You benzodiazepines popularly known as “Black Streja” These are medicines that act in the brain by reducing brain activity through action on GABA (gamma-amatebutric acid), the main inhibitory neurotransmitter of the central nervous system.
Thanks to its effects anxiolytics, sedatives, anticonvulsants and muscle relaxation, have a wide variety of clinical indications, such as the treatment of anxious disorders (paroxysmal anxiety, panic seizures, phobias), insomnia, control and prevention of seizures, relief of alcohol abstinence, preoperative sedation or examinations and muscle relaxation.
In the 1960s, the first benzodiazepinic was launched, the chloriazpoxide . Since then, other compounds have hit the market, such as Diazepam (Valium®), Bromazepam (Lexotan®), Lorazepam (Lorax®), Midazolam (Dormonid®) and clonazepam (Rivotril®). These drugs replaced barbiturates, which until then were the treatment of anxiety and insomnia choice, because they have greater safety, effectiveness and less side effects.
The main advantage of benzodiazepines is their rapid beginning of action and safety when used under medical follow -up. However, it is essential that the patient be informed about the associated adverse effects.
Put reduce brain activity it is common for drowsiness, slowness, tiredness, motor coordination problems, imbalance, dizziness and dragged speech. In the elderly, there is a higher risk of falls, fractures and hospitalizations. Headache, dry mouth, libido reduction and gastric malaise may also occur.
Although the desired effect is the reduction of anxiety and the induction of sleep, it is important to warn of the possibility of paradoxical reaction – when opposite effects, such as agitation, aggression and disinhibition arise. The use combined with alcohol is contraindicated as it enhances the adverse effects. Patients with sleep apnea should be cautious as medication may aggravate breathing obstructive episodes during sleep.
Long -term danger and dependence
The safety of benzodiazepines is well established in short -term use. However, prolonged use – for months or years – is associated with the development of tolerance (need for higher doses for the same effect) and dependence. Dependence is marked by compulsive use and abstinence symptoms in the lack of substance, which may include intense anxiety, insomnia, tremors, sweating, palpitations, irritability, seizures and, in severe cases, psychosis.
Benzodiazepines are therefore widely used and effective drugs for rapid relief from various conditions, such as anxiety, insomnia and seizures. However, it is essential that its use is done with medical advice considering the risks associated with prolonged use, side effects and dependence potential. The patient should be well-informed about the benefits and limitations of treatment, ensuring a conscious, safe and effective use .
*Text written by psychiatrist and sleep physician Márcio Zanini Dr. Márcio Zanini (CRM/SP 144.013 | RQE 31070 | RQE 310701)
This content was originally published in benzodiazepines: Understand the risks of “black stripe” medicines on the CNN Brazil website.
Source: CNN Brasil
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