Benzodiazepines, or benzos, are medications prescribed by doctors that are addictive when misused or illicitly used. In 2018 alone, 5.2 million adults misused the drug for its euphoric effects, and many might not have realized that benzos can have long-lasting effects on the brain. The problem with misuse is it can lead to benzo addiction and a need to seek professional treatment at a drug addiction rehab.
Do you need benzo addiction treatment? Call us today at 866.957.7885 for more information.
What Are Benzos?
Benzodiazepines fall into a class of prescription drugs known as central nervous system (CNS) depressants and are widely prescribed for their sedative, hypnotic, or tranquilizing effects. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug for the short-term treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, insomnia, and seizures. The drugs work by raising the level of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA in the brain. This action calms or sedates the person. However, there is a potential for abuse and dependence on the CNS depressants, particularly by individuals with a history of substance abuse.
There are three main types of benzodiazepines:
- Short-acting drugs, such as alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan), which have a rapid onset of action and a short duration of action.
- Intermediate-acting drugs, such as diazepam (Valium) and clorazepate (Tranxene), which have a slower onset of action but a longer duration of action.
- Long-acting drugs, such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium) and flurazepam (Dalmane), which have a slow onset of action but a long duration of action.
Benzodiazepines are generally safe and effective when used as prescribed. However, there is a potential for abuse and dependence, particularly by individuals with a history of substance abuse.
The effects of benzodiazepines vary depending on the type of drug, the dose, and the individual. Short-acting drugs generally have a rapid onset of action and a short duration of action. Intermediate-acting drugs have a slower onset of action but a longer duration of action. Long-acting drugs have a slow onset of action but a long duration of action.
If you think you or someone you know may be abusing benzodiazepines, it is important to seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist.
Common Types of Benzos
Different types of benzodiazepines are used to treat different conditions
Benzos for Anxiety
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Lorazepam (Activan)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene)
- Oxazepam (Serax)
Benzos for Insomnia
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Flurazepam (Dalmane)
- Estazolam (Prosom)
Diazepam and clonazepam are also commonly prescribed to treat seizures. Benzos come in the form of tablets, capsules, and injections and are classed according to how quickly they work (fast-acting, intermediated acting or long-acting). Those who abuse the depressants to get high usually go for the fast-acting types such as diazepam and clorazepate. Both medications take effect within 30 to 60 minutes.
How Do Benzos Cause Addiction?
People who abuse tranquilizers may not stop to find out what are benzos or how abusing the medication affects the brain. Benzo drug dependence and addiction occur from taking more doses than prescribed or taking it for a longer period than prescribed. You’ll soon realize you need larger doses to get the desired effect. You’ll find it difficult to stop taking it and experience withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety or insomnia, when you try to stop.
Dependence also stems from mixing the drug with alcohol or illicit or other prescription drugs, e.g., opioids, to enhance the euphoric effects. Combining it with opioids is a dangerous practice since the sedative effects can suppress breathing, impair cognitive functions, and lead to an overdose. Benzodiazepine overdose contributes to a significant number of emergency room visits and hospital admissions. A shocking 23% of people who died of an opioid overdose in 2015 also tested positive for benzodiazepines.
Recovering at a Drug Addiction Treatment Center in San Antonio, TX
San Antonio Recovery Center can help you if you’re seeking admission to a benzo drug rehab in San Antonio. Our doctors will evaluate you to determine your recovery needs. To get over addiction you’ll need to detox and withdraw from the drug through a process called detoxification. Our physicians will help you manage withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, and insomnia. You will be ready to enter one of our treatment programs once the drug leaves your system. The different rehabilitative programs and therapies we offer include:
- Intensive outpatient program
- Residential program
- Inpatient rehab
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Family therapy
- Holistic therapy
Addiction therapy involves sitting with our certified therapist and working through the reasons for drug abuse and exploring positive ways to cope. Medication management is another strategy used to help you receive treatment for diagnosed physical or mental conditions while minimizing the risk of dependence.
Sedative dependence can happen to anyone. Here’s your chance to put addiction behind you and turn a new leaf. Our compassionate staff will personalize a treatment plan that focuses on your needs and will provide support every step of the way. Call 866.957.7885, or contact us online to find out more about our programs and requirements for admissions to our men’s rehab or women’s rehab.
