Benzodiazepines and pregnancy
Benzodiazepines taken during pregnancy cross the placental barrier and can effect the growth and development of the baby. New babies of mothers who use benzodiazepines are more likely to:

• be sick in the first few weeks of life and later
• have withdrawal symptoms when they are born (because they are no longer getting benzodiazepines from the mother’s blood supply).

These symptoms can include breathing problems, sucking difficulties, poor body temperature control and poor muscle tone.
Tell your doctor or the health professional managing your pregnancy if you are using benzodiazepines.
They will be able to help you care for your baby.

Benzodiazepines and the law
Using benzodiazepines without a prescription from a doctor, or keeping, selling or giving them to someone else is illegal. If you are caught you could face substantial fines and penalties including a prison sentence.

Benzodiazepines and driving
It is illegal to drive under the influence of drugs, including benzodiazepines if used illegally.

Penalties include losing your licence, a fine and/or jail.
Benzodiazepines slow down the workings of your brain and your body, so they may make you drive dangerously.

Information and advice
24 hour confidential telephone counselling services

NSW
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Tel. (02) 9361 8000
Toll free. 1800 422 599

Victoria
Direct Line
Tel. (03) 9416 1818
Toll free. 1800 888 236

Western Australia
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Tel. (08) 9442 5000
Toll free. 1800 198 024

Queensland
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Tel. (07) 3236 2414
Toll free. 1800 177 833

South Australia
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Tel. (08) 8363 8618
Toll free 1300 131 340

Northern Territory
Amity Community Service
Tel. (08) 8981 8030
Toll free. 1800 629 683
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Toll free. 1800 131 350

Tasmania
Alcohol and Drug Information Service (ADIS)
Tel. (03) 9416 1818
Toll free. 1800 811 994

ACT
Alcohol and Drug Program
Tel. (02) 6205 4545
Note. Toll free numbers are only available
if you are calling from within that state.

The information in this document can be accessed through the NSW Health website: www.health.nsw.gov.au