Fast Facts: Minor Tranquillizers

Examples:

CHLORDIAZEPOXIDE (Librium*), DIAZEPAM (Valium*)
FLURAZEPAM (Dalmane*), OXAZEPAM (Serax*)
*Registered trademark (these do not necessarily represent all the trademarks under which these generic drugs are sold).

Effects
(i.e., 3 week prescription)

• Used to control anxiety, to relax muscles, and to bring about sleep
• Higher doses can affect bodily functions (e.g. slow reflexes, impaired coordination, short-term memory loss)
• Effects are increased if taken with alcohol or other depressants

• Possible development of physical and psychological dependence
• Occasionally, unexpected reactions may occur (sleep disturbances, personality changes)
• Possible effect on learning, memory and body movement skills
• Withdrawal may include lack of energy, sleeplessness, headaches, trembling and/or nausea

High Risk Groups
High consumption of minor tranquillizers may lead to problems for any group. Presently, the elderly, the chronically ill and women tend to be the highest consumers of minor tranquillizers. Use of minor tranquillizers during pregnancy may affect the fetus. Expectant mothers should never use any drug without the advice of their doctors.

Tranquillizers and The Law
Minor tranquillizers are listed in the Food and Drug Act as Prescription Required Drugs. It is illegal to be in possession of this type of drug without a physician's prescription.

For additional information, please contact one of the following Addictions Services Offices.