Scientific Names

Some familiar benzodiazepines: Diazepam (valium), Chlordiazepoxide (librium), Lorazepam (ativan), Medazepam (nobrium), Flunitrazepam (rohypnol), Oxazepam (oxazepam), Temazepam (normison), Flurazepam (dalmane), Nitrazepam (mogadon). There are many more in this class of drugs.

Generic Name

Minor tranquilisers

Effects Of Benzodiazepines

Desired Effects:

Relaxation, reduced anxiety, euphoria.

Side-Effects:

Drowsiness, light-headedness, loss of coordination, confusion.

Risks

Short-term:

Tolerance, accidents, potential for Overdose if combined with Alcohol. Rohypnol has been implicated in a number of drug-assisted rape cases where the drug has been supplied into someone's drink without them knowing.

Long-term:

Dependence, severe Withdrawal symptoms if suddenly stopped, Agoraphobia, panic attacks, severe anxiety.

How do Benzodiazepines work?

Central nervous system Depressant, Sedative, anticonvulsant.

Legal status of Benzodiazepines

Class C under the Misuse of Drugs Act.

How Are Benzodiazepines Taken?

Orally, injected.

Paraphernalia

If Tablets are crushed and injected: Needles & Syringes, water, matches or lighter, spoon, Tourniquet.

Medical uses of Benzodiazepines

To treat restlessness, depression, tension and anxiety; to induce sleep; as a muscle relaxant; as a pre-surgery Sedative, as an anti-convulsant drug, psychiatric disorders and Withdrawal from Alcohol.

Where do they come from?

Diverted from manufacturers, pharmacies and GPs prescriptions.

Helping services

Benzodiazepines are highly physically addictive drugs. Withdrawal symptoms may be very severe, even life threatening, if use is just stopped. It is very important that any Benzodiazepine is reduced gradually using a reduction programme. GPs might be the first port of call for someone wanting to reduce or come off these drugs and a GP can prescribe a reduction scheme to gradually wean off. A GP may also refer to a community drug service or ‘street agency’ to provide additional support in the way of information and advice, counselling, and sometimes support groups and complementary therapies such as acupuncture. Some services have extended working hours and may offer weekend support.

Parents & other relatives

Many drug agencies also provide lots of advice and support to parents, family members and partners of people using drugs. They may provide relative support groups or advice, guidance and counselling on a one to one basis.

You can view a list of National Tranqilliser Agencies.

If you would like to talk about benzodiazepines problems then please call the DAN 24/7 Helpline on:

0808 808 2234