Benzodiazepines
Calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and causing drowsiness.
Why it gets prescribed
Prescribed SHORT-term for severe anxiety, insomnia, or specific situations such as before a procedure or during seizures.
What to watch for
Drowsiness, slowed reactions, and falls risk — particularly in older people. It affects driving more than users realise.
Stopping — read this before you stop anything
Stopping abruptly after regular use can be dangerous. Reduction needs a plan led by the prescriber, not done alone at home.
Tell the prescriber and the pharmacist
Alcohol and opioid painkillers combine dangerously with this group. Declare everything to every prescriber.
Worth asking
- How long is this expected to last
- What is my plan for coming off
- Can I drive