ADDICTION TO BENZOS
Benzos: What They Are, the Signs of Abuse, and Benzo Rehab Options at Prevail Recovery Center
Benzodiazepines, or benzos, are prescription drugs commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Benzos are often prescribed for short-term relief but can be addictive and lead to abuse if not taken as prescribed. Benzo addiction can be challenging to overcome on your own, which is why it is crucial to seek professional help at a benzo rehab center like Prevail Recovery.
Our treatment options are tailored specifically for those struggling with benzo addiction, and we offer both inpatient and outpatient drug rehab for benzos.
Contact Prevail Recovery Center today to learn more about our top-rated drug rehabs across the Nation.
What are Benzos?
Benzodiazepines, also known as Benzos, are a form of prescription drug that act as central nervous system depressants. Benzos work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which results in a calming effect
Why are Benzos Prescribed?
Benzos are typically prescribed for short-term relief of anxiety or panic disorders, sleep disorders, and depression.
Find out more about prescription drug abuse by reading our blog, Is There Addiction Treatment Rehab for Prescription Drug Abuse?
Are BenzosAddictive?
Currently, these Schedule IV closed substances are often prescribed for short-term relief of symptoms, but they can be addictive and lead to abuse if not taken as prescribed. Although they are considered to have low levels of dependence and misuse, Benzo addiction can be challenging to overcome on your own, which is why it is essential to seek professional help at Benzo rehab center like Prevail Recovery.
What are signs of a Benzo Addiction?
- Overall body weakness
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Coordination issues
- Memory problems
- Slowed breathing
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Reduced blood pressure
- Making poor choices
- Increased impulsivity
- Seeking prescriptions from friends or family for benzos
- Frequently using up prescriptions before refill time
- Getting prescriptions from multiple physicians
- Feeling unable to reduce or stop despite wanting to do so
- Mixing benzos with alcohol or another substance
- Behaving impulsively when taking benzos or under the effects of benzos
- Being fixated on getting and taking benzos
- Experiencing problems with relationships, work, or school
- Experiencing legal and financial issues
- Isolating from others
- Hiding the extent of benzo use or being secretive about it
What are the Dangers of Benzo Abuse?
Benzo abuse can lead to several dangerous side effects, including:
- Memory loss
- Blurred Vision
- Confused thoughts
- Difficulty with movement
- Drowsiness and dizziness
- Aggression
- Irritability
- Loss of focus
- Slurred speech
- Slowed breathing
Continued Misuse may result in:
- Dependence
- Tolerance
- Overdose
- Brain damage
What Happens During Benzo Withdrawal?
Although withdrawal is hazardous, it does not result in coma or death in most cases. However, it is still advised safely in a benzo treatment center. Often Benzo withdrawal contains many unpleasant symptoms like:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Muscle pain
- Heart palpitations
- Tremors
- Seizures
Since most Benzos have a short half-life, withdrawal can begin relatively quickly. Usually, within 24 hours, patients can start feeling the first symptoms of withdrawal. However, the duration of withdrawal can range from several days to months, depending on the type of benzo. In fact, it is not uncommon for withdrawal symptoms to last years for those frequently abused over a prolonged period.
What are the Stages ofBenzo withdrawal?
Overall, the worst withdrawal symptoms tend to occur within two weeks of stoppage of use and gradually decrease in severity. Throughout the process, patients will generally notice three distinct phases:
Early Withdrawal
During the early withdrawal stage, which begins shortly after ceasing use, repressed feelings like anxiety occur—additionally, symptoms of insomnia increase.
Acute Withdrawal
Within a few days of not using Benzos, the acute phase begins. Some of the harshest withdrawal symptoms occur during this phase. In the acute phase, patients complained of prolonged confusion, mood swings, cravings, aggression, nausea and vomiting, paranoia and anxiety, blurred vision, and muscle pains.
In the worst cases, patients also experience hallucinations, seizures, and memory impairment. Although this phase may persist for years in rare instances, in most cases, it is done within several months.
Protracted Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms that persist make up the protracted stage. During this stage, symptoms like cognitive deficits, sleep disturbances, muscle weakness or spasms, and anxiety are found to be challenging to manage. In fact, the development of these comorbid illnesses usually requires additional treatment and mental health interventions for recovery.
How Can you Patients Find Benzo Treatment Near You?
Benzo treatment options can often be found by contacting your insurance company or looking on their website. Many have search tools available to help policyholders find nearby in-network addiction providers and facilities.
Prevail Recovery is a Benzo Addiction Treatment Center
Benzo addiction is a severe problem, but it is one that can be overcome with the proper treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with Benzo addiction, please reach out to us at Prevail Recovery.
We offer various treatment options that can be customized to meet your unique needs and help you on your journey to recovery. Benzos don’t have to control your life – there is hope!
Don’t wait to get help. Contact Prevail Recovery today to learn more about our Benzo addiction treatment center.
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