Benzodiazepines Addiction

Benzodiazepines (benzos) are a class of prescription drugs, commonly called tranquilizers, that depress the central nervous system and reduce brain function. They are typically prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Occasionally, benzos are used before dental and medical procedures and include popular drugs such as Valium, Xanax and Librium.

While benzos are sold illegally on the streets, it is important to note that dependence can occur even in those who aren't intentionally abusing the drug. In fact, daily use of benzos for a period longer than four weeks can result in limited drug effectiveness, tolerance, dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use.

While benzos have many therapeutic uses, repeated use, large doses or improper use can result in a variety of negative side effects, including: amnesia, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, slurred speech, irritability, nightmares and hostility.

Using benzos improperly can be very detrimental to one's health. They can cause severe effects including; dangerously reduced heart rate, coma and death when they are used in combination with other drugs such as alcohol and antihistamines. Using benzos can cause short-term memory loss and confusion. Prolonged daily use or abuse can also result in tolerance, physical dependence and withdrawal when use is discontinued.

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can be quite severe and often last longer than those of other drugs. It has been said that detoxing from benzos is just as difficult as detoxing from heroin. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms associated with benzos can change minute-to-minute, and hour-to-hour. Even as the patient recovers, symptoms may disappear for a few weeks or months, only to return again. Withdrawal symptoms include: anxiety, headaches, muscle aches, depression, rapid heartbeat and loss of appetite. The more severe withdrawal symptoms include; psychosis, epileptic seizures, suicidal behavior and hallucinations as well as heart attack, seizure or stroke which can result in death. Severe symptoms can be extremely dangerous and are best treated in a medical detox unit.

Whether you have just started using drugs or have a long history of benzodiazepine abuse, right now is the right time to learn about the treatment options New Beginnings Lake Charles has to offer. The New Beginnings Lake Charles Medical and Clinical Team is here to help!

Call us today at 877.855.9773 to speak with one of our Admission Specialists.