly misused benzodiazepines may appear as diverted prescription pills or counterfeit tablets produced to resemble pharmaceutical products. Recreational use often involves taking higher-than-prescribed doses to achieve sedation, euphoria, or potentiation of other substances, particularly opioids and alcohol, which drastically increases overdose risk. Benzodiazepines are associated with dependence, withdrawal, and impaired cognitive and motor function, especially with long-term misuse.

Effects:

• Sedation and drowsiness

• Reduced anxiety and muscle tension

• Impaired coordination and slowed reaction time

• Memory impairment or “blackouts”

• Slurred speech

• Confusion or cognitive slowing

• Dizziness or loss of balance

• Respiratory depression (especially with opioids or alcohol)

• Risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms

• Emotional blunting or flattened affect