Health effects

Short-term effects
Medically benzodiazepines are intended to be prescribed for a period not exceeding one month (depending on the type of benzodiazepine used, its strength and the condition being treated) with a view to avoiding the development of tolerance and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.

If recommended doses are administered, and for only one to two months, general short-term effects include:

• relaxation
• calmness
• relief from tension and anxiety.
• When benzodiazepines are administered at higher doses similar effects to those of alcohol can be produced including:
• drowsiness
• over-sedation
• sleepiness
• cognitive and coordination impairment
• mood swings
• aggressive outbursts.

It is common for recreational users to take high doses of benzodiazepines as they are not aware of recommended dosages, and are administering to achieve a desired state.

Long-term effects
Long-term use (exceeding one month) of benzodiazepines is not recommended. Tolerance can develop as the body adapts to the same prescribed dose over a prolonged period of time leading to physical dependence and addiction. Long-term use of benzodiazepines may cause:

• drowsiness
• lack of motivation
• unclear thoughts, memory loss
• behavioural and personality changes
• anxiety, irritability
• aggression
• difficulty sleeping and disturbing dreams
• nausea, headaches
• skin rash
• menstrual and sexual problems
• greater appetite, weight gain
• lack of coordination, vulnerability to accidents
• depression
• slurred speech.

Long-term use of benzodiazepines will commonly cause the same conditions that the drug has been prescribed to relieve.

Any adverse effects experienced while on benzodiazepines should be discussed with a health professional. Discontinuation of long-term or heavy use of benzodiazepines - whether by a recreational user or someone using for medical reasons- requires medical attention to help prevent withdrawal syndrome or a relapse to the underlying condition.