The Effects
- Tranquillisers are a sedative & work by depressing the nervous system, slowing the body down
- They relive tension and anxiety, making the user feel calm and relaxed
- Large doses can make a user forgetful and send them to sleep
The Risks
- Benzos in particular are highly addictive
- Tranquillisers depressants and if taken with other depressants like alcohol, can lead to an accidental overdose
- Can cause short-term meomry loss
- Injecting crushed tablets or melted down gel capsules is extremely dangerous, sometimes fatal
- Chalk in tablets is a major cause of collapsed veins & can lead to infection and abscess
- Injecting gel capsules can also be fatal when the gel solidifies inside the blood vessels. Withdrawal can cause unpleasant symptoms, pounding headache, nausea, anxiety & confusion
- Some people report withdrawal symptoms after only 4 weeks use. this can be dangerous & require medical help.
- There has been an increase in the abuse of prescription drugs which are often seen as a safe option i.e “they were prescribed..so they must be safe”
The Law
- Tranquillisers can only be [prescribed by a pharmacist
- They’re controlled under Class C of the Misuse of Drugs Act
- It’s illegal to possess benzodiazepines, including temazepam, without a prescription
- Unauthorised possession could result in a prison sentence of up to 2 years & an unlimited fine. Supplying i.e giving some to your friends, could mean up to 14 years in prison & an unlimited fine
Street Names
- Benzos
- bennies
- Downers
- Eggs
- Jellies
- Norries
- Roofies
- Rugby Balls
- Tamazzies
- Tams
- Vallies