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[81] [82] Concerns regarding the long-term effects of benzodiazepines have been raised since 1980. [83] These concerns are still not fully answered. A review in 2006 of the literature on use of benzodiazepine and nonbenzodiazepine hypnotics concluded that more research is needed to evaluate the long-term effects of hypnotic drugs. [84]
Short- and intermediate-acting benzodiazepines are preferred for the treatment of insomnia; longer-acting benzodiazepines are recommended for the treatment of anxiety. [ 6 ] Benzodiazepines are generally viewed as safe and effective for short-term use of two to four weeks, [ 7 ] although cognitive impairment and paradoxical effects such as ...
Long-acting benzodiazepines with long-acting active metabolites, such as diazepam and chlordiazepoxide, are often prescribed for benzodiazepine or alcohol withdrawal as well as for anxiety if constant dose levels are required throughout the day. Shorter-acting benzodiazepines are often preferred for insomnia due to their lesser hangover effect.
Triazolam is short-acting, is lipophilic, and is metabolized hepatically via oxidative pathways. Triazolam produces one short-acting active metabolite, alpha-hydroxytriazolam, which is suspected to be of minor clinical significance. [31] The half-life of triazolam is only 2 hours making it a very short acting benzodiazepine drug. [32]
Nitrazepam, sold under the brand name Mogadon among others, [2] [3] is a hypnotic drug of the benzodiazepine class used for short-term relief from severe, disabling anxiety and insomnia. [4] It also has sedative (calming) properties, [ 5 ] as well as amnestic (inducing forgetfulness), anticonvulsant , and skeletal muscle relaxant effects.
Before taking temazepam, one should ensure that at least 8 hours are available to dedicate to sleep. Failing to do so can increase the side effects of the drug. Like all benzodiazepines, the use of this drug in combination with alcohol potentiates the side effects, and can lead to toxicity and death.
Diazepam, sold under the brand name Valium among others, is a medicine of the benzodiazepine family that acts as an anxiolytic. [15] It is used to treat a range of conditions, including anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal syndrome, muscle spasms, insomnia, and restless legs syndrome. [15]
Flurazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine and is sometimes used in patients who have difficulty in maintaining sleep, though benzodiazepines with intermediate half-lives such as loprazolam, lormetazepam, and temazepam are also indicated for patients with difficulty maintaining sleep.