Effects of tranquillisers
*Tranquillisers have a sedative effect. They work by depressing the nervous system and slowing the body down.
*They relieve the tension and anxiety and make the users feel calm and relaxed.
*Big doses can make a user sleepy and forgetful and can send them to sleep.

The risks
* Benzo’s in particular are highly addictive.
*Tranquilliser are a depressant and should not be taken with other drugs or alcohol.
*Withdrawal can cause unpleasant systems like pounding headache, nausea, anxiety and confusion.
*Sudden withdrawal after a big dose can cause panic attacks and fits.
*There’s been a big increase in sex crimes involving tranquillisers.
*Victims drink are spike with the drug, knocking them into a often paralysed stupor so they’re either unaware of or unable to prevent a sexual assault.

Form
*Tranquillisers are manmade drug. There are hundreds of different types of tablets.

The law
*Tranquillisers can only be prescribed by a pharmacist. They are controlled under a class C of the misuse of the drugs act. It is illegal to possess benzodiazepines (including diazepam ) without a prescription. Unauthorised possession could result in a prison sentence and a fine. Supplying could mean a heavier prison sentence.