Benzodiazepines (benzos) are medications produced by pharmaceutical companies and approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). When misused, taken without a prescription, or used outside of proper guidelines and supervision, they can become dangerously addictive illicit drugs, often sold on the street. Because benzos are tranquilizers, they come with a significant risk of overdose, especially when mixed with alcohol or other drugs. If you or someone you love is misusing benzodiazepines, seek professional help in a benzo addiction treatment center.
At The Right Step Houston, our team of experienced clinicians offers evidence-based treatments designed to help you uncover the underlying causes of benzodiazepine dependence and identify the triggers that may challenge your sobriety. Being supported in a professional rehab setting will help you detox from benzos and begin recovery on a solid footing, maximizing positive long-term outcomes. Reach out today by dialing 1.844.768.0169.
What Are the Commonly Abused Benzos?
Benzos have therapeutic benefits that make them a commonly prescribed sedative used to treat anxiety, panic disorder, seizures, insomnia, and, as a muscle relaxant, even muscle spasms. Many households nationwide have a prescription in their medicine cabinet for a benzo.
Physicians may prescribe them to treat actual conditions, but that doesn’t prevent abuse or addiction. Some misuse benzodiazepines after being prescribed them for medical reasons, while others obtain the drug illegally to experience its calming effects. Many people are abusing drugs and becoming addicted because they’re trying to self-medicate for an undiagnosed physical or mental health condition. To mask chronic pain, depression, anxiety, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), someone may turn to benzos to take the edge off.
Regardless of how they’re first acquired, the most commonly abused benzos include:
- Alprazolam (Xanax®) – High risk for abuse
- Clonazepam (Klonopin®) – High risk for abuse
- Lorazepam (Ativan®) – High risk for abuse
- Diazepam (Valium®) – Moderate risk for abuse
- Temazepam (Restoril®) – Low to moderate risk for abuse
All of the above drugs are controlled substances. People take most orally, though some inject them. Some are faster acting than others, while the effects of some have a longer duration than their counterparts. Mixing them with alcohol intensifies their sedative effects and increases the risk of overdose if taken in excess.
How to Recognize Benzodiazepine Dependence
Drug and alcohol dependence is a short step away from addiction. Dependence occurs when the body and brain become so accustomed to the drug’s presence that they can no longer function properly without it. Signs of withdrawal indicate dependence, which is physical. It often causes addiction, which centers in the brain and its neural pathways.
How do you know if you or someone you know physically depend on benzos? Dependence is often indicated by:
- Tolerance to the drug’s effects
- Inability to stop despite trying to
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the drug is withheld
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can lead to a range of symptoms, including mood swings, anxiety, and insomnia. Physical effects such as tremors, aches, pains, and headaches are common. Many people may feel detached or experience depersonalization and derealization, where they become unresponsive to others or their surroundings. Increased sensitivity to touch can occur, and in severe cases, individuals may face self-harm or suicidal thoughts. If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 at 988.
Beginning recovery on your own is intensely challenging and has a high risk of early relapse. To maximize your support and safety, minimize discomfort during withdrawal, and help you both understand your addiction and learn to avoid triggers, seek professional treatment for benzodiazepine dependence.
Enroll in Benzo Addiction Treatment at The Right Step Houston Today
The Right Step Houston offers inpatient and outpatient programs, a range of evidence-based psychotherapies and experiential therapies, and the option for a women-only or men-only rehab experience. Learn how our caring, experienced staff can help you start recovery from benzo dependence and addiction today. Fill out our online contact form to connect or call 1.844.768.0169. We are standing by.