Benzodiazepines are a group of depressant drugs. There are many drugs in this group and some, such as diazepam (Valium), are prescribed as medicines in the UK.

They are generally prescribed for anxiety or occasionally sleeping problems. Other benzodiazepines are not licensed or generally prescribed in the UK, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and etizolam, but are prescribed in other countries.

Street benzodiazepines

In recent years, a number of benzodiazepine-type new psychoactive substances (NPS) have emerged. These are drugs that have been newly developed or developed years ago but have recently resurfaced. In the UK, many 'street benzos' contain an NPS benzodiazepine, like etizolam, rather than historically familiar drugs like diazepam.

'Street benzos' are sometimes sold to look like genuine medicines in branded counterfeit packaging, but they are most commonly found as pressed pills sold loose in bags.

'Street benzos' may be mis-sold as diazepam but they are often referred to using generic, interchangeable terms such as vallies, blues and benzos.

In the UK, most 'street benzos' are controlled by the Misuse of Drugs Act (1971) as Class C drugs. The charity Crew has further information on 'street benzos'.

Risks of benzodiazepine use

Mixing benzodiazepines with other drugs is risky. Mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol and other depressants like heroin increases their effects and can increase toxicity. They slow down the central nervous system, increasing the risk of overdose. Longer term effects can include:

• memory loss
• insomnia
• anxiety
• depression

Dependence

Tolerance to benzodiazepines can develop quickly with frequent use. If a person takes a benzodiazepine regularly, they will get the full effect of the drug for the first few weeks. As their body becomes used to benzodiazepines the effect diminishes.

There is a risk of both psychological and physical dependence with repeated use. If people stop taking benzodiazepines suddenly they can experience withdrawal effects which could be life-threatening.