Tranquilizers

Tranquilizers are legal drugs prescribed by doctors to treat a variety of conditions. There are two broad classes of tranquilizers. 'Major tranquilizers' are used to treat psychotic illnesses like schizophrenia. 'Minor tranquilizers', or benzodiazepines, have a calming, sleep-promoting effect.

Tranquilizers are prescribed to:

Treat the symptoms of anxiety disorders

Relieve insomnia

Assist in treatment of symptoms experienced by cancer patients

Control epilepsy

Assist in relaxing muscles during endoscopy procedures.

Recreational use of tranquilizers

Some people take minor tranquilizers recreationally, as a means of getting high. It is important to know that the misleading label of 'minor' is for classification purposes. Contrary to its implications, 'minor' doesn't mean that this family of tranquilizer is weak or low dose. Some common examples of minor tranquilizers include diazepam (Valium), oxazepam (Serapax), nitazepam (Mogadon) and flunitrazepam (Rohypnol). Minor tranquilizers are extremely popular prescription drugs.

How minor tranquilizers work

Minor tranquilizers are central nervous system depressants, which means they slow down the workings of the brain. They only mask the symptoms of anxiety or insomnia, and don't solve the underlying causes of these conditions. Minor tranquilizers are highly addictive, whether they are taken under medical supervision or used recreationally. It is generally recommended that they only be used for just days or weeks at a time. Other means of conquering anxiety or insomnia - such as stress management, exercise or relaxation techniques - should be investigated as long term solutions.

Common effects

The effects of minor tranquilizers depend on the strength of the dose taken, the physiology of the user and their state of mind at the time of taking the drug. Generally, some of the common effects of minor tranquilizers include:

Relief from anxiety

Muscle relaxation

Sleepiness

A sense of being disconnected or detached from reality

Dizziness

Loss of inhibitions.

Use during pregnancy

Tranquilizers should not be used by pregnant women as they may pose a risk to the developing baby.

The symptoms of overdose

In larger doses, minor tranquilizers produce a similar effect to drunkenness. The user loses coordination, slurs their speech and has problems with thinking, concentration and memory. Severe mood swings, uncontrollable rages, skin rashes, nausea and problems with sleeping are other common side effects of large doses. The user runs the risk of coma or death if they combine minor tranquilizers with other drugs, such as alcohol, pain-killers, antidepressants, antihistamines, marijuana or heroin.

Dependence, tolerance and withdrawal

Taking minor tranquilizers regularly can lead to psychological dependence. The user feels they need the drug in order to cope with daily life. After only a short amount of time, a person can develop a tolerance, which means they need to take larger and larger doses to achieve the same effect. Some people experience a drop in effect after only a few days. Over time, the body comes to depend on minor tranquilizers in order to function at its best. Withdrawal symptoms can be mild to moderate or severe and can include panic attacks, nausea and vomiting, depression, sleep disturbances, tremors, sweating, delirium and paranoia. It is recommended that a user withdraw under medical supervision.

Damage caused by long term use

Using minor tranquilizers on a regular basis can lead to significant health problems, including:

Lethargy

Loss of sex drive

Increased appetite and weight gain

Irritability and aggression

Nausea

Sleeping difficulties

Confusion

Loss of motivation

Anxiety.

Type of help available

Treatment options for drug addiction include detoxification, individual counseling and group therapy. See your doctor for information and referral, or contact an alcohol and drug service in your area.

Where to get help

Your doctor

Alcohol and other drug service

If an overdose is suspected, call an ambulance immediately

Things to remember

Minor tranquillizers are nervous system depressants commonly prescribed to treat a number of conditions.

They are highly addictive and should only be used as an emergency measure for a few days or weeks.

Withdrawal from use should be gradual and performed under medical supervision.