Benzodiazepines for social anxiety disorder

Examples

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Brand Name	Chemical Name
Xanax	alprazolam

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Librium	chlordiazepoxide

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Valium	diazepam

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Ativan	lorazepam

Brand Name	Chemical Name
Serax	oxazepam

How It Works

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Benzodiazepines are minor tranquilizers (sedatives) that prevent or reduce anxiety, sleeplessness, muscle spasms, seizures, and other problems by slowing down the central nervous system.

Why It Is Used

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Benzodiazepines are used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders.

How Well It Works

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Benzodiazepines are effective at reducing anxiety and nervous tension associated with social anxiety disorder.

Side Effects

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Possible side effects of benzodiazepines include:

• Drowsiness or dizziness.
• Lightheadedness.
• Fatigue.
• Blurred vision.
• Slurred speech.
• Memory loss.
• Muscle weakness.

See Drug Reference for a full list of side effects. (Drug Reference is not available in all systems.)

What To Think About

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It is possible to become addicted to benzodiazepines. You should consult your doctor before taking benzodiazepines if you are planning to become pregnant, have had a previous allergic reaction to them, or have glaucoma.

Do not use alcohol while taking benzodiazepines. Be careful driving your car or operating machinery since these medications can cause drowsiness or dizziness.

Complete the new medication information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you understand this medication.

Credits

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Author	Jeannette Curtis
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Denele Ivins
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry
Last Updated	August 27, 2007