Guide To The Most Common Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are medications that affect the central nervous system. First discovered in the 1950s, these drugs produce a calming effect by attaching to the brain's GABA-A receptors. To reduce the risk of dependency, doctors typically prescribe them for two to four weeks. It is common for patients to experience sedation, dizziness, weakness, and unsteadiness during treatment. Nausea, confusion, forgetfulness, and vision problems may occur as well. While using these medications, patients should check with their doctor about if they can drive a car or operate machinery.

Benzodiazepines are among the best treatments for seizures. They are also used as a major part of sleep disturbance, panic disorder, and anxiety treatment. In some instances, these medications help surgical patients relax. What they are used for does, however, depend on the exact medication in question. The most common of them handle the common uses.

Clonazepam (Klonopin)

Clonazepam (Klonopin) is primarily used to prevent and treat seizures. It can be used to treat absence seizures and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome in children and adults. It is often prescribed for panic disorder and agoraphobia in adults. Patients with liver disease or narrow-angle glaucoma should not take it. Individuals with allergies to diazepam or lorazepam should not use it either.

The most common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and depression. Problems with memory and balance also occur. While taking this medicine, individuals should call their doctor immediately if they experience seizures, breathing difficulties, involuntary eye movements, or a pounding heartbeat. Patients using clonazepam should ask their doctor before taking any prescription cough medicine, sleeping pills, or muscle relaxers.

Continue reading to reveal another common type of these medications now.

Lorazepam (Ativan)

Lorazepam (Ativan) is typically prescribed to treat anxiety or seizures. Individuals should not use it if they are pregnant. Narrow-angle glaucoma patients are not suitable for it either. Before prescribing lorazepam, doctors will ask the patient about any history of kidney disease, liver disease, alcohol dependency, depression, and mood disorders. Lorazepam may not be safe for individuals with these conditions. The medication should not be used by patients who are breastfeeding. Patients must also avoid alcohol with it.

Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, and a feeling of being unsteady. Patients who take this medicine will need to check with their doctor before using antihistamines or medications for mental health conditions. They should also inform their doctor if they use aminophylline, theophylline, or probenecid.

Reveal additional common benzodiazepines now.