Benzodiadepines

These used to be know as 'minor tranquillizers' which are particularly helpful in relieving acute anxiety and insomnia. They are not antidepressants.  They should be used with caution as prolonged use may cause dependence.

The most commonly used benzodiazepines are:

• diazepam
• alprazolam
• lorazepam

Possible side-effects of treatment with benzodiazepines include:

• sedation
• loss of memory
• unsteadiness
• dependence

Benzodiazepines are the classical and effective anxiolytic treatment for anxiety disorders, although problems with side-effects, dependence and misuse in the last 10 years have reduced their use.

All benzodiazepines have a potential to cause dependence and patients are prescribed the smallest dosage possible to provide an acceptable level of symptom relief.   For some patients, intermittent treatment is enough to alleviate symptoms.  Most of the disadvantages of benzodiazepines result from long-term use.