Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines (also referred to as benzos) are psychoactive drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. These drugs work by magnifying the efficiency and effects of the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) by acting on its receptors. The prominent effects of benzodiazepines include sedation, muscle relaxation, disinhibition, and amnesia. Short-acting benzodiazepines are recommended for treating insomnia while long-acting ones are recommended for the treatment of anxiety disorders.

The core structure of benzodiazepines

Subjective effects

The primary subjective effects of any benzodiazepine are # key components which occurs in varying levels of intensity across a broad range of substances. These effects are listed and defined in detail within their own dedicated articles below:

• Sedation
• Amnesia
• Thought deceleration
• Inhibition suppression
• Respiratory Depression

Alongside of these, a variety of non-essential secondary effects are often present. These generally include but are not limited to:

• Euphoria
• Suppression of information processing
• Dizzness
• Loss of motor control

Examples

• Alprazolam
• Temazepam
• Clonazepam
• Diazepam
• Lorazepam
• Phenazepam

See Also

• Specific Substances
• Entactogens
• Nootropics
• Stimulants
• Hallucinogens
• Depressants