DOx Benzodiazepine tranquilizers Orange Blue Discussion: DOx and Benzodiazepine tranquilizers

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DOx and Benzodiazepine tranquilizers​

DOx compounds are a class of synthetic psychedelics in the substituted amphetamines family. They are structurally related to phenethylamines and are characterized by a combination of stimulant and psychedelic effects.

DOx compounds are strong agonists at the 5-HT2A receptor, which is the primary receptor implicated in the psychedelic effects of many substances, including LSD and psilocybin. Activation of this receptor leads to altered perception, mood changes, and cognitive effects typical of psychedelics. These compounds also have some inhibitory effect on the reuptake of serotonin, which increases serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft, further enhancing the serotonergic activity. DOx compounds can also affect dopamine and norepinephrine systems, contributing to their stimulating effects. This is why DOx compounds tend to be more stimulating and physically activating compared to other psychedelics like psilocybin.

Examples of DOx Compounds

• DOB (2,5-Dimethoxy-4-bromoamphetamine): DOB is one of the most well-known DOx compounds. It is a powerful psychedelic and stimulant, with effects lasting 18-30 hours. It was first synthesized in the 1960s by Alexander Shulgin. Users often report intense visual hallucinations, altered thought processes, and a sense of euphoria or anxiety depending on the dose and set/setting.
• DOC (2,5-Dimethoxy-4-chloroamphetamine): DOC is another potent DOx compound known for its long duration, typically 16-24 hours. It has a high affinity for the 5-HT2A receptor and is known to produce strong visual effects, enhanced colors, and intricate patterning. Like other DOx compounds, DOC also has a significant stimulant component, making users feel energetic and awake.
• DOI (2,5-Dimethoxy-4-iodoamphetamine): DOI is similar to DOB in its effects, with a duration of around 18-30 hours. DOI is less common but is known for its intense visual effects, which include vivid, complex hallucinations and alterations in perception of time and space.

Benzodiazepine tranquilizers, often simply called benzodiazepines or "benzos," are a class of drugs primarily used for their sedative, anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing), muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant properties. They work by affecting the central nervous system (CNS) and are commonly prescribed for conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, muscle spasms, and seizures.

Benzodiazepines bind to specific sites on the GABA-A receptor complex in the brain. This receptor is a chloride ion channel that, when activated by GABA, allows chloride ions to flow into the neuron. When benzodiazepines bind to the GABA-A receptor, they increase the affinity of the receptor for GABA. This means that GABA is more likely to bind to the receptor and exert its inhibitory effects. The binding of GABA to its receptor opens the chloride ion channel, allowing more chloride ions to enter the neuron. The influx of these negatively charged ions hyperpolarizes the neuron, making it less likely to fire an action potential (a nerve impulse). By enhancing GABA's effects, benzodiazepines effectively dampen neuronal activity throughout the brain, leading to their calming, sedative, and muscle-relaxing effects.

Examples of Benzodiazepines

• Diazepam (Valium): One of the most well-known benzodiazepines, used for anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizure disorders. It's also used in alcohol withdrawal management due to its long half-life.
• Lorazepam (Ativan): Commonly prescribed for anxiety, seizures, and as a preoperative sedative. Lorazepam is often used in emergency settings to control acute seizures or severe anxiety.
• Alprazolam (Xanax): Primarily prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. It's known for its relatively fast onset of action and is often used for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms.
• Clonazepam (Klonopin): Used for seizure disorders, panic disorder, and certain types of movement disorders like restless legs syndrome. Clonazepam has a longer duration of action, making it useful for ongoing management of conditions.
• Midazolam (Versed): Typically used as a sedative before medical procedures or surgeries. It’s known for its fast onset and short duration, making it ideal for short-term use.

Combining DOx compounds with benzos can result in a complex interaction due to their opposing effects on the CNS.

1. Psychedelic Dampening: benzos produce calming, sedative effects. When combined with DOx, benzos can dampen the intensity of the psychedelic experience. This could potentially reduce anxiety or paranoia triggered by the psychedelic, but it might also dull the positive or insightful aspects of the trip.
2. Cognitive Impairment and Memory Issues: DOx substances can already cause significant cognitive distortion, including confusion, difficulty concentrating, and impaired memory during the trip. Benzos can further exacerbate cognitive impairment, leading to increased forgetfulness, anterograde amnesia (difficulty forming new memories), and impaired judgment. This combination could make it difficult for the user to recall the experiences or insights gained during the trip.
3. Sedation and Motor Impairment: Benzodiazepines are known for causing drowsiness, motor incoordination, and sedation. When taken with a DOx compound, there’s a risk of significant sedation, which could be dangerous, especially if the person attempts to engage in activities requiring alertness.
4. Psychological and Behavioral Effects: The combination could lead to unpredictable mood changes, ranging from extreme sedation to agitation or aggressive behavior, especially in individuals with underlying psychological issues.
5. Potential for Misuse: Users might misuse benzodiazepines to alleviate the intense or undesirable effects of a DOx trip. This practice could increase the risk of both psychological dependence on benzodiazepines and physical health risks due to improper dosing and lack of supervision.

The combination of DOx and benzodiazepines is generally not recommended due to the potential for serious cognitive, psychological, and physical side effects. If such a combination is being considered, it should be done under strict supervision to minimize the risks, particularly in managing acute psychedelic distress.

Considering the above, we recommend treating this combination with great caution.