Signs of recent Benzodiazepine use include calmness, relaxation and sleepiness, decreased anxiety and enlarged pupils.
WHAT?
Benzodiazepines (pronounced ben-zoh-die-az-a-peens) are a highly effective prescribed medication used to treat anxiety and sleeplessness. They can seem like a miracle cure for young people with anxiety, panic disorders, social phobias, flashbacks and nightmares however daily use for longer than 4 weeks can lead to dependency and when mixed with other drugs (such as alcohol) have been implicated in overdoses.
They are legal when prescribed by a doctor however can also be bought illegally on the street.
OTHER NAMES
Benzos, Xanax, (Alprazolam), Diaz, Valium, Vallies, (Diaxepam), Tranx, Sleepers, Downers, Serras (Serepax), Moggies (Mogadon), Normies (Normison) Temazes (Temazapam), Sleeping Pills, Tranquilisers.
SIGNS THAT SOMEONE MIGHT BE USING OR DEALING IN MY HOUSE
Benzodiazepines are pills or capsules purchased from pharmacies with a prescription. They come in various shapes and colours and are usually swallowed and occasionally injected or taken rectally. Benzodiazepine refers to a whole family of drugs and many different brand names. Call YoDAA if you are unsure whether or not a medication is a Benzodiazepine.
HOW COMMON IS USAGE
Many experts claim Benzodiazepines are ‘over prescribed’ in Australia, making them readily available on the street.
In 2010, 3.2 per cent of the Australian population had used tranquillisers/sleeping pills (including benzodiazepines) for non-medical purposes (National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2010).
HOW CAN I TELL IF A YOUNG PERSON IS USING?
Signs of recent Benzodiazepine use include calmness, relaxation and sleepiness, decreased anxiety and enlarged pupils.
Many young people stumble upon Benzodiazepines as something that helps them with untreated mental health symptoms. For such young people, Benzodiazepines may help them to feel more confident and less troubled however these temporary gains can lead to greater difficulties if dependency sets in. Being there for a young person and helping them to find safer ways to deal with whatever it is that drives them to use is key.
A young person who takes Benzodiazepines daily (regardless of whether it is prescribed or not) may experience anxiety, agitation and tremors if they suddenly do not have access to the medication. This can progress into more severe withdrawal symptoms. This should be treated as a medical emergency and 000 called.
Didn’t find what you are looking for? We know families and carers can be pretty worried when they are looking for info so we’ve just given you the most relevant fast facts for families and carers. For a more comprehensive guide we recommend the ADF’s fact sheet. Remember, we understand how stressful it can be when you are worried about a young person. Talk to YoDAA for free, confidential info, advice and referral.
