Benzodiazepine use disorder

Benzodiazepine Use Disorder (BUD) represents a significant and growing challenge in the realm of addiction medicine and public health. Benzodiazepines, while effective for several clinical conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, possess properties that make them susceptible to misuse. This disorder is characterized by the compulsive, unsanctioned use of benzodiazepines, often with detrimental consequences for the individual's physical and psychological health.

Definition and Classification

Benzodiazepine Use Disorder refers to a pattern of benzodiazepine consumption that deviates from prescribed or medically sanctioned use. The disorder can manifest as:

• Taking benzodiazepines without a prescription.
• Consuming doses higher than prescribed.
• Using benzodiazepines for recreational purposes, seeking euphoria, sedation, or to augment the effects of other substances.

Epidemiology

Benzodiazepines rank among the most frequently prescribed psychiatric medications globally. Given their widespread availability, they have become one of the most commonly misused classes of drugs, especially among those who abuse other substances like alcohol or opioids. The co-abuse of benzodiazepines with these substances can amplify the sedative effects, posing heightened risks of respiratory depression and death.

Mechanism of Action and Effects

Benzodiazepines function by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) at the GABA_A receptor, producing sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. When misused:

• The individual may experience effects akin to alcohol intoxication, including impaired judgment, motor incoordination, and slurred speech.
• The calming effect can appeal to recreational users, particularly those who seek relief from agitation resulting from stimulant use or those looking to offset the effects of other psychoactive substances.

Routes of Administration

While oral consumption is the most common route of administration for therapeutic use, recreational users might:

• Ingest the drug orally.
• Crush and snort the medication.
• Dissolve and inject the solution, which can lead to a rapid and intense onset of effects but is associated with significant risks, including vascular damage and infections.

Risks and Complications

Chronic unsanctioned use of benzodiazepines carries various risks:

• Dependence and Withdrawal: Prolonged use can result in physical dependence, characterized by withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. These symptoms can range from insomnia and anxiety to more severe manifestations like seizures.
• Cognitive Impairment: Persistent use may lead to memory issues, decreased attention span, and other cognitive deficits.
• Risk of Overdose: Especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids or alcohol.

Management and Treatment

Treating Benzodiazepine Use Disorder involves:

• Gradual dose reduction to minimize withdrawal effects.
• Behavioral interventions, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and motivational enhancement therapy.
• Support groups and rehabilitation programs.
• Addressing co-morbid psychiatric disorders, if present.

Prevention

Efforts to curtail the unsanctioned use of benzodiazepines include:

• Educating healthcare providers on appropriate prescribing practices.
• Implementing prescription monitoring programs.
• Public awareness campaigns about the dangers of non-medical benzodiazepine use.

Conclusion

Benzodiazepine Use Disorder underscores the broader challenges associated with the misuse of prescription medications. Comprehensive understanding, early recognition, and appropriate intervention are pivotal in addressing this public health concern.

References

• Lader, M. (2011). Benzodiazepines revisited—will we ever learn? Addiction, 106(12), 2086-2109.
• Olfson, M., King, M., & Schoenbaum, M. (2015). Benzodiazepine use in the United States. JAMA Psychiatry, 72(2), 136-142.
• Votaw, V. R., Geyer, R., Rieselbach, M. M., & McHugh, R. K. (2019). The epidemiology of benzodiazepine misuse: A systematic review. Drug and Alcohol Dependence, 200, 95-114.

See Also

• Substance Use Disorders
• GABAergic Drugs
• Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome
• Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs

Benzodiazipines

• Alprazolam
• Chlordiazepoxide
• Diazepam (Oral)
• Estazolam
• Flurazepam
• Lorazepam
• Midazolam
• Oxazepam
• Quazepam
• Temazepam
• Triazolam

Anticonvulsants Drugs

• Clobazam
• Clonazepam
• Clorazepate
• Diazepam (Intravenous)

Drug class for Benzodiazepine use disorder

Anticonvulsants, and Benzodiazepines]