Benzodiazepine Detox

Benzodiazepine Detox

Benzodiazepine addiction has become a growing problem in the state of Ohio. Those who are suffering from drug abuse need professional help to recover. There are many facilities throughout the United States and Ohio that offer quality care for addiction treatment. At Legends Recovery Center, we offer benzodiazepine detox and other helpful resources for people in recovery.  

What Are Benzodiazepines?

benzodiazepine detox

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that act as central nervous system depressants, or sedatives. They are typically used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Benzodiazepines work by binding to a specific site on GABA receptors, which are proteins that mediate the inhibition of nerve impulses. This action leads to a decrease in the activity of the nervous system and produces a calming effect.

Benzodiazepines are generally safe and effective when used as directed, but they can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. If taken in large doses, benzodiazepines can also cause memory problems, impaired motor skills, and slurred speech.

What Do Benzodiazepines Treat?

Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants and include drugs such as Valium and Xanax. They are typically used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizure disorders, and alcohol withdrawal. Benzodiazepines are typically only prescribed for short-term use due to the risk of dependence and addiction.

What is Valium?

Valium is a medication that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It is a member of the benzodiazepine family, which includes medications such as Xanax and Ativan. Valium works by reducing the activity of nerves in the brain that are involved in anxiety and panic disorders. It can also be used to relieve muscle spasms and seizures. Valium is available in tablet, syrup, or injectable form. It is typically taken two to four times per day.

What is Xanax?

Xanax is a medication that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by slowing down the nervous system, which can help to reduce anxiety and improve mood. Xanax can be taken as needed or regularly, depending on the severity of the anxiety or panic disorder.


How Do Benzodiazepines Affect The Body?

Several effects can occur when someone abuses benzodiazepines. Some of the more common ones include:

  • Impaired coordination
  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Impaired judgment
  • Hallucinations
  • Aggressiveness
  • Paranoia
  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks

People who abuse benzodiazepines can develop a tolerance to the drugs, which means that they need to take larger and larger doses to get the same effects. This can lead to serious health consequences, including overdose. Benzodiazepine abuse can also lead to psychotic symptoms, such as hallucinations and paranoia. Long-term abuse of benzodiazepines can also cause damage to the brain and other organs.

When taken in large doses or combined with other substances, benzos can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to death. Additionally, these medications can be addictive, and those who abuse them may experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to quit.

How Are Benzodiazepines Addictive?

Benzodiazepines are addictive because they can cause physical and psychological dependence. When someone takes benzodiazepines regularly, their body becomes used to the drug and they need higher doses to get the same effect. This can lead to tolerance, which is when a person needs more of a drug to get the same effect.

Tolerance can lead to dependence, which is when a person feels like they need the drug to function normally. Dependence can lead to addiction, which is when a person compulsively uses a drug despite negative consequences. Benzodiazepines can be addictive because they act on the brain’s GABA receptors.

GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate anxiety. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the effects of GABA, which can lead to a feeling of relaxation and calmness. When someone takes benzodiazepines regularly, their brain becomes used to the increased level of GABA and they may need higher doses to get the same effect.

Signs of Benzodiazepine Abuse

There are a few signs that may indicate someone is abusing benzodiazepines, which include the following:

  • Taking the drug more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed
  • Crushing and snorting the pills, or dissolving them in water and injecting them
  • Displaying new or worsening symptoms of anxiety or depression
  • Isolating oneself from family and friends
  • Exhibiting erratic or violent behavior
  • Struggling to maintain employment or experiencing problems in school
  • Engaging in criminal activity to obtain the drug
  • Experiencing financial difficulties due to the cost of the drug
  • Requiring increasing doses of the drug to achieve the desired effect
  • Developing a tolerance to the drug, which leads to taking higher and higher doses

Benzodiazepine abuse can lead to serious consequences, including overdose and death. If you or someone you know is abusing benzodiazepines, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Treatment for drug abuse typically includes benzodiazepine detox, type of therapy, and support groups. Drug abuse is a serious problem that should not be ignored.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms

Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on the length of time the person has been taking the medication, as well as the dosage. However, some common symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and panic attacks. In severe cases, seizures or hallucinations may also occur.

It is important to note that people who have been taking benzodiazepines for a while may experience more intense withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, it is important to consult with a medical professional before discontinuing the use of these medications on your own. Professional help and undergoing benzodiazepine detox in a safe environment is highly recommended.

Treatment For Benzodiazepine Addiction

Some options for benzo addiction treatment may include the following:

Addiction treatment can be difficult, but it is possible. There are many different types of treatment available, and the best type of treatment for you will depend on your situation. Levels of care can involve medication, therapy, or a combination of both. Medication can help to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, while therapy can help you to address the underlying causes of your addiction and to develop healthy coping skills.

Treatment is often most successful when it is tailored to the individual, so it is important to work with a treatment team that can create a plan that is right for you. Recovery from addiction is possible, and with the right help, you can achieve lasting sobriety.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) for Benzo Addiction?

Medication-Assisted Treatment is a process of helping people go through withdrawal symptoms in a safe and comfortable environment under the care of medical professionals. This type of benzodiazepine detox can be an important first step in addiction treatment, helping people to get through the difficult and potentially dangerous withdrawal process while getting the support and care they need. Detox can be done in an inpatient or outpatient setting, depending on the needs of the individual.

Several different medications can be used during MAT, depending on the specific drug being abused and the severity of the addiction. Medications can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and make the detox process more comfortable. In some cases, drugs may be used to help manage cravings and prevent relapse.

After benzodiazepine detox, it is important to continue treatment to fully recover from addiction. Treatment options can vary depending on the individual but may include therapy, counseling, and support groups. Medication may also be necessary to help manage any underlying mental health conditions that may have contributed to the addiction.

What is Residential Treatment for Benzo Addiction?

Residential treatment for benzo addiction is a type of mental health treatment that involves a person living in a facility while receiving care from mental health professionals. This type of treatment is typically used for people with serious mental illness, who need more intensive treatment than what can be provided on an outpatient basis.

Residential treatment can last for a few weeks or months, and typically includes a combination of individual and group therapy, as well as other activities designed to help the person recover from their mental illness. Residential treatment can be an effective way to address serious mental health problems, and it can help people learn how to cope with their illnesses healthily.

What is Outpatient Treatment for Benzo Addiction?

Outpatient treatment is a great option for those who are struggling with addiction but who cannot commit to an inpatient treatment program. It allows people to receive treatment while still being able to live at home and work or go to school.

Outpatient treatment programs typically last for a few months, and during that time, patients attend weekly therapy sessions and may also participate in group counseling and support groups. After completing an outpatient treatment program, many people find that they have the tools they need to stay sober and live a healthy, productive life.

Benzodiazepine Detox at Legends Recovery

At Legends Recovery, our utmost concern is that your circumstance is treated with personalized care. Nobody is ever alone in their struggles, and we want to help those who walk through our facility looking for it. If you or a loved one would like to learn more, you can contact us here.