Benzodiazepine Addiction And Abuse

Understanding Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, or “Benzos,” are a class of pharmaceutical drugs prescribed for a spectrum of mental disorders and ailments. They are used to treat moderate to severe anxiety, panic attacks, epileptic seizures, and even withdrawal symptoms from other Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants, like alcohol. Because of their high potential to cause addiction, Benzodiazepines are generally prescribed for short-term use.

Most Benzodiazepines come in pill or tablet form for oral consumption. Some brands, like Valium, can also be administered intravenously as a clear, odorless liquid. Benzodiazepines are legal when they are prescribed. However, a black market for the drugs exists as well. On the street, Benzodiazepine drugs might go by other names like Tranks, Downers, Bars, Sticks, French Fries, Ladders, or simply Benzos.

Some common Benzodiazepines include:

• Valium
• Ativan
• Klonopin
• Librium
• Halcion

Benzodiazepines can be dangerous and addictive, even despite their medical validity and federal regulation. If you or a loved one is struggling with Benzodiazepine use, get rehab-related help today.

Benzodiazepines Effects And Abuse

Benzodiazepines bind with special neurons called GABA receptors in a process that slows overactive brain function and relieves severe mental stress. Those abusing Benzodiazepines can experience a euphoric “high” or alcohol-like “buzz” depending on the brand abused. This is followed by a prolonged sedation.

Any use of Benzodiazepines outside of a doctor’s recommendation constitutes abuse. Some Benzodiazepine users crush and snort their tablets or pills to amplify the potency. This increases the likelihood of overdose. Seizures and coma are common symptoms of a Benzo overdose.

Addiction To Benzodiazepines

Due to their high potency, Benzodiazepines can change the brain’s neurochemistry. Over time, the drugs build up in the user’s body. Users can develop mental and physical dependencies on the drugs as a result. The prevalence of Benzodiazepines as popular, oft-prescribed anti-anxiety medications means that people from every demographic and lifestyle can be exposed to them. Addiction can form even under a physician’s care and prescribed doses.

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Because Benzodiazepines are available by prescription, users and their loved ones are often unaware of the high potential for addiction and abuse. Signs of addiction that might be overlooked include developing a tolerance to the drugs’ sedative effects or dismissing important people and activities to focus solely on getting and abusing the drugs.

Benzodiazepines And Other Drugs

In order to boost their buzz, some users will mix the drugs with other CNS Depressants. Alcohol is typically the chosen CNS Depressant to combine with Benzodiazepines, but users might also take Benzos in conjunction with Opiate drugs to escalate both highs. Mixing Benzodiazepines with other prescription and illicit drugs greatly increases the odds of fatal overdose.

Signs And Symptoms Of Benzodiazepine Addiction

• Weakness
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness
• Blacking out
• Passing out
• Poor judgment
• “Doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions
• Asking others for their pills
• Inability to stop using despite making attempts
• Mood changes
• Engaging in risky behaviors
• Mixing Benzos with other drugs
• Impaired coordination
• Withdrawal symptoms

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

When the use of Benzodiazepines ceases or the familiar dose is significantly cut down, withdrawal symptoms typically emerge — and can soon turn deadly. Benzodiazepine withdrawal is especially dangerous because of the high risk of seizures, coma, and even death. Respiratory failure is also possible, especially when Benzodiazepines are combined with alcohol, Opioids, or other CNS Depressants.

Benzodiazepine Abuse Statistics

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Treating A Benzodiazepine Addiction

Now is your chance to seek help for yourself or a loved one, as treatment options are available across the country for Benzodiazepine abuse and addiction. Contact a treatment provider today to learn more.

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