Benzodiazepine
Benzodiazepine is commonly used to promote muscle relaxation as well as to treat a range of psychological conditions such as anxiety, bipolar disorder, and panic disorders. Benzodiazepines are often prescribed to patients who suffer from back spasms, causing twitching and tightening to occur in lower back muscles. Most adults will suffer some type of back pain in their adult life. Fortunately, most back pain cases can be quickly healed with a little rest and relaxation. For those who suffer long-term back pain, the help of a doctor and medication may become necessary.
What is Benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepine is a psychoactive drug that has a complex chemical structure consisting of combination benzene and diazepine. Benzodiazepines are typically categorized based on the length of time that they work. Depending on the severity of the condition, your doctor will either prescribe short-acting, intermediate-acting or long-acting benzodiazepine.
Below is a list of benzodiazepines commonly prescribed to treat muscle spasms, anxiety, and other disorders:
- alprazolam
- chlordiazepoxide
- clonazepam
- diazepam
- lorazepam
- flunitrazepam
- triazolam
The above benzodiazepines list is just a sample of some of the most commonly prescribed types of benzodiazepines. For muscle spasms that can cause pain and discomfort in the back, diazepam is the most common benzodiazepine prescribed by doctors and chiropractors.
What is Benzodiazepine Used to Treat?
The benzodiazepines list is used to treat a range of conditions such as anxiety, panic attacks, alcohol dependence, seizures, insomnia, and muscle spasms. Benzodiazepine produces a sedative and relaxing affect that is especially helpful in treating severe anxiety or similar conditions that can be debilitating and difficult to cope with.
Common Side Effects of Benzodiazepine
Benzodiazepine affects every patient differently, but there are some which seem to be very common across the board. Here are a couple of the most common benzodiazepine side effects:
- Drowsiness: Benzodiazepine is commonly used for its sedative effects. Unfortunately, some people suffer from severe sleepiness and drowsiness when taking benzodiazepines, leading to a lack of concentration.
- Dizziness: Dizziness is one of the more common benzodiazepine side effects. It can cause poor coordination, especially in elderly adults. Dizziness may result in tripping or falling, which can lead to broken bones or similar injuries.
- Impairment: The sedative and relaxing effects of benzodiazepines can cause impairment, preventing proper operation of motor vehicles or similar machinery. Patients should refrain from operating motor vehicles or similar machinery.
- Lower Libido: Many patients who take benzodiazepines suffer from a decreased libido and sexual dysfunction while taking the medication.
- Depression: As a relaxant, benzodiazepines can cause depression in some users. Depression is especially common in those taking benzodiazepines for a prolonged period of time.
- Benzodiazepine Withdrawal: Unfortunately, long-term benzodiazepine use may result in tolerance and dependence on the drug. When patients abruptly stop taking the medication there is a risk of benzodiazepine withdrawal, causing side effects such as tremors, suicidal behavior, muscle spasms and insomnia. It’s important to talk with your doctor about any side effects you feel while taking benzodiazepine as well as any side effects that occur when you stop taking the medication.
Deciding if Benzodiazepine Is Right for You
If you have muscle spasms or suffer from back pain, talk to your doctor about the list of benzodiazepines to see if one is right for you. They can help you determine what type of medication and treatment is best suited for you based on your individual condition. Although benzodiazepine is often prescribed to treat the pain and discomfort associated with back spasms, this type of medication may not be for everyone. Only your doctor can help you to decide if benzodiazepine is the best medication for your needs.