Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are a type of prescription medication often used to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, benzos are also commonly misused, which can easily lead to overdose. Benzo addiction treatment can safely help you stop taking benzos. To determine if addiction treatment is necessary, it is crucial to recognize the symptoms and signs of benzodiazepine misuse and overdose. To learn more about getting help with benzodiazepine addiction, call 662.222.2989 and ask about our addiction treatment programs available at Woodland Recovery Center.
How Do Benzos Work?
Benzos work by strengthening the impact of GABA, a chemical that naturally occurs in the brain. GABA regulates and reduces brain activity relating to logic, memory, and emotions. When a person experiences anxiety or insomnia, benzos can help GABA work more effectively to calm thoughts and emotions. For this reason, benzos can be highly effective in treating anxiety.
However, there’s a downside: benzos have a high potential for abuse and are only safe for short-term use. When a person uses benzodiazepines for a long time, the brain adapts to the effects of the drug. Anxiety and insomnia can worsen once tolerance develops, leading the person to use more benzos to feel the same effects.
Common Signs of Benzo Overdose
Benzo overdose can happen on purpose when someone intentionally takes excessive amounts of the substance. However, benzo overdose symptoms often occur by accident when a person combines benzos with opioids or alcohol to increase feelings of sedation or euphoria.
Some of the most frequent behavioral signs of a benzodiazepine overdose include:
- Confusion or disorientation
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Slurred speech
- Clumsiness or lack of coordination
- Changes in mood
- Hallucinations
In addition to changes in behavior, benzo overdose can bring distinct and dangerous physical symptoms.
Physical signs to watch for that indicate a benzo overdose include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Slowed rate of breathing
- Lowered blood pressure
- Blurred vision
- Nonresponsiveness
- Loss of consciousness
The impact of benzos on heart rate and breathing rate means that a benzo overdose can lead to coma and death without medical intervention. Seeking immediate medical attention is crucial if you or someone you know may be experiencing benzo overdose symptoms.
Treatment Approaches for Benzo Overdose
If you suspect that someone has overdosed on benzos, call for emergency assistance right away. While waiting for help to arrive, there are a few things you can do:
- Stay with the person and monitor their breathing and heart rate
- If the person is conscious, try to keep them awake and in an upright position
- Do not give them any other substances or medications unless directed by a medical professional
Once help arrives, immediate treatment may include:
- Administration of oxygen or intravenous fluids
- Use of activated charcoal to absorb excess substance in the stomach
- Medication to help reverse the effects of the benzo overdose
- Supportive care for any other symptoms or complications
While benzo overdose can be life-threatening, prompt medical treatment greatly increases the chances of a successful recovery.
Why Is It Important to Identify Symptoms of Benzo Overdose?
Identifying symptoms of a benzo overdose is critical for several reasons that directly impact the safety and well-being of the individual and those around them. Recognizing these symptoms can save lives and serve as a pivotal first step toward seeking help and recovery.
- Early intervention – The sooner the signs of an overdose are recognized, the faster medical intervention can be provided, significantly increasing the chance of survival and recovery.
- Prevention of long-term damage – Timely medical attention can prevent potential long-term health complications associated with an overdose.
- Awareness and education – Understanding the symptoms of benzo overdose raises awareness about the risks of misuse and can educate individuals and communities on the dangers of substance abuse.
- Support and treatment – Recognizing an overdose can serve as a crucial turning point for the individual suffering, highlighting the need for professional treatment and support for both the addiction and any underlying mental health conditions.
By remaining vigilant and informed about these symptoms, individuals can play a key role in safeguarding their health and the health of others, fostering a community of care and support.
Call Woodland Recovery Center to Find Recovery with Our Benzo Addiction Treatment
At Woodland Recovery Center, we understand the critical importance of safeguarding your health and supporting the well-being of those around you. By addressing benzo addiction, you’re taking a vital step toward fostering a compassionate community of care and support. Our benzo addiction treatment program is designed to provide you with the tools necessary for recovery and to empower you to live a life free from addiction.
We encourage you to reach out if you or someone you know is struggling. Contact us online or call Woodland Recovery Center today at 662.222.2989 and start your journey to recovery. Together, we can create a supportive environment where health and well-being thrive.
