Benzodiazapines
A class of psychoactive drugs used primarily for treating anxiety and insomnia
| Drug Information | |
|---|---|
| Image | Benzodiazepine_core_structure.svg |
| Width | 200px |
| Caption | |
| Synonyms | |
| Identifiers | |
| CAS Number | 132-65-0 |
| ATC Prefix | N05BA |
| ATC Suffix | |
| PubChem | 927 |
| DrugBank | DB00829 |
| ChemSpider ID | 902 |
| UNII | Q3JTX2Q7TU |
| KEGG | D00283 |
| ChEBI | 22720 |
| ChEMBL | 656 |
| IUPAC Name | Varies by specific benzodiazepine |
| Chemical Data | |
| C | |
| H | |
| N | |
| O | |
| Molecular Weight | |
Benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that act as central nervous system depressants. They are primarily used for treating anxiety, insomnia, and several other conditions. Benzodiazepines enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA_A receptor, resulting in sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties.
History[edit | edit source]
Benzodiazepines were first introduced in the 1960s, with chlordiazepoxide (Librium) being the first to be marketed. Diazepam (Valium) soon followed and became one of the most prescribed medications in the world. The development of benzodiazepines marked a significant advancement in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia, offering a safer alternative to the barbiturates that were previously used.
Pharmacology[edit | edit source]
Benzodiazepines work by binding to the GABA_A receptor in the brain. This receptor is a ligand-gated chloride channel that, when activated by GABA, allows chloride ions to enter the neuron, making it more negatively charged and less likely to fire. Benzodiazepines increase the frequency of channel opening events, thereby enhancing the inhibitory effect of GABA.
Medical Uses[edit | edit source]
Benzodiazepines are used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of benzodiazepines include drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased alertness. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal syndrome.
Risks and Controversies[edit | edit source]
The use of benzodiazepines has been controversial due to their potential for abuse and dependence. Long-term use is associated with cognitive impairment and an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease.
Also see[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
