Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment
Orange County Drug & Alcohol Rehab
Benzodiazepine Addiction and Abuse
Benzodiazepines are a highly addictive class of drugs and one of the largest classes of medications that are abused. Dependence and misuse of this substance have been a concern in the U.S. since 2002. Even a low therapeutic dose can result in dependence; therapeutic dose dependence is, in fact, the largest category of people dependent on benzodiazepine, have an addiction and are on a path to detoxification and withdrawal management.
Benzodiazepine dependence is a frequent complication for those prescribed for or using one of the drugs longer than four weeks, with physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms the most common effects. Because they risk developing tolerance, dependence, and adverse health effects, including cognitive impairment, benzodiazepines are indicated for short-term use.
Ativan®, Klonopin®, Rohypnol®, Valium®, and Xanax® are Some of the drugs in this category that have a calming effect on most brain functions, relaxing muscles, preventing convulsions and inducing sleep. They are commonly prescribed for:
- Alcohol Withdrawal
- Generalized Anxiety Disorders
- Insomnia
- Panic Disorders
A low dose acts as a sedative; moderate doses counter anxiety, and high doses serve as hypnotics.
If you are wondering if you might be addicted to a benzodiazepine, ask yourself:
- Have you developed a tolerance to a benzodiazepine, taking larger amounts or for longer than intended?
- Have you tried, unsuccessfully, to decrease or control your use or suffer from withdrawal symptoms when you don’t take the drug?
- Despite its harmful effects, are you seeking out the drug, visiting more than one doctor to get multiple prescriptions, getting drugs from friends, family, or drug dealers?
If you answered “yes,” you are likely addicted…. and not alone.
The longer a benzodiazepine is used, the greater their risk. Long-term use can lead to addiction, which may be exhibited by behavioral and physical signs, like aggression, changes in personality, chronic sweating, dizziness, irritability, lethargy, memory impairment, nausea, and restlessness.
People addicted to benzodiazepines are detached from life and seem to have lost interest in everything, withdrawing from events and interactions with others. They may have reduced inhibitions, poor coordination, and blurred vision. Chronic users may be anorexic, weak, show poor judgment, and have difficulty making decisions. Despite all these negatives, they may feel that continued drug use is preferable to going through a painful withdrawal process.
Withdrawal is often accompanied by anxiety, depression, headaches, muscle aches and pains, shakiness, sleep disturbance, tremors, and twitches. It is best to enlist the help of recovery specialists who can administer medications to ease the pain of withdrawal symptoms and provide counseling and assistance with psychological issues that can include suicidal behavior, psychoses, and delirium tremens. The symptoms of withdrawal can last for some time.
Recovery is an ongoing process. Take back your life today! Get the help you need to kick the benzodiazepine habit with detox, rehab, and social support.
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What is Etizolam?
What Is Etizolam? More formally known as 7-(2-chlorophenyl)- 4-ethyl- 13-methyl- 3-thia- 1,8,11,12- tetraazatricyclo [8.3.0.02,6}] trideca- 2(6),4,7,10,12- pentaene – is a novel chemical of the thienodiazepine class. Typically sold in pellet form, each containing <=1mg of Etizolam. Effects have been reported similar to Xanax®, another benzodiazepine analog.
Etizolam remains a benzodiazepine analog. From research and feasibility study, it is important to know that a benzodiazepine is different from the etizolam molecule. This is simply because the benzene ring or cycle has be replaced by a thiophene structure. Nevertheless, the drug is now completely a thienodiazepine. The drug contains anxiolytic, amnesic, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, skeletal muscle relaxant, and sedative features. Read on to understand the comprehensive details of etizolam.
Etizolam is considered a Thienodiazepine, which is similar in molecular composition to benzodiazepine medications. However, it has a thiophene ring instead of a benzene ring. The effects of this research chemical are similar to those of benzodiazepines. Withdrawal effects are not as harsh as benzo withdrawal. Etizolam 1mg and 0.5mg tablets are the two most common forms of the drug, and both dosage options have a half-life of 6 hours. Most manufacturers package Etizolam in blister packets to ensure authenticity and sanitation. Common brand names:
- Ezilam
- Etizest
- Etilaam
- Suprabenz
- Etizola
- Anxicool
- Sylkam
- Solopose
- Etimed
- Etirest
- Etilite
Proper Dosages: The drug is commonly used to treat anxiety, depression, and mood disorders. The 0.5mg dose is typical for panic disorder, 1.0mg is typical for generalized anxiety and 1mg or 2mg doses are typical for short-term treatment of insomnia. It may also be used for seizures or musculoskeletal problems.
Most doctors are cautious to use the smallest possible dose for a patient’s condition. The drug has a high risk for tolerance, which increases dependence, abuse and then, addiction. When it is prescribed in higher doses, it is often prescribed only for a short amount of time. However, withdrawal is usually not as severe as benzodiazepine withdrawal.
What Is Etizolam Used For? In India, Japan, and Italy, it is used to treat as a prescription medication to treat several ailments including depression, anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and musculoskeletal issues. Doctors in these countries typically prescribe dosage regimens that will minimize the risk of dependency. Etizolam has not been approved for legal human consumption in many other countries. However, it is still used as a research chemical. Although it is legal to buy and use in personal lab research, it is not legal for use in experiments that involve human or animal consumption of the drug.
