Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Benzodiazepines are nervous system depressants commonly prescribed to treat a few conditions including anxiety, stress, insomnia, epilepsy and to sedate people before certain medical procedures.
  • Benzodiazepines are available on prescription in Australia and should only be used on advice from your doctor. 
  • They can be highly addictive and should only be used for a short term. Withdrawal from use should be gradual and under medical supervision.
  • Overdose can occur if benzodiazepines are mixed with alcohol or other drugs. 

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 19-05-2023