Side effect

What happens

What to do about it

COMMON (more than about 1 in 10 people might get these)

Sleepiness

You feel sleepy, drowsy or sluggish. It can last for a few hours after taking your dose, or longer.

Don't drive or use machinery.
Discuss with your doctor if you can take your benzodiazepine at a different time of the day.

Dizziness

Feeling light-headed and faint.

Don't stand up too quickly.
Try and lie or sit down if you feel it coming on. Don't drive.

LESS COMMON (less than about 1 in 10 people might get these)

Ataxia

Being unsteady on your feet.

Discuss with your doctor when you next see him or her.

RARE (less than about 1 in 100 people might get these)

Aggression

Feeling excitable. You may be over-talkative, unfriendly or disinhibited.

Discuss this with your doctor. He or she may want to adjust your medicine or dose.

Headache

Your head is pounding and painful.

Try paracetamol. Your pharmacist will be able to advise if this is safe to take with any other medicines you may be taking.

Confusion

Your mind is all mixed up or confused.

Discuss with your doctor when you next see him or her. He or she may want to adjust your medicine or dose.

Hypotension

Low blood pressure. This can make you feel dizzy, particularly when you stand up.

Don't stand up too quickly. If you feel dizzy, don't drive.

Amnesia

Loss of short-term memory. Difficulty in remembering.

It is not dangerous. Discuss with your doctor if you are worried.

Rashes

Blotches seen anywhere.

Stop taking your benzodiazepine and see your doctor now.