Benzodiazepines are a class of central nervous system depressant drugs that are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They were discovered in 1954 by an Austrian chemist working for Hoffmann-La Roche and introduced in 1960 as Librium. Benzodiazepines work by suppressing the central nervous system and are used to treat anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, mood disorders, and alcohol or substance withdrawal, among other conditions. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can cause anxiety, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, seizures, and hyperactivity if stopped abruptly.

1. Benzodiazepines
By: Kelley, Tim, Frank, Sonia

2. What is a Benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepines are used to help relieve anxiety and
in some cases are also used to help in cases of
insomnia sleep disorder.
They belong to a group of medicines known as the
central nervous system (CNS) depressants.

3. History of Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines were discovered but Austrian chemist Leo
Sternmbach in 1954. He was working for a pharmaceutical
company Hoffmann- La Roche.
In 1959 the drug was patented and it was introduced to the
world in 1960 as Librium.

4. Uses/Purposes of the Drug
Benzodiazepines are used for the following disorders: Anxiety
Disorders, Convulsive Disorders, Sleep Disorders, Mood
Disorders, Involuntary Movement Disorders and for
Intoxication and Withdrawal from alcohol and other
substances.The drug is also used with epilepsy and seizure
disorders as well as some forms of phobia.
The purpose of benzodiazepines is to help with mild causes of
anxiety, and to help treat social and specific phobia.

5. How does the Drug Moves Through The Body

6. Effects of Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are known for there hypnotic or sedative effect
on the body. The drug works to suppress the function of the
central nervous system.
The use of benzodiazepines can actually worsen sleep apnea and
breathing disorders.

7. What Happens During
Withdrawal?
During withdrawal, the symptoms are mainly anxiety-related.
Withdrawal can cause gastrointestinal problems and insomnia.
Stopping cold turkey can cause seizures and hyperactivity.

8. If Taken While Pregnant

9. Is the Drug Commonly mixed?

10. Recommended Treatment Issues