Benzodiazepines and Prescription Medicines

Benzodiazepines and other prescription medicines can be helpful when used as prescribed, but they also carry risks, especially when used long term, in higher doses, or without medical supervision.

Harm reduction is about reducing risks and protecting your health, whether medicines are prescribed to you, shared, or obtained elsewhere. You do not have to stop using substances to access advice or support from Wirral Ways.

What are benzodiazepines and related medicines?

Benzodiazepines are medicines that slow down the central nervous system. Common examples include diazepam, alprazolam, clonazepam, and lorazepam.

Other medicines with similar effects include:

  • Z-drugs (such as zopiclone or zolpidem)

  • Pregabalin and gabapentin

  • Some prescription pain medicines

These substances can reduce anxiety, help with sleep, or ease distress, but they also increase the risk of sedation and breathing problems.

How these medicines affect the body

Benzodiazepines and similar medicines:

  • Slow brain activity

  • Reduce anxiety and muscle tension

  • Cause drowsiness and impaired coordination

With ongoing or high-dose use, risks can include:

  • Dependence and tolerance

  • Memory and concentration problems

  • Increased risk of falls and accidents

  • Emotional blunting or low mood

  • Withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly

Dependence and tolerance

With regular use, the body can become dependent on benzodiazepines and similar medicines.

This means:

  • Higher doses may be needed to feel the same effect

  • Stopping suddenly can cause serious withdrawal symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, panic, insomnia, shaking, and in some cases seizures.

Do not stop suddenly without medical advice, especially if you have been using regularly.

Mixing benzodiazepines with other substances

Mixing benzodiazepines or similar medicines with other substances is one of the highest-risk behaviours.

Especially dangerous combinations include:

  • Benzodiazepines and alcohol

  • Benzodiazepines and opioids

  • Benzodiazepines and pregabalin

These substances all slow breathing. When combined, they significantly increase the risk of overdose and death.

If mixing happens:

  • Use much smaller amounts

  • Avoid using alone

  • Space substances out in time

  • Carry naloxone if opioids are involved

Risks of non-prescribed medicines

Medicines obtained without a prescription can be unpredictable.

Risks include:

  • Unknown strength or contents

  • Fake or contaminated tablets

  • Higher overdose risk

Even tablets that look the same can vary widely in strength.

Memory, mood, and mental health

Long-term or high-dose use of benzodiazepines and similar medicines can affect:

  • Memory and concentration

  • Emotional regulation

  • Anxiety levels over time

Some people find that while these medicines help in the short term, they can worsen anxiety or low mood in the long term.

Support is available to talk through these effects safely.

Reducing risks when using

Harm reduction advice includes:

  • Avoid mixing with alcohol or opioids

  • Use the lowest effective dose

  • Avoid sudden changes in dose

  • Take regular breaks where possible

  • Seek advice before reducing or stopping

If you are prescribed medication, talk to a healthcare professional before making changes.

Support from Wirral Ways

Wirral Ways offers confidential, non-judgemental support around benzodiazepines and prescription medicines.

You can access:

  • Harm reduction advice

  • Support to understand risks

  • Health checks

  • Naloxone

  • Help to access clinical support if needed

You do not have to stop using medicines to speak to us.

Get support

If you would like to talk about benzodiazepines, prescription medicines, or reducing risks, contact Wirral Ways to find out what support is available.

Your safety and wellbeing matter. Support is here for you.

Last Updated on 10 February 2026