Benzo Addiction

What is a Benzo Drug?

Benzodiazepines, more commonly referred to as benzos, are a group of medications that have a sedative effect when consumed. Some people describe the effects of benzos as calming, which is why they are sometimes prescribed to treat conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, these drugs can have a number of side effects, including addiction. Preventing serious consequences of benzo addiction starts with understanding the risks of abuse and being able to identify the signs of a benzodiazepine use disorder. 

Benzodiazepine Drug List

  • Niravam
  • Ativan
  • Xanax
  • Librium
  • Klonopin
  • Valium
  • Halcion
  • Restoril
  • Tranxene
  • Alprazolam

Effects & Risks of Using Benzos

By the nature of these substances, benzodiazepines reduce heart rate and breathing. Lower vital signs are normal while in a relaxing state (our heart rate is lower when we sleep and higher when we run), however, it can be dangerous if they reduce too significantly. Benzos should always be taken as prescribed in order to drastically decrease the possible side effects and risks. When misused or abuse, the following benzos side effects may develop:

  • Physical weakness
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion
  • Blurred vision
  • Poor coordination
  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Lack of consciousness
  • Coma
  • Reduced breathing
  • Death

Additionally, it is possible to develop a tolerance or physical dependence from the long-term use of benzodiazepines. The user may experience an array of benzo withdrawal symptoms when they stop using if dependence has developed. In this situation, the advised option is to get the help of a benzo detox and addiction treatment program.

Signs of Benzo Addiction

In addition to the physical effects of benzo addiction, there are a number of behavioral signs to look out for. These include:

  • Doctor shopping, or going to various doctors and pharmacies to obtain additional benzodiazepine prescriptions.
  • Having excessive amounts of prescription bottles.
  • Withdrawal from friends and family and spending time with a new group of friends.
  • No longer having an interest in activities that they previously enjoyed.
  • Consistently not having money for necessities like rent or other bills.
  • Exhibiting mood swings and unusual personality traits.
  • Maintaining secrecy about their day to day activities.
  • Putting little time or effort into general hygiene, grooming, and nutrition.

Benzodiazepines and Mental Health

Anxiety is one of the most common mental health diagnoses in the United States and it is one of the conditions benzodiazepines are used to treat. With that, it is not uncommon for an individual to struggle with addiction and anxiety at the same time. When diagnosed with both of these conditions it is referred to as a dual diagnosis. Recovery from co-occurring disorders has been shown to be most affected with they are treated concurrently. For this reason, individuals whose addiction began with a prescription for benzos to treat an anxiety disorder should seek treatment from a dual diagnosis addiction treatment program. Also, someone with a history of addiction should consider alternatives to benzodiazepines for anxiety treatment.

Benzo Addiction Recovery

Overcoming an addiction to benzodiazepines can be difficult as well as unpleasant. Both physical and emotional symptoms that may present when someone stops using may serve as an encouragement to relapse or discouragement to continue with treatment. Additionally, the risk of health issues and relapse during recovery are among the reasons why it is recommended to get help from a drug and alcohol rehab program.

Each individual’s treatment plan will vary depending on their individual needs and circumstances. Most often, a continuum of care at a benzo treatment program is recommended and may include:

Benzo Rehab at The Freedom Center

At The Freedom Center in Maryland, our team of care providers are skilled and experienced in benzo addiction recovery. We provide the highest quality of care to help our clients achieve a better, more fulfilling life. Making the call is the first step to freedom from addiction. Get started today!

Looking for Help?

Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7.
(888) 530-5023

Benzodiazepine Addiction Resources

Can You Get Addicted to Prescription Xanax?

Can You Get Addicted to Prescription Xanax?

In short, yes, a person can develop an addiction to Xanax. Close to 40% of Xanax users will develop a habit of it. Still, Xanax can effectively treat panic attacks, anxiety, and depression. Unfortunately, the drug is also considered highly addictive. Over 50 million...

These Are the Strongest Benzodiazepines

These Are the Strongest Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are sedative medications that create calming effects for patients suffering from mental health disorders like anxiety, insomnia, or seizures. It can also be prescribed for alcohol withdrawal symptoms or as a muscle relaxant. However, benzos are highly...

Can You Overdose On Benzos?

Can You Overdose On Benzos?

Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are prescription medications to treat anxiety, seizures, muscle spasms, and insomnia. In some cases, benzos are used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms in early detox. However, even when used as prescribed, people can develop a...

A Life Free From Addiction Is Possible

Our admissions coordinators are available 24/7.
(888) 530-5023
Skip to content