Benzodiazepines (benzos), such as Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, and Xanax, are widely prescribed for a reason. These sedatives, also referred to as tranquilizers, offer swift relief from the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder, or insomnia. People who struggle with these conditions are beyond ecstatic when they initially experience how quickly these medications take the edge off and lead to a relaxed state of being.
As with other prescription drugs, there is another side to the benzo story. While this class of drugs may reward the person with fast-acting relief from the uncomfortable symptoms, this may come at a price. Benzodiazepines are highly addictive, with tolerance to the drug’s effects escalating quickly. Soon you realize it requires more frequent dosing or higher dosages to experience that calming sensation.