Anxiety Drugs Benzodiazepines
- Alprazolam Extended-Release (Xanax XR)
- Alprazolam oral solution (Alprazolam Intensol)
- Alprazolam tablets (Niravam, Xanax)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Libritabs, Librium)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene, Tranxene T, Tranxene-SD)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Oxazepam (Serax)
HOW DO THESE DRUGS WORK?
Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter known as gammaaminobutyric acid (GABA). They bind to GABA receptors, which slows down the activity of nerve cells. This causes an inhibitory and relaxant effect.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
These drugs provide rapid relief for those with anxiety.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
- Agitation
- Increased anxiety
- Confusion
- Memory impairment
- Lack of coordination
- Speech difficulties
- Light-headedness
- Constipation
MAJOR CAUTIONS
Benzodiazepines can be addictive, particularly in those with a history of drug or alcohol dependency. Also, people can experience withdrawal symptoms when stopping their use suddenly, such as blurred vision, decreased concentration, decreased mental clarity, diarrhea, increased awareness of noise or bright light, loss of appetite and weight, and seizures.Work with a doctor to gradually wean yourself off these medications to avoid their withdrawal effects. Combining these drugs with alcohol is potentially lethal.
KNOWN DRUG INTERACTIONS
- Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
- Itraconazole (Sporanox)
- Some HIV or AIDS medications
FOOD OR SUPPLEMENT INTERACTIONS
Do not combine with alcohol, as the interaction can be deadly. Alcohol can increase drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness. Do not take grapefruit juice while on this class of medications. Do not combine with kava supplements.
NUTRIENT DEPLETION/IMBALANCE
This class of drugs can deplete the following:
- Calcium
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