There has been a crackdown on prescribing benzodiazepines in Victoria. However they are still able to be obtained illegally. They are often implicated in overdoses, especially when mixed with other depressant drugs.

WHAT

Benzodiazepines (pronounced ben-zoh-die-az-a-peens) are depressants, also known as tranquillisers. Benzodiazepines are legal only when medically prescribed.

OTHER NAMES

Brand name: Xanax (Alprazolam), Valium, Diaxepam, Serepax, Mogadon, Normison, Temazapam, Sleeping pills and tranquilisers.

Nickname: Benzos, Diaz, Vallies, Tranx, Sleepers, Downers, Serras, Moggies, Normies, Temazes, Bricks, Zannies.

HOW COMMON IS USAGE?

1.6per cent of the Australian population had used tranquillisers/sleeping pills (including benzodiazepines) for non-medical purposes (National Drug Strategy Household Survey, 2013).

APPEARANCE

Tablets, capsules, injections or suppositories (tablets inserted rectally).

USE

Ingested or sometimes injected.

EFFECTS

Calmness, relaxation and sleepiness lasting 2.5 hours (short-acting) to 160 hours (long-acting). Dependence is associated with strong withdrawal symptoms such as vomiting, anxiety and depression.

OVERDOSE

Slow breathing, cold and clammy skin, blue lips, inability to be roused or woken. An ambulance should be called if any of these symptoms occur.

COMMON MIXERS

Other depressants such as alcohol or cannabis, which increase the effects and likelihood of overdose. Under the guidance of a GP can be used to assist with stimulant comedown.