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BENZODIAZEPINES
(INCLUDES OTHER SEDATIVE HYPNOTIC AGENTS)
This section is designed to inform professionals.
Use in Pregnancy
- Many benzodiazepines have been associated with increased risk of malformations especially neural tube and facial. This is probably associated with regular and high dose use.
- No known intra uterine growth effects
- No known neuro-behavioural teratogenicity
- Respiratory depression in neonate may occur if pre delivery dose significant. If mothers use is chronic, withdrawal is also seen.
Use in Lactation
- Benzodiazepines are considered safe in breastfeeding if the dose is less than the equivalent of diazepam 20mg per 24 hours.
- Caution is advised in the benzodiazepines with the longest half-life, in premature infants and in long term use.
Dose Equivalents
Below is a table giving the dose equivalents, half-life, and pregnancy and lactation risk categories of several different benzodiazepines:
Approximate dose equivalent for 10mg of Diazepam
Generic Name
|
Brand Name |
Dose Equivalent |
Pregnancy
Risk Category |
Lactation
Risk Category |
Half-Life (adult) in hours |
|
Alprazolam |
Xanax |
0.5mg |
D |
L3 |
12-15 |
|
Clonazepam |
Rivotril |
2mg |
C |
L3 |
18-50 |
|
Diazepam |
Valium |
10mg |
D |
L3 |
43 |
|
Lorazepam |
Ativan |
1mg |
D |
L3 |
12 |
|
Nitrazepam |
Mogadon |
10mg |
? |
L2 |
30 |
|
Oxazepam |
Serepax |
20-30mg |
D |
L3 |
12 |
|
Temazepam |
Euhypnos |
20-40mg |
X |
L3 |
9-13 |
|
Triazolam |
Halcion |
0.25mg |
X |
L3 |
1-6 |
|
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