This can be linked to addiction as the patient is not just psychologically addicted to the substance, which can be seen with cravings, and physical addiction. Withdrawal, like with alcohol since they exert their effects on similar receptors, can be life threatening. Withdrawal occurs as the BZD concentration in blood and tissue declines, generally causing symptoms opposite to that of the drug’s therapeutic effects.
Cognitive effects
Longer-acting benzodiazepines have a slower development of withdrawal symptoms that typically begin several days after discontinuation, but peak at about 7 days. Under the direction of a physician, certain benzodiazepines may be given in very serious and life-threatening situations like status epilepticus. Overall, benzodiazepines should be used short-term as they can lead to tolerance, abuse, dependence (addiction), withdrawal and possible fatal overdose when combined with opioids.
- This is supported in a similar study of elderly adults on a BZD for six months with drug discontinuation one month later.
- BZDs represent one of the most widely prescribed drug classes in the United States.
- The severity of the withdrawal sequelae depends on the total dose and duration of infusion and usually presents as agitation, tremors, difficulty sleeping, and inconsolable crying [60].
Acid-suppressing drugs
The effectiveness of Ativan (lorazepam) in long-term use, that is, more than 4 months, has not been assessed by systematic clinical studies. The physician should periodically reassess the usefulness of the drug for the individual patient. These effects help relieve the symptoms of certain conditions it’s used for, such as anxiety and panic disorder, and are why it is sometimes used for sedation. This list is not complete and many other drugs may interact with lorazepam. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping Ativan suddenly.
For healthcare professionals
Benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax) are useful for panic attacks. They are safe when used as directed severe benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome and often bring quick relief from panic symptoms. Panic disorder can be a prolonged, chronic disorder, but it is very treatable with medications that lessen symptoms.
Common Benzodiazepine Side Effects
The study also showed that 64% of heroin users are also abusing BZD [46]. Always consult your healthcare provider about how drug interactions should be managed before making any changes to your current medications. As noted in the Boxed Warnings, concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. All of the nonbenzodiazepine agents are approved only for the treatment of insomnia. GAD is the most frequent anxiety disorder, affecting 6.8 million adults or about 3% of the U.S. population, but more than half remain untreated.
- Benzodiazepines have both advantages and disadvantages to their use.
- Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
- Sleepiness is one of the most commonly reported side effects of tramadol tablets and extended-release tablets.
- Benzodiazepine administration may lead to common adverse effects, including, but not limited to, respiratory depression, respiratory arrest, drowsiness, confusion, headache, syncope, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.
- Long-term use of benzodiazepines for GAD should be avoided, when possible, due to addictive risk.
The difference in these characteristics dictates the clinical applicability of the drugs. Oxazepam, temazepam, and chlordiazepoxide which are low potency benzodiazepines are well tolerated with low toxicity levels. Alprazolam, lorazepam and clonazepam are high potently clinically used to treat panic disorders and serve as adjuncts for treating many other diseases [1]. Due to their toxic effect on the central nervous system, appropriate care is necessary with BZD.