Short course
6.5
Benzodiazepines
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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
Blurred vision
Jaundice (hypersensitivity)
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