"Remembrance Increasingly Includes Lives Lost to Overdoses Involving Benzodiazepines
August 31 marks International Overdose Awareness Day every year. It’s a day to remember and grieve those we’ve lost, and to strengthen resolve to end overdose injuries and deaths.
In 2020, over 93,000 people lost their lives to drug overdose. The fight against the drug overdose epidemic is continually evolving, and benzodiazepines constitute an emerging and dangerous front.
What are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines (also known as “benzos” and “downers”) are sedatives commonly prescribed to treat insomnia, anxiety and other conditions.
They work by slowing down the central nervous system and decreasing brain activity. The effects typically last between 6 hours to over 24 hours. Benzodiazepines are also produced and distributed illicitly.
Prescription benzodiazepines include diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and clonazepam (Klonopin), and illicit benzodiazepines include etizolam, flualprazolam, and flubromazolam. It is important to use benzodiazepines only in the amount, frequency, and manner prescribed by a doctor.
Benzodiazepines may cause a variety of adverse reactions:
- Slowed reaction times
- Loss of motor control
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Memory problems
- Restlessness
- Delirium
- Aggression
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- Paranoia.."
Overdose
No comments:
Post a Comment