How Do Benzodiazepine Toxicity Antidotes Work?

Benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes are drugs used to treat benzodiazepine poisoning.

Benzodiazepine when taken in unusual amounts can lead to overdose, resulting in:

• Depression
• Mild drowsiness
• Coma-like state

Benzodiazepine toxicity antidote binds to the benzodiazepine receptor located in the central nervous system, thereby reversing the side effects of benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes have a structure similar to benzodiazepines; hence, they compete with benzodiazepines to bind to the receptors. They help to reverse the sedative effect of benzodiazepines and help an unconscious person regain consciousness or prevent recurrence of unconsciousness or coma.

Benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes are mainly used for the reversal of conscious sedation and general sedation.

Benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes can cause some side effects, including:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Mild dizziness
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
• Increased sweating
• Blurred vision
• Pain at the site of injection

Some of the severe side effects of benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes may include:

• Agitation
• Tremors
• Feeling suddenly hot
• Chest pain
• Severe dizziness
• Rapid pulse
• Fast or pounding heartbeats
• Lightheadedness

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of benzodiazepine toxicity antidotes include:

• Flumazenil
• Romazicon