Tranquillisers
Name It
- Chemical names include: diazepam, temazepam (mazzies), etc.
- Trade names include: Valium, Ativan, Mogadon (moggies) etc
Know It
- Tranquillisers are prescribed by GP's as short-term treatment for anxiety, depression, and sleep problems.
- They are misused by some people to counter the effects of stimulant drugs, or taken in combination when users are unable to obtain alcohol or heroin.
- Tranquillisers can be supplied lawfully only by a pharmacist to someone with a doctors prescription.
- While possession isn’t illegal without a prescription (except in the case of temazepam), supply is against the law and Class C penalties apply.
The Effects
- Tranquillisers calm users and slow them down mentally
- They relieve tension and anxiety
- Higher doses can make users drowsy and forgetful.
The effects
- Tranquillisers slow down reactions, making accidents more likely.
- They are extremely dangerous if mixed with alcohol.
- Tolerance can develop. Users can become dependent, especially if they rely on the drug to calm them or help them to sleep.
- Users trying to quit may suffer panic attacks.
- Injecting crushed tablets or the contents of capsules is very dangerous and can be lethal.