Alcoholic patients use benzodiazepines more commonly than the general population. Ethanol, in the form of one cocktail, slows the rate of absorption of diazepam but has no effect on overall completeness of absorption. Benzodiazepines are metabolized in the liver by oxidation, conjugation or nitroreduction reactions. Metabolites have longer elimination half-lives and are less likely to be cleared effectively in patients with hepatocellular disease. Alcohol and other sedatives enhance the CNS depression caused by benzodiazepines in an additive manner.
Psychological dependence is common.
The risk of physical dependence is low. Seizures are less common. They are also used as sedatives in the treatment of seizure disorders and alcohol withdrawal.