Benzodiazepine

Benzodiazepines or benzos are a class of perscription-only drugs that slow down the body and brain's functions. Benzodiazepines gamma increase the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), causing relaxation and sleepiness, and affecting reasoning, memory, emotions and basic bodily functions like breathing.

Uses
Benzodiazepines are psychiatric drugs with many different users including:
 * anxiety
 * panic attacks and panic disorders,
 * insomnia and difficulty staying asleep
 * Alcohol withdrawal
 * To control seizures
 * As a muscle relaxant, e.g. for painful muscle spasms
 * To cause amnesia for uncomfortable medical procedures
 * Benzodiazepines are often given before anesthetics

Differences

 * Ultra-short acting - Midazolam (Versed), triazolam (Halcion)


 * Short-acting - alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan)


 * Long-acting - chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin)

Risks and safety
Benzodiazepines carry a significant risk of addiction, including in patients without a history of substance use disorders.

Costs and availability
Available on perscription only

Learn more

 * Benzodiazepine Abuse Basics - WebMD
 * What are benzodiazepines? - Mind
 * List of Common Benzodiazepines + Uses & Side Effects - drugs.com