Benzodiazepines and Other Drugs

Benzodiazepines and Z-drugs act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Several other drugs (e.g., carisoprodol (Soma®), alcohol, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants) are also CNS depressants and also act as sedatives. The effect of these drugs may be additive and their concurrent use may be dangerous. [1]

Antidepressants are neuroactive drugs that do not work in the same way as benzodiazepines or Z-drugs, and are not direct replacements for them.Several other drugs are also neuroactive. Any neuroactive drug, whether over-the-counter or prescribed, can cause problems when used at the same time as benzodiazepines or Z-drugs. It is important to inform your benzodiazepine or Z-drug prescriber of all of the drugs that you are taking.