History of Benzodiazepines

 

Benzodiazepines (BDZs) are used clinically as an anxiolytic (long half-life drugs), a hypnotic (short half-life drugs), and in withdrawal, such as chlordiazepoxide in alcohol withdrawal. However, low doses and a short duration of treatment is preferred due to the abuse potential.

 

The main drugs of abuse are temazepam and diazepam, and are often used as a poly drug regime or as an alternative when there is limited access to other drugs of abuse, therefore care needs to be taken when prescribing benzodiazepines to those with a history of substance abuse.