History

• PharmaceuticalsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Kristian Th?gersen
  
  Benzodiazepines were discovered by a worker at the pharmaceutical company Hoffman-LaRoche in the 1930s. In 1957, Hoffman-LaRoche introduced Librium to the general public, the first benzodiazepine and one used to treat anxiety. By the 1980s, benzodiazepines had become the most prescribed medications in the United States and had also become the subject of abuse by many. Today they are used for the treatment of anxiety, as well as to aid in relaxation and relieve tension.
  
  

Types

• Xanax (alprazolam)Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Dean
  
  Some of the most commonly prescribed types of benzodiazepines include the date-rape drug Rohypnol (generic name flunitrazepam), Ativan (generic name lorazepam), Xanax (generic name alprazolam), Librium (generic name chlordiazepoxide), Versed (generic name midazolam) and Valium (generic name diazepam). Most are taken in capsule or tablet form, while some are used intravenously.
  
  

Short-acting vs. long-acting

• Drugs with various effectsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of psyberartist
  
  There are two classifications of benzodiazepines: short-acting and long-acting. These classifications determine each benzodiazepine's use, what conditions it will be prescribed for and how easily a person can tolerate it, become dependent upon it or abuse it. Short-acting benzodiazepines clear from the body's system in a short period of time (three to six hours, depending upon a person's size and body weight). Long-acting benzodiazepines can accumulate in the bloodstream and/or take a much longer period (eight to twelve hours, depending upon a person's size and body weight) of time to exit the body's system.
  
  

Short-term effects

• Prescription drugs are easy targets for abuseImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Lee Nachtigal
  
  In low or moderate doses, benzodiazepines can cause poor motor coordination, fatigue, drowsiness, lethargy, problems with memory and thinking, confusion, changes in vision, depression, slurred speech, dizziness, tremors, decreased breathing, nausea/vomiting, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite and/or diarrhea. Higher doses of benzodiazepines have been known to cause exaggerated drowsiness, slower reflexes, erratic behavior, hostile behavior, mood swings and euphoria.
  
  

Long-term effects

• Benzodiazepines are easily obtained at a pharmacy with a prescriptionImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of chelseagirl
  
  Long-term effects of benzodiazepines can be caused by the drug accumulating in the body over time. These include hyper-sedation, problems with thinking, memory and judgment; confusion, disorientation, slurred speech, poor coordination and weak muscles.
  
  

Abuse

• Benzodiazepine abuse can occur via injectionImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Steven Depolo
  
  Benzodiazepines are commonly abused by those who abuse more than one drug (polyabusers) and alcoholics. They are easily obtained through prescriptions, sometimes from multiple doctors when abusers "doctor-shop." Abusers will take large doses of benzodiazepines, leading to dependence. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be painful and may include convulsions and psychotic experiences.
  
  

Drug Interactions

• Benzodiazepines may interact with other medicationsImage by Flickr.com, courtesy of Charles Williams
  
  Benzodiazepines have the potential to interact with a variety of other medications. Antacids can cause delayed absorption of benzodiazepines. Oral contraceptives can eliminate the half-life of benzodiazepines. Cimetidine can increase the toxic effects. Rifampicin can shorten the half-life. L-dopa can worsen Parkinson-like symptoms. Disulfiram can increase the effects of benzodiazepines.