Benzodiazepines - their use and dependence.

As we all know, Benzodiazepines are sedatives.

Used primarily for sedation, these are also used in emergency situations in seizures (Clonazepam for myoclonus and other Benzodiazepines for seizures and alcohol withdrawal). They are also helpful for anxiety control.

Short acting benzodiazepines are better avoided as dependence and tolerance develop quickly with them.

One of the commonest mistakes one sees is the use of Alprazolam for treating anxiety. It is much better to use longer acting drugs like Clonazepam or Lorazepam as there is less of a rebound with them.

Withdrawals manifest as hyperactivity, agitation and siezures. One symptom is so typical that you MUST know it - formication (sensation of insects crawling over the patient).