4.11 The risks of sleeping medicines and tranquilizers see also 3.11 

Benzodiazepines have a sedating effect but because of their potential for producing agitation and tantrums can also cause a lot of unrest. But the greatest danger lies in fatal combinations:

1 + 1 = 3 Certain benzodiazepines - particularly the fast-acting kind - are popular in the drug world because of the mellow 'high' they give. Used together with other drugs, however, they can be life-threatening. The effects of heroin and other opiates, for instance, are intensified with benzodiazepines, creating the known 1 + 1 = 3 effect. With a little bad luck the 1 + 1 = 4 effect is induced, or the user may die from heart failure.

Alcohol

Combined with alcohol, benzodiazepines can be fatal. One might well survive a 'good' dose of Valium but taken in combination with alcohol one can fall into a coma.

Short term

* Drowsiness.

* Weak muscles.

* Indifference.

* Overestimation.

* Reduction in concentration and reflexes.

M edium term

* Weight increase.

Are benzodiazepines addictive?

Yes. Particularly in psychological terms, there is a potential for a quick and heavy dependence. Also with benzodiazepines, tolerance develops: An increasing amount is needed to maintain the same effect.

Can the use of benzodiazepines lead to aggression?