Benzodiazepine

BZD Use, misuse and abuse- its clinical implications

Abstract

In India, doctors mostly use benzodiazepine-type sleeping pills. Benzodiazepine group of drugs include Alprazolam, Lorazepam, Clonazepam, Temazepam, Nitrazepam, and Diazepam and so on. These drugs work by stimulating the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. There are many different neurotransmitters in the brain. Some of them stimulate the brain, while others reduce brain activity. Normally, our brain functions properly when these two types of neurotransmitters work in balance. The neurotransmitter GABA in our brain plays a major role in our sleep-wake cycle. Therefore, the Benzodiazepine group of drugs when prescribed works in the same place where the neurotransmitter GABA works in the brain thereby making us sleepy. Benzodiazepine tablets are used for medical purposes such as sleep disturbances, seizure disorder, anxiety disorders, and muscle tension. It should be noted that while these drugs have many uses, they also have many side effects. This article discusses the therapeutic uses of Benzodiazepines in various neuro-psychiatric conditions. It also discusses the signs and symptoms of Benzodiazepine abuse, dependence and withdrawal (both physical and psychological). This article highlights the importance of prescribing and dispensing benzodiazepines with proper regulation, care and precaution in view to prevent the medication abuse. Treatment modalities for benzodiazepine dependence are also discussed here.