Understanding Benzos
Benzodiazepines are a group of psychoactive drugs that slow the central nervous system. The drugs release gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), producing a calming, euphoric effect. This relaxing sensation helps curb a panic attack, promote healthy sleep, and relieve anxiety. Nevertheless, many individuals misuse benzos by taking high doses of the drugs to induce a “high.” Taking too many benzos, or mixing benzos with alcohol and other substances, can be fatal. For example, Florida Medical Examiners found that benzos were the third-most common drug found in overdose deaths.
There are various types of benzos, and each pill has both a generic and brand name. Some of the most common benzodiazepines include:
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Valium (diazepam)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
- Prosom (estazolam)
- Dalmane (flurazepam)
- Ativan (lorazepam)
- Librium (chlordiazepoxide)
- Restoril (temazepam)
Now, you might be wondering, does each benzo have the same effect? Each benzodiazepine has a different level of potency and half-life. For instance, you can feel the effects of Klonopin for up to 50 hours. Xanax, on the other hand, has a half-life of around 11 hours. Klonopin can effectively treat seizures, whereas Xanax works best to treat symptoms of panic disorder. Some benzos, such as Valium, can even relieve muscle spasms. Therefore, doctors don’t just prescribe benzodiazepine to those suffering from anxiety, as these pharmaceutical drugs can treat various conditions. In addition, benzos are widely available in the United States (and abroad) and are covered by insurance and Medicare plans.
Why Are Benzos So Addictive?
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and not easy to stop once you begin taking them. The extended use of benzos changes the brain’s natural balance, causing it to crave more of the drugs to get the euphoric, high-like sensation they invoke. Furthermore, some individuals may have to increase their dosage to continue to feel the desired effects. Stopping benzos cold-turkey can lead to serious side effects, such as psychosis, tremors, hallucinations, and seizures. Therefore, addicts should slowly wean off benzos with the help of professionals.
Since most benzodiazepines are legal in the United States (with a prescription), it’s easy to get your hand on these pharmaceutical drugs. Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse also shows that 20% of benzo misusers get the pills from their doctors. The other 80% typically receive benzodiazepines from family and friends (i.e., sharing prescriptions). Scientists recommend that doctors continuously monitor anyone with a benzodiazepine prescription for signs of misuse.
Benzos are also relatively affordable compared to other commonly-used drugs. And just because you have a prescription doesn’t mean you can’t become an addict. In addition, pop culture often glamorizes benzodiazepines, catching the attention of teenagers and young adults. There’s no doubt that benzo addiction is here to stay, so it’s essential for individuals to find an accommodating treatment facility that can support their needs and help them kick their addictions.
When Should You Seek Treatment for Benzo Addiction?
Taking benzos as prescribed doesn’t mean you need substance abuse treatment. In fact, benzodiazepines are highly effective at treating acute anxiety. However, there’s a fine line between healthy benzo use and addiction. For example, those addicted to benzodiazepines find that they can’t function without taking their benzo of choice. They may notice withdrawal symptoms, such as brain fog, irritability, and sleep disturbances.
Taking non-prescribed benzos is extremely dangerous as these pills may have high doses or traces of other illicit drugs (i.e., fentanyl). Moreover, individuals with a severe benzo addiction need more pills than their prescription can supply. Therefore, they turn to the street to fuel their addiction and purchase benzos from unreputable sources.
You should seek treatment for benzo addiction if you’re taking the drug more than prescribed or notice that the benzodiazepines are negatively impacting your life. For example, benzos can hinder your performance at school or work, damage your relationships, and cause financial problems. But, need not worry – it’s never too late to seek help, no matter how lost you feel. Although curbing a benzo addiction is challenging, it’s entirely doable with the help of licensed professionals.
You should never stop a benzo addiction without professional care. Withdrawal side effects can be deadly, and you should have a plan in place to help your body flush benzos. Our Florida detox center is perfect for easing off benzos under 24-7 supervision. You’ll work with our team to create a personalized treatment plan, including medicinal remedies that help manage withdrawal symptoms.
