Page "Benzodiazepine" Paragraph 5

Benzodiazepines possess sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, and amnesic actions, which are useful in a variety of indications such as alcohol dependence, seizures, anxiety, panic, agitation and insomnia.

Most are administered orally ; however, they can also be given intravenously, intramuscularly or rectally.

In general, benzodiazepines are well-tolerated and are safe and effective drugs in the short term for a wide range of conditions.

Tolerance can develop to their effects and there is also a risk of dependence, and upon discontinuation a withdrawal syndrome may occur.

These factors, combined with other possible secondary effects after prolonged use such as psychomotor, cognitive, or memory impairments, limit their long-term applicability.

The effects of long-term use or misuse include the tendency to cause or worsen cognitive deficits, depression and anxiety.