Definition: Benzodiazepines include a group of medications that act on the central nervous system to influence behavior in a calming way. Benzodiazepenes help treat insomnia, anxiety, irritability, muscle spasms and related syndromes and symptoms. Benzodiazepines can cause addiction when used for long periods in large doses. Most healthcare providers prescribe the lowest dose possible to achieve results. Common examples of benzodiazepines include:
- xanax
- ativan
- valium
- lexomil
Pronunciation: ben-zho-dye-aa-zeh-peen
Also Known As: benzos psychoactive drugs anxiolytic
Alternate Spellings: benzodiazapine
Common Misspellings: benzodiazepene