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Benzodiazepine

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Substance

Benzodiazepines are a group of medications used as sedatives (tranquilizers), for sleep regulation, as anti-epileptic drugs, and as anesthetics. The best-known preparations are diazepam (Valium®), alprazolam (Xanax®), lorazepam (Temesta®), oxazepam (Seresta®), and midazolam (Dormicum®).

group

Downer

Forms of appearance

Benzodiazepines are usually offered as tablets, but they are also available as liquid injection solutions or nasal sprays.

The form of consumption

Benzodiazepines are usually swallowed as tablets. They can also be snorted. Very rarely are they injected.

dosage

The dose depends heavily on the specific product, individual tolerance, and consumption habits.

Be careful when mixing substances!

  • Alcohol

  • Codeine

  • GHB / GBL

  • Heroin

  • Opioids (painkillers)

Substance groups

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Effect

Anxiolytic, calming, sedative, muscle relaxant. Reduced cognitive function and recall. At high doses: slowed thinking, drowsiness, memory gaps ("blackout").

Onset of effect

After 15 minutes.

Duration of effect

Depending on the medication, 1.5 – 48 hours.

Risks and side effects

Fatigue, drowsiness, impaired concentration, low mood, and memory lapses. Motor skills are impaired, dizziness and muscle weakness occur, increasing the risk of falls. Higher doses may cause nausea, dry mouth, slowed breathing, and a drop in blood pressure.

Impaired memory, learning, and concentration are common side effects. Emotional blunting and dulling can occur, along with a reduced ability to assess risks. The risk of addiction with psychological and physical symptoms is high. If tolerance develops and the body is not supplied with the required amount of the substance, physical withdrawal symptoms occur. These are associated with muscle pain and twitching, cramps, and tremors, and can trigger life-threatening conditions such as epileptic seizures, confusion, and delirium.

Safer Use

  • Dosage information from colleagues who regularly consume benzodiazepines cannot be relied upon, as they are accustomed to the substances.

  • The contents of medications purchased on the black market or online are often unclear. The exact ingredients can be found through a drug-checking service.

  • Avoid mixing substances, especially with other downers, as this can lead to respiratory arrest and circulatory collapse.

  • Consume in a quiet environment and not alone.

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