Anxiety is one of the most common mental health disorders in this country. Due to this, benzodiazepines are some of the most commonly prescribed medications for this concern. Taken correctly and as prescribed, benzodiazepines can be part of a successful treatment plan. Unfortunately, many people across the United States choose instead to misuse and use these drugs, whether it be their prescription or drugs that they obtain illicitly from someone else. Understanding benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms and treatment can help those who are addicted to these drugs get the help they need.
Benzo addiction treatment at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi can make a difference. Call 662.222.2989 to learn more.
What Are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines, occurring in either a short- or long-acting form, are a class of drugs with sedative and calming effects that depress the central nervous system (CNS). Within the CNS, these medications work on a certain neurotransmitter called GABA by enhancing its already inhibitory effect, meaning it decreases the excitability within your neurons.
Seen most commonly in a tablet or capsule form and used most frequently as treatments for anxiety or sleep issues, they may also be prescribed for depression, insomnia, muscle spasms, seizures, agitation, and alcohol withdrawal. Typically, these medications are preferred for short-term use, however, some individuals have been prescribed these medications on a long-term basis.
Common benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” as they are often called, include the following, which are the five most seen on the illicit drug market:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
Benzodiazepine Use and Addiction
In addition to being used on their own, benzodiazepines are often paired with other drugs, which only serves to increase the dangers, including risk of fatality. This use may start from a genuine problem or concern; that is, a person may have a valid prescription for a benzodiazepine medication and begin taking the medication at a higher frequency and dosage than was prescribed by their doctor. Additionally, benzodiazepines may be found on the street, and many individuals choose to purchase drugs that have been diverted to the illicit drug market.
Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
Due to their high potential for use, and their addictive nature, an unfortunate number of individuals across our country find themselves addicted to a drug within this class. As a person gains tolerance for their benzodiazepine medication, they will find that they have to take a greater dose in order to equal the same perceived effects.
This is a hallmark of dependency. A person’s withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on the duration and intensity (frequency and amount) of use. If an individual abruptly ceases the use of any of these drugs, their body and emotional state will react harshly. They might experience any of the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Irritability
- Tension and nervousness
- Panic attacks
- Hand tremors
- Sweating
- Difficulty in concentration
- Nausea
- Vomiting or dry heaves
- Weight loss
- Palpitations
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Altered perception
In the most severe of instances, seizure and psychotic reactions may be present.
Find Comfort And Hope at Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi
Benzo addiction treatment can help you get your life back on track. At Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi, we understand how addiction can take over your life, and we are here to help.
We know how overwhelming addiction can be and how many questions you might have about the process from start to finish. Because of this, we employ only the most compassionate and expert individuals to handle our calls. Contact the Woodland Recovery Center Mississippi team at 662.222.2989 so we can offer you more information on our phenomenal treatment program, any financial concerns, or any other questions you might have about the rehabilitation process.
