You or your loved one may receive a prescription for benzodiazepines (benzos) in the United States. Benzos are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the country. However, benzos can be dangerous when misused or abused. Recognizing benzo abuse warning signs is vital so you or your family member can receive help immediately.
While prescription benzos can be helpful when used correctly, many people become addicted to these medications due to their euphoric effects. If you are in Texas and observe any benzo abuse warning signs in yourself or a loved one, call 1.844.768.0169 to speak with someone from our knowledgeable and experienced team at The Right Step Houston. Ask them about our substance abuse treatment programs in Texas and how they can help.
Commonly Abused Benzodiazepine Medications
Benzodiazepines are central nervous system (CNS) depressants that act on the brain like alcohol. They treat various medical conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Common prescription benzos include the following:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
Benzos work by slowing down brain activity, which creates a calming effect. Xanax is one of the most commonly abused benzos because it produces a strong sense of relaxation and euphoria when taken in large doses. Other widely abused benzodiazepines include Valium and Ativan, both fast-acting drugs with a high potential for addiction. In addition, some people abuse prescription benzodiazepines by crushing them up for snorting or injecting them for an intense high that lasts several hours.
Typical Benzo Abuse Warning Signs
If you think someone you care about is abusing benzodiazepines, there are some warning signs to look out for. These include the following:
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Increased irritability and agitation
- Unusual changes in mood or behavior
- Financial problems due to obtaining benzos illegally
- Unexplained absences from work or school
- “Doctor shopping” for benzo prescriptions
- Decreased coordination and impaired judgment
If any of these warning signs are present, it is vital to seek help for benzo abuse as soon as possible. The dangers of benzo abuse cannot be overstated, as it includes the risk of death. People who engage in polysubstance abuse involving benzos are at an even higher risk of fatal overdose. Seeking professional help can be life-changing and life-saving.
The Right Step Houston offers comprehensive benzo abuse treatment programs that can help those struggling with benzo addiction. Our knowledgeable and experienced team of professionals will work with you or your loved one to develop a personalized program that fits individual needs and goals.
What to Expect from Benzo Addiction Treatment
The first step in treatment is detoxification from benzodiazepines under medical supervision at an inpatient facility or outpatient clinic. After detox has been completed successfully, therapeutic treatment will begin with counseling sessions designed to identify underlying issues related to addiction and develop healthy coping mechanisms for managing cravings without using drugs or alcohol. In addition, patients may also participate in group therapy sessions led by trained counselors who specialize in treating substance use disorders, such as benzo addiction.
Find Benzo Abuse Treatment in Texas at The Right Step Houston
Benzo abuse can have severe consequences if left untreated, but help is available if you know where to look for it. If you have noticed any warning signs of benzo abuse in someone close to you, it’s essential to reach out for help immediately to get the professional care they need. With comprehensive treatment programs tailored specifically for each patient’s needs, our knowledgeable and experienced team provides individualized care focused on long-term recovery from benzo abuse or addiction. Contact The Right Step Houston today at 1.844.768.0169 to learn more and start on the path toward healing.