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Norman et al,
Box 3

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Adverse effects of the benzodiazepines and their management

More frequent effects

Autonomic nervous system: dry mouth, blurred vision, urinary retention, excessive perspiration

  • Reassure patient that effect usually diminishes within a few weeks; and/or decrease the dose
Central nervous system: drowsiness, excessive sedation, ataxia
  • Tolerance usually develops; decrease dose
Less frequent effects

Nausea, vomiting, constipation

  • Reassure patient that effect usually diminishes within a few weeks; and/or decrease the dose; exercise, increase fluids, mild laxative
Skin rashes
  • Rare; multiple aetiologies; may require withdrawal of drug
Weight gain
  • Diet
Blurred vision
  • Reduce dose
Jaundice (hypersensitivity)
  • Cease medication

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