The Texas Health and Human Services department recommends slowly tapering benzodiazepine use over time to prevent withdrawal symptoms. And when someone newly prescribed Xanax or another benzo hears this, it can leave them worried. Does this mean they will be “addicted”?
At San Antonio Recovery Center, we know how difficult navigating these concerns can be. Medication is supposed to help, but when there are side effects that can happen just from stopping, it’s often scary and disorienting.
So today, we’re going to talk about what actually causes benzodiazepine withdrawals, the symptoms that can occur, and what treatment options may be available to help.
Benzodiazepines, sometimes referred to as “benzos”, are a class of drugs used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and sometimes as a supplemental treatment for depression.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal occurs as a result of how benzodiazepine works in the body. When someone takes benzodiazepine, it typically causes their brain to be flooded with high levels of the chemical GABA. Over time, their brain can adjust to these increased levels, eventually needing them to function properly – this is known as developing a dependence. When these levels drop too low, it can lead to a wide range of side effects and cravings. For this reason, many doctors will slowly taper individuals off of benzodiazepines, allowing their brain to adjust to lower and lower doses.
It’s important to highlight that just because someone experiences withdrawal symptoms does not mean they are addicted to benzodiazepines – there is a core difference between dependence and addiction. However, many who live with a benzodiazepine use disorder will experience withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to stop, and getting help during this time can be key to escaping that cycle.
Most symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal are uncomfortable, but not life threatening. However, they are all worth taking seriously. Even seemingly minor symptoms can quickly become debilitating, and their more intense counterparts may require medical supervision. As a general rule, the longer or higher-doses someone has been taking, the stronger the withdrawal symptoms will be.
These symptoms range from physical to psychological. Similar to alcohol, when experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal, it is best to seek medical attention to safely “detox”.
The most common symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal are psychological. While these may lead to long-term conditions such as brain fog or depression, a wide variety of symptoms can occur. Some of the most common include:
Physical symptoms can be even more disruptive. These include:
Benzodiazepines describe a wide array of substances, including popular medications like Xanax, Valium, and Klonopin. The timeline of withdrawal can vary greatly depending on a number of factors. Most importantly, the dosage and duration of benzodiazepine use will impact how quickly and for how long symptoms will appear. Faster-acting medications can lead to withdrawal more quickly after the last dose, and slower-release medicines can delay its symptoms.
These symptoms generally take between 6 and 24 hours after the previous dose to appear. Minor symptoms such as headaches or irritability often show up first, with more intense symptoms beginning within a few days. This can last for up to a month, though most symptoms peak within that first week.
For some individuals, what is known as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome can occur, where withdrawal symptoms can reappear even months after the last dose. While this is rare, it’s important to know that it is a possibility in the event these symptoms show back up.
While doctors often slowly wean their clients off of benzodiazepines, that isn’t always possible, especially in cases of illicit use. And while withdrawal symptoms are generally not dangerous, medical detox may be necessary under several conditions.
First, if withdrawal symptoms continue to worsen after the initial stage, it’s important to seek medical attention. Symptoms can change quite rapidly, and early signs should always be heeded.
Secondly, if more serious symptoms present themselves. Seizures, lack of consciousness, severe muscle pain, or hallucinations should be taken as serious medical emergencies. Seek immediate professional attention if you or a loved one experience these symptoms.
Detoxing under medical supervision not only helps keep people safe, it makes them significantly more likely to stop using the substance and continue their recovery. When it comes to health, it is often best to err on the side of caution.
When your loved one is going through withdrawal from benzodiazepines, it can leave you feeling lost. You just want to help, and the symptoms seem to be getting worse. If your partner is experiencing intense withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking benzodiazepines, the first step is to talk to their doctor.
If their doctor hasn’t been able to help, or if your loved one has tried to stop and can’t, it may be time to look into a local rehab for benzodiazepine addiction. There, expert clinicians can help them navigate this difficult process, keeping them safe and on the path to recovery.
At San Antonio Recovery Center, community is a part of our DNA. That’s why we invest in your journey – not just during treatment, but as far as your recovery takes you. We have the largest alumni community in the region, because we want to ensure you have the tools and skills needed to reclaim your future. To find out more, connect with us today at 866-957-7885, or through our website.
Strength. Acceptance. Recovery. Community.
Q: Do benzodiazepines need to be tapered off?
A: While each person’s medical needs will vary, most doctors recommend tapering patients off of benzodiazepine use. This helps alleviate potential withdrawal symptoms, while still helping address the underlying needs for benzodiazepines.
contact us now!
