Urine benzodiazepine screening is used to detect drug use in this group of drugs.
Benzodiazepines are a large group of drugs that act as suppressors of the central nervous system (CNS). Opioids and alcohol are also CNS suppressants and their action appears to the user as an overall sense of calm. The marketing of benzodiazepines began in the 1960s, designed to treat convulsions, insomnia, anxiety disorders, withdrawal symptoms in the treatment of alcoholism, and as muscle relaxants. There are three general categories of benzodiazepines depending on their time of action: short-acting, intermediate-acting, and long-acting.
Physiological actions: Reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, hypotension, respiratory depression, nausea, lack of coordination, impaired driving skills, blurred vision, increased seizures in epileptic patients.
Psychological actions: Drowsiness, dizziness, decreased alertness and concentration, depression, withdrawal inhibition, changes in appetite, confusion, euphoria, nightmares, aggression, violence, impulsivity, irritability, amnesia, IQ reduction.
Toxicity: Benzodiazepines are particularly dangerous when misused with alcohol, opioids, and barbiturates because they act on the same receptors in the body and therefore enhance the action of the drug. Symptoms of overdose may include somnolence, speech disorders, nystagmus, hypotension, ataxia, respiratory depression, coma, cardiopulmonary arrest, and death.
Benzodiazepines are detected in the urine from 3 days (short-acting) to 15 days (long-acting) after use.
The following substances are detected: oxazepam, alprazolam, alpha-hydroxy-alprazolam, bromazepam, chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam, clobazam, delorazepami, desalkylflurazepam, diazepam, estazolam, flunitrazepam, lorazepam, midazolam, nitrazepam, norchlordiazepoxide, nordiazepam, temazepam, triazolam.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
