Video Transcription

Get to Know – Benzos

Benzodiazepines, or benzos for short, are a depressant drug. They are a minor tranquillizer usually prescribed by doctors to relieve stress and anxiety. They can also be used to help people sleep and are often used to help treat people with alcohol dependence.

As mentioned, they are also called benzos, but they are known by other names such as TRs, bricks, zanis, moggies, and vals.

Some of the effects can include drowsiness, sleepiness, confusion, depression, reduced stress, calmness, nausea, a dry mouth, decreased body temperature, and slowed speech.

Some harm minimization strategies around benzodiazepines, when used recreationally, include the “bitter, spitter” rule. Essentially, if it has a really bitter taste, spit it out. At the moment, benzodiazepines are being made illegally in backyards, and they often don’t contain what you would expect them to.

Start with a taste and use them only around people you trust and in a place where you feel safe. Generally, benzodiazepines are prescribed for specific medical conditions, so if they’re not prescribed to you, you don’t know what the effects will be.

Video by Youth Projects