Benzodiazepines are prescribed for the management of
anxiety, sleeping disorders, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Benzodiazepines are widely viewed as safe drugs that have
relatively few side effects. However, high dosages over
prolonged periods can lead to tolerance, which leads to a
loss of efficacy and/or physical and psychological
dependence, resulting in severe withdrawal symptoms.
Benzodiazepines can also be abused in cases of crime,
suicide, and drug-facilitated sexual assault. While
benzodiazepine intoxication alone is rarely fatal,
concurrent use with alcohol or other drugs can be
life-threatening. For all of these reasons, additional
research into dosage and effects of benzodiazepines
is necessary
United States
