How to memorize Benzodiazepines with a easy mnemonic?

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Introduction

Benzodiazepines, also known as “benzos” or “minor tranquilizers”, are a class of depressant drugs that slow down communication between the brain and body. They are often prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, but can also be used for other conditions such as panic attacks, muscle spasms, and surgical sedation.

Classification

Benzodiazepines are classified in to: Short acting (1-6 hr) Moderate acting (10-20 hr) long acting (24-72 hr).

For short acting

For short acting which are usually used to induce sleep. Just memorize TOM: Trizoalm Oxazepam Midozolam

For moderate acting

For moderate acting which are usually used to maintain the anxiolytic effects. Just memorize BELTA: Bromazepam Estazolam Alprazolam Lorazepam Temazepam

For Long acting

For Long acting which are used in epilepsy and various indications jus memorize CDFQ: Clonazepam Clorazepate Chlordiazepoxide Diazepam Flurazepam Quazepam.

Extra point

Most of Benzodiazepines are Contraindicated in liver impaired patients. But few Benzodiazepines can be given in low doses or standard doses. For that just memorize LOT: Lorazepam Oxazepam Temazepam.

Side effects if benzidiazepines

Benzodiazepines, a class of medications used to treat anxiety, panic disorder, seizures, and insomnia, can have many side effects, including:

Common side effects

Drowsiness, confusion, light-headedness, unsteadiness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors

Paradoxical effects

Aggressive behavior, agitation, anxiety, delusions, depersonalization, and depression

Long-term effects

Difficulty concentrating, feeling dulled and slow, feeling isolated and unreal, feeling cut off from your emotions, feeling irritable and impatient, loss of confidence, and weight problems

Other side effects

Impaired thinking and memory loss, dry mouth, slurred speech or stuttering, double or blurred vision, impaired coordination, dizziness, and loss of appetite