Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepines in the United States are among the most widely prescribed medications that affect the central nervous system. The benzodiazepine family of drugs is used to produce sedation, relieve anxiety, induce sleep, prevent seizures and relieve muscle spasms. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration has said that chronic use of large doses of benzodiazepines can produce tolerance and physical dependence. In some cases, this can occur even with daily use of therapeutic doses. Medical experts urge that use should be tapered gradually to avoid a painful withdrawal. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal can be intense and are said to be comparable to those associated with alcohol withdrawal.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome

Discontinuation of therapy with benzodiazepines, especially after a prolonged period, can cause withdrawal syndrome to set in. It can be marked by symptoms including anxiety, insomnia, agitation, muscle spasms, cramps, blurred vision, dizziness, dry mouth, aches and pains, flu-like symptoms, numbness, tingling, hot and cold flushes, impaired memory and concentration, chest pain, sleep problems, fatigue, weakness, nightmares, nausea, vomiting, hallucinations, restless legs, stiffness, elevated blood pressure, mood swings and gastrointestinal problems. Visual and auditory disturbances have also been reported. Medically-supervised management of benzodiazepine withdrawal is recommended to reduce risk and increase positive results.

Benzodiazepine Addiction is Likely Not Your Fault

Within the benzodiazepine class is Ativan, Xanax, Klonopin and Valium. Each can have a tranquilizing effect on users. Addiction treatment centers across the world are reporting an increase in the number of people seeking help for benzodiazepine detox. Many patients become addicted after being prescribed a benzodiazepine drug for legitimate reasons. A tolerance can develop, causing the user to take more and more to achieve the desired effect. Physical and psychological dependence can follow and may eventually progress to full-blown addiction. Benzodiazepines are also used illicitly, obtained through “doctor shopping” to secure an adequate supply, falsification of prescriptions and through purchase and trade on the black market. Benzodiazepines are sometimes used recreationally to help people “come down” from other highs.

Signs of Benzodiazepine Addiction

Developing withdrawal symptoms is one surefire way to know if physical dependence has set in. Another sign of benzodiazepine addiction is the escalation of use and the compulsion to seek out and consume the drug. Also a tell-tale sign of addiction is the strong craving for the drug that can only be soothed by taking it. If you find that you are preoccupied with obtaining and consuming the drug, you may have a problem that requires medical intervention. A responsible, humane treatment facility will help patients detox in a safe and comfortable environment. Withdrawal symptoms can be managed medically, and the right program will offer therapy to help patients address underlying issues that may have contributed to the addiction.

Get Help with Benzodiazepine Addiction Now

Call us today to discuss how the Waismann Method can free you from your Benzodiazepine dependency and get your life back.

• Call (310) 205-0808 or (888) 987-HOPE (4673) during business hours. for more information about rapid detox treatment for prescription drug addiction
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