Librium was one of the first drugs ever synthesized in a lab and, surprisingly, its discovery was an accident. Still, it has proved a boon to millions of people suffering from mental disorders and brain chemistry imbalances for over half a century. Knowing a bit more about its discovery, use, and history can help you understand why this drug has been so important in medicine.
Discovery
The discovery of "Librium," a brand name of chlorodiazapine, was discovered completely by accident when scientists were trying to concoct a completely unrelated chemical; artificial dye. By 1957, scientists had further discovered that Librium had a hypnotic effect, relaxed muscles, and produced a feeling of calm and a few years later, it was available for prescription.
1960
By 1960, scientists had discovered that small doses of Librium were capable of reducing tremors, withdrawal symptoms, hallucinations, and other physical manifestations of alcohol detoxification and withdrawal. People with emotional distress who manifested physical illnesses such as ulcers also found Librium to be an effective calming agent, allowing these illnesses to heal.
1970's
By the 1970's, Librium had proved to be a useful inspiration for other drugs which were prescribed for a varying degree of mental disorders including anxiety and chronic stress. Its most well known "daughter" is Valium, the so-called "mother's little helper" which the Rolling Stones made famous.
Problems
Almost as soon as it was prescribed int he 1960's, some problems arose with Librium and its derivatives. First, Librium proved to be addictive, causing people to become dependent upon the chemical in order to remain functional. Worse, the dependent person's body required increasing amounts of the drug in order to maintain wellness. Those who took too much Librium also could fall unconscious and thus enter a coma or even die from the medication.
Considerations
Currently, doctors warn patients of the possible side effects of Librium. These include dizziness, agitation, hypersensitivity to noise or light, irritability, drowsiness, and in some serious cases, thoughts of suicide.
In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration warned that Brazilian weight loss drug manufacturers had included Prozac and Librium in the composition of their supplements, thus increasing the risk of side effects as well as dependency. Because these drugs were marketed as "natural supplements," they did not have to go through the regular FDA screening of products to ensure safety.
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