The different types of benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are medications that are widely prescribed worldwide for a variety of conditions. These include insomnia, anxiety, muscle spasms and epileptic seizures. These drugs are known for their calming effect and help to calm the nervous system. However, not all benzodiazepines are the same. There are different types of benzodiazepines, each with their properties, applications and duration of action. In this blog, we list the most important types of benzodiazepines for you.

Different types of benzodiazepines

There are many types of benzodiazepines on the market, each with a slightly different effect. The main difference is in how quickly they work and how long the effect lasts. This is important for the purpose for which a doctor prescribes them.

Short-acting benzodiazepines

These benzodiazepines work quickly and are mainly used to help you fall asleep or for short, acute anxiety symptoms. Examples are: 

• Midazolam: These are often used during medical procedures to achieve a calming effect.
• Triazolam: These are mainly used to treat insomnia.

Because short-acting benzodiazepines leave the body quickly, there is less chance of feeling “hungover” the next morning. However, this type can lead to addiction more quickly if used regularly.

Medium-acting benzodiazepines

This group has a duration of action between short and long. They are therefore often prescribed for both anxiety and sleep problems. Examples include:

• Temazepam: These are widely used for insomnia.
• Oxazepam: These are popular for anxiety and tension, and are also suitable for the elderly due to their milder effect.

Long-acting benzodiazepines 

These types have a long-lasting effect, which is useful for anxiety disorders that occur throughout the day or when tapering off short-acting drugs. Examples include:

• Diazepam: These are known as a widely used sedative
• Clonazepam: These are often used for epilepsy and panic disorders.

A disadvantage of long-acting benzodiazepines is that they can accumulate in the body, which can lead to drowsiness or sleepiness during the day with prolonged use. Take a look at our blog about the difference between oxazepam and diazepam!

What should you pay attention to when using them?

Although benzodiazepines can be very effective, they also carry risks. Your body can become accustomed to them quite quickly, meaning you need more to achieve the same effect. This can lead to dependence. That is why doctors usually only prescribe these drugs for short-term use. Benzodiazepines can also affect your reaction time. Driving or operating machinery is therefore not recommended. This effect can last until the next day, especially with types of benzodiazepines that have a longer duration of action.

Other types of benzodiazepines

• Bromazolam: particularly valued for its calming and anxiety-reducing properties.
• Deschloroetizolam: thienodiazepine variant with sedative and hypnotic effects.
• Flubromazepam: mainly used in research into stress and insomnia
• Flubrotizolam (FANAX): powerful research chemical with muscle relaxation properties, among others
• Flunitrazolam: benzodiazepine variant that suppresses emotions and promotes sleep
• Norflurazepam: active metabolite with calming and euphoric effects
• Bromonordiazepam: related to diazepam, with mild calming effects
• Gidazepam: research chemical that combats anxiety and sleep disorders
• Nifoxipam: Benzodiazepine known for its slow action
• Pyrazolam: New benzo variant with a calming effect similar to classic benzodiazepines

Want to know more about these drugs? Check out our other blogs about benzodiazepines!

So what exactly are benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines affect the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. This is a substance that calms and inhibits your nervous system. This effect often makes you feel relaxed, reduces anxiety and makes it easier to fall asleep. It is therefore not surprising that benzodiazepines are often used to treat people with sleep problems, panic attacks or severe stress.

Experiences with benzodiazepines

Below are some experiences from users:

‘Very nice, also works for a long time. Great for calming down after other substances or just for a good night's sleep. I will definitely continue to buy it.’

‘I use benzos myself when I really can't sleep and have been awake all night. I make sure I never use it for more than 3 days.’

As you can see, there are many types of benzodiazepines, each with their own characteristics and areas of application.