Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription medication used to treat conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. They may also be prescribed as muscle relaxants and at times for anesthesia during medical procedures. Despite being prescription medication, there’s still a strong chance for addiction that may require prescription drug addiction treatment.
The issue with this type of medication stems from legitimate users taking the drug longer than originally intended and building up a tolerance, causing them to use more for the same effects, or those obtaining it illegally in order to use it to experience a high.
And unfortunately, perpetrators sometime use benzodiazepines as a date-rape drug. This is more common on college campuses and at bars, but it’s always a good idea to have a friend with you and to keep a close eye out.
Things To Know About Benzodiazepines
The following are 3 things you need to know about benzodiazepines.
1. Possible Side Effects Of Benzodiazepines
Once someone ingests benzodiazepines, that person may experience effects which feel similar to alcohol or barbiturates, such as:
- Amnesia
- Blurred vision
- Changes in heart rate
- Chest pain
- Confusion
- Depression
- Dizziness
- Dreams or nightmares
- Drop in blood pressure
- Drowsiness
- Euphoria
- Grogginess
- Headache
- Impaired coordination
- Trembling
- Upset stomach
- Vision changes
- Weakness
2. Extreme Variances In The Length Of Effects
The length of the effects can vary greatly and will depend on whether the benzodiazepine medication is in the short, intermediate or long-lasting category. A short-acting medication can cause effects for less than 12 hours; a long-lasting one can live up to its name, with effects lasting for 24 hours or longer.
In most cases, the main effects of the drugs wear off within a few hours. They do exert an influence on regular users, which becomes apparent when they either go without their regular dose for a time or decide to quit.
3. So Are Benzodiazepines Addictive?
If you have been prescribed benzodiazepines and use them according to your doctor’s instructions and for a limited time, you probably don’t need to be concerned that you will start displaying the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse. However, for those who are taking higher doses of the drug, who are taking it more often than prescribed or who are using it illegally, dependence can start very quickly (usually within weeks).
Withdrawal symptoms will start in those who are dependent on the drug if use is stopped abruptly or if the amount used is drastically reduced. This is why a professional prescription drug detox and treatment program is needed.
Professional medical supervision and holistic treatment can help provide a safe and more comfortable experience when detoxing from benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms, which may include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Sensory hypersensitivity
Autonomic instability, which effects blood pressure and breathing, is another withdrawal symptom from benzodiazepine abuse, and one which is potentially very dangerous.
Individualized Treatment For Benzodiazepine Abuse
If you have concerns about yourself or a loved one’s benzodiazepine or other substance use, contact The Dunes East Hampton today.
We are one of the leading prescription drug addiction treatment centers in New York, and we custom create recovery plans tailored to each client’s unique needs and goals.
Call Us Now To See How We Can Help You Break Free From Addiction!
