Benzodiazepines, also known as "benzos," are a class of medications that slow down activity in the brain and nervous system. They are most commonly used to treat anxiety and related mental health conditions, as well as brain-related diseases. The most common benzodiazepines are prescription drugs such as Valium, Xanax, Halcion, Ativan, and Klonopin. Shorter-acting benzodiazepines are used to manage insomnia. Benzodiazepines work by telling the brain to release a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which makes the nervous system less active.

Benzodiazepines are classified as controlled substances in many countries, including the United States. They can be abused by adolescents and young adults who take the drug orally or crush it up and snort it to get high. Benzodiazepines are associated with amnesia, hostility, irritability, and vivid or disturbing dreams. They slow down the central nervous system and may cause sleepiness and relaxed mood. Overdose effects of benzodiazepines include extreme drowsiness, confusion, impaired coordination, decreased reflexes, respiratory depression, coma, and possible death.

It is important to note that benzodiazepines should only be taken at the lowest dose for the shortest possible length of time, as dependence can develop rapidly. The most common side effects of benzodiazepines are drowsiness, sleepiness, or dizziness, which can make it dangerous for people taking benzodiazepines to drive or operate machinery. Mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol is also dangerous because this is two sedatives actively mixing together.