Benzodiazepines

-- { Benzos, Blues, Bars, Tranks, Xans } --

Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription drugs which usually come in the form of tablets. They are primarily used to treat anxiety and insomnia due to their depressant effect. Recreational users typically take benzos for their euphoric, relaxant and sedative effects.

Introduction Effects Dosage Trip Reports Interactions Reagent Testing Harm Reduction Risks The Law References

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines, often abbreviated as 'benzos', are a class of psychoactive drugs that have a calming and sedative effect on the body. These drugs are widely prescribed for a range of conditions, including anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. The structure of benzodiazepines allows them to enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA-A receptor, resulting in sedative, hypnotic (sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. Commonly recognized medications in this class include drugs like, alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), and lorazepam (Ativan).

How it Works

Benzodiazepines work by interacting with the GABA-A receptor, a type of receptor in the brain that responds to the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian central nervous system, which means it reduces the activity of neurons. When GABA attaches to a GABA receptor, it opens a channel that allows chloride ions to enter the neuron, making it more negative and therefore less likely to fire. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of GABA by binding to a specific site on the GABA-A receptor, increasing the frequency of the chloride ion channel opening. This leads to more inhibitory effects: enhanced sedation, muscle relaxation, and reduction of anxiety.

History

The development of benzodiazepines as a class of drugs began in the mid-20th century. The first benzodiazepine, chlordiazepoxide (Librium), was accidentally discovered in 1955 by Leo Sternbach, a chemist working for the pharmaceutical company Hoffmann–La Roche. Sternbach identified the sedative effects of the compound and patented it in 1957. Following extensive clinical trials, chlordiazepoxide was marketed in 1960, and it was quickly followed by the introduction of diazepam (Valium) in 1963. The success of these two medications led to the development of several other benzodiazepine drugs, each with slightly different properties, durations of action, and potency. However, since the 1980s, concerns about their potential for dependence and withdrawal issues have led to more cautious prescribing practices.