Benzodiazepines: Addiction and Abuse

Benzodiazepines are a prescription medication that many people take legally. They are also highly addictive and difficult to quit using because of the withdrawal symptoms they can cause. They are also commonly prescribed for anxiety or to help somebody physically relax. Some doctors will even prescribe it for rare nerve pain or headache management.

Benzos have been considered everyday medications since the 1990s, but many people are still unaware of the dangers of using these common prescription drugs. Medicines that belong in this class include Klonopin, Valium, and Xanax.

Symptoms of Addiction to Benzodiazepines

Most people who are addicted to drugs show symptoms of their addiction. Sometimes it is subtle, such as canceling plans with family or friends. As it progresses, however, the addicted person will have trouble managing their life. Their addiction may put their relationships, finances, and freedom at risk. It’s not uncommon for people who abuse drugs to break the law to get more of their drug of choice.

People who abuse drugs or alcohol, including benzodiazepines, will keep a stash of the drugs in a safe place. You might find half-pills or bottles of prescriptions that don’t belong to them. They may try to get a prescription by lying to their doctor or going to a new doctor.

Finally, a person who is addicted to drugs will take more of the drug than needed. They will display addictive behavior like trying to ration or get ahold of more of their drug to get the “fix” they need.

An addicted person will go to desperate lengths to get their drug of choice.

Benzo Addiction is Dangerous

Benzo addiction can be deadly. When a person is abusing benzodiazepines, they are at risk for overdose because they breathe more slowly the more drug they have in their body. Some people drink or use opioids alongside benzo, which can cause a deadly reaction or overdose.

Increasingly, coroners are finding that people who have overdosed on drugs have a combination of benzos and opioids in their body at the same time.

People who try to quit abusing benzodiazepines can experience severe withdrawal symptoms. For most people, clinical detox is recommended before drug rehabilitation starts.

Getting Help for Addiction

Addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease of the brain that can cause a lot of pain in a person’s life. You don’t have to live that way anymore! Our offices are open and welcome new clients! We can help answer questions about our program at 855-976-1495.