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Antianxiety drugs Benzodiazepines are used in the treatment of severe and disabling anxiety, or where people are becoming greatly distressed as a result of their anxiety. Benzodiazepines are generally used as a short term treatment, as they can be very addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms when used for longer durations – it is recommended as an emergency treatment, where benzodiazepines should not be used for more than 1 month.
These drugs are not usually helpful for conditions like schizophrenia or manic depression but may be used in emergency situations needing rapid tranquilisation. Benzodiazepines should also not be used for panic disorder.
This fact sheet contains the following information:
- How benzodiazepines work
- What different types of benzodiazepines are there?
- What are the possible side effects
- What about stopping benzodiazepine medications?
- How will my benzodiazepine affect other medication?
- Can I drink or drive on this medication?
- What about sex, pregnancy and medication?
IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please note that single copies of individual fact sheets are available free of charge to users of mental health services and their carers, but multiple copies are chargeable to organisations at the rates shown per copy. Photocopying of individual fact sheets by organisations is strictly prohibited.
