What are benzodiazepines (BZDs)?

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Last updated: March 12, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) are a class of medications that act as short-intermediate acting benzodiazepine receptor agonists, used in the treatment of insomnia, among other conditions. They are recommended as a first-line pharmacological treatment for patients with primary insomnia, particularly when used in combination with behavioral and cognitive therapies 1. The choice of a specific BZD should be directed by factors such as symptom pattern, treatment goals, past treatment responses, patient preference, and comorbid conditions 1. Some examples of BZDs include temazepam, which is a short-intermediate acting benzodiazepine receptor agonist, often used in the treatment of insomnia 1. Key points to consider when prescribing BZDs include:

  • Symptom pattern
  • Treatment goals
  • Past treatment responses
  • Patient preference
  • Cost
  • Availability of other treatments
  • Comorbid conditions
  • Contraindications
  • Concurrent medication interactions
  • Side effects It is essential to note that BZDs should be used with caution, as they can have side effects and interact with other medications, and their use should be carefully monitored by a healthcare provider 1.

From the Research

Definition of Benzodiazepines

There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies do not mention benzodiazepines (BZDs).

Related Studies

The provided studies discuss bendopnea, a symptom related to shortness of breath when bending forward, and its association with various heart conditions, such as heart failure and pulmonary arterial hypertension 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

  • The studies examine the prevalence of bendopnea in patients with severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, systolic heart failure, and pulmonary arterial hypertension.
  • They investigate the correlation between bendopnea and other cardiac symptoms, echocardiographic findings, and cardiac function parameters.
  • The research also explores the prognostic value of bendopnea and its association with adverse clinical outcomes in ambulatory patients with heart failure.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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