Answer:
Dear
Esther,
Anxiolytics
(sometimes incorrectly called 'minor tranquilizers'), are used primarily
as 'calmers'.
The risk
of abuse and addiction is high.
Most
anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics were associated with a limited
increase in the risk of fractures.
In clinical
studies small increases in fracture risk were seen with the use of
anxiolytics and sedatives and neuroleptics without a dose-response
relationship. The increase may be linked to an increased risk of falls.
Anxiolytics
are generally divided into two groups of medication, benzodiazepines
and non-benzodiazepines.
The long-term
use of benzodiazapines can cause physical dependence. The use of benzodiazepines
should therefore commence only after medical consultation and benzodiazepines
should be prescribed the smallest dosage possible to provide an acceptable
level of symptom relief. Dependence varies with the benzodiazepine
used and with the user.
The use
of non-benzodiazepines have proved to be safer than both benzodiazepines
and the older barbiturates, especially when taken in overdose, and
also have less of a tendency to induce dependence and addiction although
these issues can still become a problem with abuse of this drug.
