Learning library · Medication education
BenzodiazepinesShort-term relief, used carefully
Fast relief for acute anxiety — plus a clear-eyed look at tolerance, dependence, interactions, and why they're used short-term and never stopped abruptly.
What benzodiazepines are
Benzodiazepines are calming medicines. They work quickly, which is why they can help with intense anxiety or panic. Names you may hear include lorazepam, clonazepam, alprazolam, and diazepam.
They slow down activity in the brain and nervous system. That brings relief, and it's also why they can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and slower reactions. This video is general education. Your own plan is something you and your provider decide together.
Where they fit
They're usually prescribed for a short time, or now and then, often while a longer-term treatment, like therapy or an antidepressant, has time to work.
Over time, the body can get used to them, so the same amount does less. That's called tolerance, and it's one reason they're used carefully.
The boxed warning
Benzodiazepines carry an FDA boxed warning, its strongest kind. Taken with opioid medicines, such as some prescription pain or cough medicines, they can cause extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, coma, and death. Tell your provider about every medicine you take.
The warning also covers misuse and addiction, and physical dependence, which can develop even when you take them exactly as prescribed.
That's why stopping suddenly, or cutting back quickly, can cause withdrawal, which can be serious and can include seizures. Some withdrawal symptoms last for weeks or months. Don't stop on your own. When it's time, you and your provider plan a gradual decrease together.
Using them safely
Alcohol adds to their effects, including on your breathing. Don't drive or use machinery until you know how the medicine affects you.
Keep them somewhere safe, and never share them. If you find yourself taking more than prescribed, craving them, or feeling you can't cope without them, tell your provider. That isn't a failure. It's important information. For treatment referrals and information, the SAMHSA National Helpline is free and confidential.
Getting help
Get emergency help right away for unusual dizziness, extreme sleepiness, slowed or difficult breathing, or if someone can't be woken: call 911. If you're struggling, or feel unsafe, call or text 988, any time.
Everything here is general information, not medical advice for you. Talk with your provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medicine.
3 min · captions with the CC button · 5 chapters · animated diagrams
Where this information comes from
- National Institute of Mental Health — Mental Health Medications
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration — FDA requiring Boxed Warning updated to improve safe use of benzodiazepine drug class
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration — New safety measures announced for opioid analgesics, prescription opioid cough products, and benzodiazepines
- MedlinePlus — Lorazepam