Phenazepam

Phenazepam is a benzodiazepine drug, which was developed in Soviet Union and now produced in Russia and some CIS countries. Phenazepam is used in the treatment of neurological disorders such as epilepsy, alcohol withdrawal and insomnia. It can be used as a premedication before surgery as it augments the effects of anesthetics and reduces anxiety.

Dosage
An average phenazepam dosage is 0.5 mg 2-3 times daily. The maximum daily dosage must not exceed 10 mg.

Side effects
Side effects include dizziness, loss of coordination, drowsiness. As with other sedatives, in case of abrupt discontinuation following prolonged use, severe withdrawal symptoms may occur.

Legal Status
Phenazepam does not appear in the list of Controlled Substances in the Laws of either the USA or the UK, where in each country, benzodiazepines are generally Class C, Schedule IV substances. Like all benzodiazepines, it is legally classified as a C-IV substance in accordance with the analogue act in the U.S. (Flunitrazepam, aka "rohypnol", is dually scheduled.)

According to the official investigation report, effects of phenazepam on pilot Pavel Gruzin may have contributed to errors that caused the crash of Crossair Flight 498.