WORLD BENZODIAZEPINE AWARENESS DAY

July 11 brings attention to World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day (W-BAD) and we are raising awareness about the dependence on prescription benzodiazepines (Benzo). In fact, National Day Calendar is using World Benzodiazepine Awareness Day to learn about the drug’s adverse effects. In addition, we are sharing information about withdrawal to benzodiazepines, which can last for years.

#WORLDBENZODAY

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that act as tranquilizers and are commonly used to treat anxiety disorders.

6 Common Brand Names of Benzodiazepines

Valium
Ativan
Xanax
Restoril
Tranxene
Librium

Physicians prescribe the many of the above medications for insomnia, seizure disorders, vertigo, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal. Interestingly, common side effects of any benzodiazepine include dizziness, weakness, and unsteadiness. Unfortunately, all brands of benzo drugs can cause physical dependence.

According to warning labels, patients should only take these medications for 2 to 4 weeks. However, since many doctors prescribe them for much longer, resulting in major dependence on the drug. Obviously, when a person stops taking these medications, they often suffer severe withdrawal symptoms. Unfortunately, many of the withdrawal symptoms persist for years after they have stopped taking the drug.

4 Common Side Effects of Benzo

Strange phobias
Hallucinations
Suicidal thoughts and tendencies
Crippling neurological problems

Some people say the drug has made their pre-existing physical and mental health issues even worse. Furthermore, others say benzodiazepines have completely ruined their finances, relationships, career, and their life.

Additionally, benzodiazepines have also caused a high number of overdose deaths in the U.S. These deaths are the second leading cause of prescription drug deaths, with opioid deaths being first. Despite all of these dangers, benzodiazepines continues to be the most widely prescribed drugs in the world by physicians.

8 WAYS TO OBSERVE #WorldBenzodiazepineAwarenessDay

Host a W-BAD fundraiser.
Share your story about benzodiazepines with others.
Talk to healthcare professionals about the dangers of this drug.
Print out W-BAD pamphlets and hand them out or drop them off in public places.
Change your profile picture on social media with the W-BAD graphic.
Research benzodiazepines and share what you’ve learned with others.
Contact your local media and ask them to do a feature story for this day.
Share this day on social media with #WorldBenzodiazepineAwarenessDay and #WORLDBENZODAY.