Benzodiazepines (BZDs)

Class at a glance

• Rapid GABA-A positive modulators

Members / distinctions

• Fast effect; no delayed antidepressant action
• Opioid combination → respiratory danger

Safety / monitoring

• Anxiety, agitation, seizures, withdrawal
• Also sedation/insomnia depending on agent

Safety distinctions

• Sedation, falls, amnesia + dependence
• Withdrawal can cause seizures/delirium

Self-check

• What can benzodiazepine withdrawal cause?
  Seizures and delirium.
• What combination creates major respiratory danger with benzodiazepines?
  Opioids.

Drugs in this class (22)

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