Benzodiazepine Addiction: Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment

Benzodiazepines are a type of prescription sedative drug. Benzodiazepines reduce central nervous system (CNS) activity, which can produce a calming effect on the brain and body.

Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines to treat anxiety disorders. People may also take them to manage the symptoms of panic disorder, insomnia, and other mental health conditions. They typically prescribe these drugs for short-term use because of their risk for misuse and addiction. However, people often misuse benzodiazepines and develop physical dependence on them.

This article will explore benzodiazepine abuse and addiction. You will learn:

  • The effects of benzodiazepines
  • The risks of benzodiazepine abuse
  • What to expect in benzodiazepine addiction treatment
  • Where to find benzodiazepine addiction treatment in New Jersey

If you or someone you love is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to the specialists at New Jersey Behavioral Health to learn about our substance abuse treatment plans. Contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines (also called “benzos”) are sedative prescription medications. Some of the most commonly prescribed drugs of this type include:

  • Restoril (temazepam)
  • Klonopin (clonazepam)
  • Halcion (triazolam)
  • Xanax (alprazolam)
  • Valium (diazepam)
  • Ativan (lorazepam)

Millions of people in the United States use prescription benzodiazepine drugs to manage conditions, including:

  • Alcohol withdrawal
  • Insomnia and other sleep problems
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Panic attacks

People who take benzodiazepines typically experience a reduction in physical and psychological anxiety symptoms. These drugs produce feelings of sedation and calm. People may misuse these drugs, putting them at risk for addiction to benzodiazepines.

Benzo Abuse: Understanding the Side Effects and Risks

All prescription medications have the risk of unwanted side effects. In addition to producing feelings of calm and relaxation, benzodiazepines may also have other side effects.

Some of the common side effects of benzodiazepines include:

  • Mood changes
  • Aggressive behaviors
  • Dizziness
  • Vertigo
  • Poor coordination
  • Slurred speech

People who misuse benzodiazepines may be more likely to experience unwanted or dangerous side effects.

Benzodiazepine misuse includes:

  • Taking a higher dose than prescribed
  • Taking a medication more often than prescribed
  • Using a benzodiazepine drug for a longer period than prescribed
  • Using a prescription drug recreationally (without a prescription for it)

Abusing benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance. Tolerance occurs when a person’s body adjusts to a certain amount of a substance. People with tolerance to benzodiazepines must take higher doses to get the desired effects of the drug.

Over time, heavy or frequent benzodiazepine abuse can lead to physical dependence or addiction. People who develop benzodiazepine addiction must seek benzo rehab in a professional treatment center.

Recognizing Benzodiazepine Addiction

Recognizing an addiction is the first step in getting life-saving treatment. Benzodiazepine abuse and addiction can change a person’s appearance, behavior, and thinking. Knowing what signs to watch for can help you recognize a problem as early as possible.

Some signs of benzo addiction include:

  • Increased isolation or a new group of friends
  • Neglecting responsibilities, hygiene, relationships, and hobbies because of substance abuse
  • Taking risks while using benzos, such as having unsafe sex or driving while intoxicated
  • Taking benzodiazepines without a prescription for them
  • Exhibiting withdrawal symptoms (tremors, anxiety, agitation, sweating, etc.) if they stop taking benzos
  • Having prescriptions for benzos from multiple doctors
  • Running out of a prescription early
  • Experiencing cravings for benzos
  • Feeling anxious about running out of their prescription

Recognizing these and other signs of addiction indicates someone is living with benzodiazepine abuse or addiction. Contact a recovery center like New Jersey Behavioral Health to find treatment programs and support.

What Happens in Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment?

It can be helpful to know what to expect during treatment for benzodiazepine addiction in New Jersey. This information can help you prepare for each stage of your recovery journey.

Benzodiazepine addiction treatment happens in stages. Here is an overview of what to expect from each stage of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program.

Assessment

First, your treatment team will assess your needs. This information will help your specialists create the most effective treatment program possible.

During the assessment, they will ask you about your substance use. They may inquire about your mental health and medical history, family history of substance use disorder (SUD), and more. The assessment may also include lab testing and a physical examination.

Detox

Throughout detox, you will receive support and treatment to ensure you have a safe, complete detox. Your treatment program may include:

  • Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
  • Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
  • Holistic therapies like mindfulness, nutrition counseling, and exercise

Some people complete an inpatient detox program, while others receive outpatient detox support.

Treatment

When you are medically stable and ready for treatment after detox, you will begin to follow a tailored treatment plan. Comprehensive addiction treatment programs include:

  • Medication management
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other behavioral therapies
  • Individual, group, and family counseling
  • Relapse prevention education
  • Coping skills
  • Holistic therapies like mindfulness, art therapy, acupuncture, and more
  • Aftercare planning and support

Intensive treatment programs provide structure and support during the early stages of recovery. Then, you must continue to stay engaged in your recovery by following a structured aftercare plan.

Find a Benzodiazepine Rehab in New Jersey

If you or someone you love requires treatment for benzodiazepine addiction, you are not alone. You can find effective treatment at New Jersey Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team with questions or to schedule an assessment.

References:

  1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Benzodiazepines
  2. United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Benzodiazepines
  3. Science Direct: Benzodiazepine abuse, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal among schizophrenic patients: A review of the literature

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