Drug Index

Tranquilizers

Also known as: Valium (Diazepam), Xanax (Alprazolam), Quaalude (‘ludes), Librium (Chlordiazepoxide), Ativan (Lorazepam), Serax (Oxazepam)

Medical Uses

Similar to sedative-hypnotics. Introduced as "tranquillizers" because they produce calm without sleepiness, although sleep may occur as a result of relaxation and reduced anxiety. Replaced barbiturates in treatment of many disorders. Usually prescribed to treat anxiety and nervousness, relax muscle tension, control certain types of muscle spasm, and treat less severe sleep problems. Generally recommended for short-term use only.

Short Term Effects

Feelings of well-being, loss of inhibition, relaxed muscle tension, reduced mental alertness and mildly impaired co-ordination and balance. On rare occasions, and usually at high doses, paradoxical reactions such as rage, personality changes, and sleep disturbances occur. Side effects such as skin rashes, nausea, and dizziness have been reported. Driving motor vehicles and operating machinery should be avoided by those taking tranquillizers. It is particularly hazardous to take them together with alcohol, or other sedatives and antihistamines (cold, cough and allergy remedies).

Long Term Effects

Some tranquillizers (such as Diazepam) accumulate in body tissues during sustained use. In fetuses, Diazepam has been found to accumulate in the liver, brain, heart, and lungs. After birth, these babies may then show withdrawal symptoms. Prolonged use may lead to increased rather than reduced aggressiveness in some users.

Tolerance and Dependance

Regular use induces tolerance, making increased doses necessary to produce the desired effect. Psychological and physical dependence can also occur: manifested by intense craving for the drug if it is not present. Withdrawal symptoms include sleeplessness, sweating, delirium, convulsions and even death. Some people think these drugs are harmless because signs of addiction in users are not always apparent.

Legal Status

In Canada, benzodiazepines and their salts and derivatives are governed by the provisions of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act applicable to Schedule IV. Trafficking, possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession for the purpose of exporting, production, import and export offences are punishable on summary conviction by imprisonment for up to one year or on indictment by imprisonment for up to three years.

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