A weekly column looking at common treatments
Diazepam
What is it?
Diazepam is the best known and most widely used of the benzodiazepine group of drugs. It was developed in the early 1960s and was used to help relieve tension and nervousness, relax muscles and encourage sleep.
How does it work? Benzodiazepines reduce communication between brain cells. This results in depressed brain activity, allowing you to fall asleep more easily. However, the nature of the sleep and relaxation is affected by the drug, and therefore you may not wake up feeling refreshed. What is it good for? It can be used to treat anxiety and anxiety-related insomnia. It is a muscle relaxant, is used in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal and for epilepsy. Given intravenously it is used to sedate patients undergoing uncomfortable procedures.
Any contraindications?
It can be passed to a baby through breast milk. It can interact with other drugs including medications with a sedative effect and with the anti-ulcer drug cimetidine.
Possible side-effects?
When used over several weeks the effect of diazepam diminishes. It is also habit-forming with prolonged use and severe withdrawal reactions can occur when the drug is stopped. There is an increased likelihood of adverse side effects in those over 60.
Dr Muiris Houston, Medical Correspondent
Alternative Remedy
Kombucha Tea for arthritis and insomnia
What is it?
Kombucha is a fungus made up of bacteria and yeasts which is nourished by sugar and tea. Kombucha tea is made by placing the kombucha culture is a solution of black or green tea with sugar. This is left to ferment for six to 15 days and then filtered for drinking.
How does it work?
The lactic acid produced in Kombucha during the fermentation process detoxifies, cleanses, purifies and strengthens the body. The metabolic
by-products of the fermentation process include nutrients such as Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6 and B12 and folic acid. Other acids present are anti-bacterial and anti-viral.
What is it good for?
It is deemed to relieve arthritis, insomnia, digestive problems and headaches. It is also believed to strengthen hair and nails, clear acne, psoriasis and other skin conditions and help muscular aches.
Are their any contraindications?
It is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. Those who drink it daily are advised to take a week off every two to three months or a month off every six months.
Possible side-effects?
Those who begin drinking Kombucha daily may have temporary side-effects lasting from a day to a week. These include headache, stomach-ache, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, mild diarrhoea, constipation, pimples, rashes and/or wind. If you have a strong reaction, it is advised to cut down or stop for a day or two before beginning again with a smaller dose.
Sylvia Thompson