Understanding the Impact of Benzodiazepines on the Nervous System

🧠GABA is a neurotransmitter that slows down neural activity and acts as the body's natural tranquilizer.

💊Benzodiazepines enhance the effects of GABA, further slowing down the nervous system.

🔁Prolonged use of benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect.

⏰Withdrawal symptoms may occur when benzodiazepines are stopped or reduced, and can persist for months or even years.

🌡️Physical dependence on benzodiazepines can cause long-lasting changes in the brain's neurotransmitter balance.

What is GABA?

—GABA is a neurotransmitter that sends inhibitory signals in the nervous system, reducing neural activity and promoting relaxation.

What are the common brand names of benzodiazepines?

—Some common brand names include Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Valium.

What are the main excitatory neurotransmitters?

—Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter in the nervous system.

What is tolerance?

—Tolerance is a state in which the body requires higher doses of a drug to achieve the same effect.

How long can withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines last?

—Withdrawal symptoms can persist for months or even years after stopping or reducing benzodiazepine use.

00:00This video was created by the Benzodiazepine Action Work Group at the Colorado Consortium as part of the Recovering from Benzodiazepines for Peer Support Training Course.

00:18In a simplified way, this video explains how benzodiazepines impact the nervous system and body.

00:26GABA is a neurotransmitter that sends inhibitory signals in the nervous system, acting as the body's natural tranquilizer.

01:23Excitatory neurotransmitters send signals that increase neural activity, promoting alertness and various functions in the body.

01:45GABA receptors, found throughout the body, are the sites where both GABA and benzodiazepines bind to exert their effects.

03:09Benzodiazepines enhance the action of GABA, further slowing down the nervous system and reducing excitatory neurotransmitter output.

04:48Long-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect as before.

06:32Withdrawal symptoms may occur when benzodiazepines are stopped or reduced, causing increased anxiety, tremors, insomnia, and other symptoms.