3.11 Sleeping medication and tranquillizers (see also 4.11)

"In the world of drug addicts, sleeping pill users are looked down upon: Goof ball bums don't have any class...

William Burroughs.

In 1965, the effects of benzodiazepines were discovered. Known examples of these are Librium, Valium (also known as diazepam), Rohypnol (oxazepam), Normison (temazepam) and Prothiad.

How are benzodiazepines used?

Sleeping medicines and tranquillizers are usually taken orally but can also be inj . ected. [Acre, the gel-like benzodiazepine is removed from the capsule with an injection needle, drawn into the syringe and injected into the vein.

How do they work?

Benzodiazepines have an inhibiting effect on the brain functions. Physicians prescribe them to patients who suffer from sleeping disorders, stress, anxiety, bad nerves and exhaustion.

How can you tell benzodiazepine use in prison? Benzodiazepine users become sluggish and sleepy. In addition, the motor functions are slowed down which can result in people hurting themselves more easily. The use of benzodiazepines does not lead to aggressive behaviour.

Wall bangers

Certain sleeping medicines (the so-called barbiturates) are also called 'wall bangers' because the user, in a sort of drunken state, 'bangs' into everything in his way. The following day the user won't remember a thing and will be highly surprised about his collection of black and blue bruises.