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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
Understanding what illegal drugs are and how they work can help you connect with someone in need. Your knowledge and kindness could save a life.Keep reading to learn about different types of illegal drugs, including prescription versions, that are commonly misused. BenzodiazepinesBenzodiazepines are prescription sedatives that relieve anxiety, soothe muscle spasms, and prevent seizures. When used per a doctor’s orders, these drugs are legal, but some people crush the drug and snort it to get high. Many people with heroin and cocaine addictions also abuse benzodiazepines.[2] Co-administering the drugs can boost a high while reducing unpleasant side effects. Addictions can develop in time. The following benzodiazepines are commonly abused:Ativan Ativan contains lorazepam, a powerful benzodiazepine. Doctors use this medication to treat insomnia caused by anxiety or stress. Doctors are encouraged to prescribe Ativan only for short periods lasting no longer than four weeks. Extended use can lead to physical dependence and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.[3]People abuse Ativan for its sedating and euphoric effects. Common street names include benzos, downers, and nerve pills. High doses taken for long periods can be incredibly dangerous. Learn more about Ativan and its common side effects.Halcion Halcion is a prescription benzodiazepine containing triazolam. Doctors use it for short periods (no longer than about 10 days) to treat insomnia. Most patients can’t get a prescription for supplies lasting longer than a month. People with long-lasting sleep problems often need more help than Halcion can provide.[4]People abuse Halcion in concert with stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine. Halcion helps them to sleep when their stimulants wear off. Street names for the drug include barbs, benzos, and blues. Long-term abuse can lead to severe health problems, including seizures, when people try to quit. Learn more about Halcion and its common side effects. KlonopinKlonopin is a prescription benzodiazepine containing clonazepam. Doctors use Klonopin to treat seizures and panic disorder. Sometimes, people take the medication for long periods, even though researchers say its effectiveness after about nine weeks of therapy hasn’t been studied.[5] Like all other benzodiazepines, Klonopin can cause both physical dependence and abuse. Street names for the drug include downers, tranks, and yellows. People buy and abuse the drug for its sedative power and potential to cause euphoria. Learn more about Klonopin and its common side effects. LibriumLibrium is a prescription benzodiazepine containing chlordiazepoxide. Doctors use it to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal, and pre-surgery anxiety. Most people take the medication for periods lasting no longer than four months. Its effectiveness for longer treatment time frames hasn’t been proven.[6]While Librium is considered a safe and effective medication, it can also spark drug abuse and addiction. Street names for the drug include barbs, benzos, and downers. Combining Librium with another depressant (like opioids) is particularly dangerous, as it can lead to life-threatening sedation.[6] Learn more about Librium and its common side effects. Valium Valium is a prescription benzodiazepine containing diazepam. Doctors use it to treat anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and muscle spasms. Doctors may also use it to treat convulsive
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