Etizolam Side Effects
One of the biggest concerns is the risk of abuse and addiction. This is why the drug is recommended in low doses, and patients are often advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking Etizolam. Some of the common side effects of the drug include:
- Drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of Coordination
- Headache
- Fainting
- Confusion
- Loss of Libido
- Depression
- Tremor
Rare Etizolam Side Effects
Rare side effects may be present in people who have an intolerance to the drug or in those who have existing medical conditions. To avoid rare and severe side effects, doctors do not typically prescribe the drug to people with:
- Hypersensitivity
- Lung Disorders
- Liver Disease
- Kidney Failure
- Eye Pressure
- Drug Addiction
- Coma and Sleep Disorders
Instances of death from Etizolam abuse are rare in comparison with deaths from benzodiazepine abuse. Some of the other rare side effects include:
- Memory Loss
- Seizures and Learning Difficulties
When present, these negative outcomes are often related to abuse rather than from following the recommended doses.
What is Valium?
Valium is the brand name for the drug Diazepam, a central nervous system depressant used to treat moderate to severe anxiety disorders, insomnia, and alcohol withdrawal. Users are not immune to Valium dependence and addiction with over medication. More than 1 million Americans have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders, which include:
- Panic Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- Social & General Anxiety
- Social Phobias
How Does Valium® Work? This drug calms brain functions by releasing Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Neurotransmitters into the central nervous system, creating a sense of calm and relaxation.
Common side effects of Valium can be severe, and include but, not limited to:
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Slurred Speech
- Headache
- Constipation
- Slowed heart rate
- Low Blood Pressure
- Double or Altered Vision
- Sexual Side Effects including Low Libido
Side effects can often be managed or lessened by adjusting the Valium dosage.
Abuse: The potential for Valium dependence and addiction is very high. It is both psychologically and physically addicting and tolerance to the drug builds up quickly with repeated use. An increased tolerance to the drug causes the user to take a larger dose or need more frequent dosing to achieve the same level of relief or experience the same “high”, in this case, calmness. Patients with a history of drug or alcohol abuse are especially vulnerable to Valium dependency or abuse.
Experts call Valium a “secondary drug of abuse”, meaning that it is often taken to supplement and elevate the high of another substance. The risk of overdose and death when mixing Valium with other drugs is high, especially when mixed with alcohol. Valium is also used by addicts to lessen withdrawal symptoms from other drugs, including heroin.
Valium is a widely prescribed central nervous system depressant used to treat moderate to severe anxiety disorders which leads to dependence typically related to over-medicating. There are common side effects. Taking Valium repeatedly for two or three days is enough to cause withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped abruptly. Withdrawal symptoms can be mild to moderate and include insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks, heart palpitations, hypertension, sweating, depression, cramps, nausea, and vomiting.
A gradual tapering schedule should be administered, followed, and monitored to avoid withdrawal.
What is Ativan?
Ativan® is a prescription drug that doctors use to treat anxiety symptoms and insomnia. But just like other mood altering drugs and substances, a number of people find themselves abusing it which later on leads to Ativan addiction. Ativan abuse of the drug includes using it when to prescribed by the doctor, taking more doses than indicated in the prescription, using it as a recreational medicine or combining it with other mood altering substances. In most cases, Ativan® will prescribed for less than four months and should you encounter any difficulties after stopping its use, then you need to seek medical attention as this is a direct pointer towards addiction.
Causes of Ativan Addiction
There are a lot of studies revolving Ativan addiction going on at the moment and it is not very clear what makes people to be addicted to Ativan®. However, the following are suspected to be the some of the greatest contributing factors in Ativan addiction:
- Genetics – people who have first degree relatives who had addiction problem may have higher chances of getting addicted to Ativan®
- Brain chemistry – Ativan® affects the central nervous system which essentially changes the functioning of the brain. If the brain can’t produce certain pleasure chemicals, then it might see Ativan®as an alternative and this might lead to addiction.
- Environmental factors – Individuals can also find themselves addicted to Ativan® as a way of coping with unwanted emotions.
- Liver damage
- Psychological factors – Ativan addiction may also occur when an individual relies on the substance to control certain psychological effects such as insomnia, depression or anxiety. Though this is one of its main uses, continued use and without prescription may lead to addiction.
Symptoms of Ativan Abuse
There are a plethora of symptoms that points towards Ativan abuse. They include a combination of mood symptoms, behavioral symptoms, physical symptoms and psychological symptoms such as light-headedness and hallucinations. The side effects of Ativan® on the other hand include kidney failure, extreme depression, red eyes, respiratory failure etc.
What is Demerol?
Benzodiazepines (“Benzos”)are typical medicines usually employed for dealing with severe used to treat insomnia, anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and panic disorder. The Benzodiazepine are known by many common brand names; Xanax, Klonopin, lorazepam, Ativan, Valium,and more. However, Pethidine is also a Benzo and is known to many as Meperidine Demerol or Demerol® alone. In the year 1930, Demerol was introduced as a potent analgesic with the Opiate Morphine having comparable results but considered much safer. Benzodiazepine addiction has rapid withdrawal effects that may potentially lead to elevated severity and dependency, which may also result in grave physical signs and symptoms. The easiest method to minimize and even prevent the discomfort that accompanies Demerol detox and withdrawal is through gradual cessation. The total time required for complete withdrawal can take a few months to many years. It depends on how severe the Benzodiazepine addiction is/were for the patient.
Nevertheless, throughout therapy, generally, short-term goals (usually under 6 weeks) could be recommended. Extensive therapeutic programs are often regarded as monotonous and studies have shown they don’t bear positive fruits over time. Other significant factors that will play a significant role in identifying which kind of therapeutic intervention ought to be used include lifestyle, environmental conditions, personality status, and also general available support.
Demerol Withdrawal Signs & Symptoms: Benzodiazepine addiction withdrawal effects can best become handled by transference of physical dependence to some equal dose quantity of a substance because it normally has severely lengthy-acting metabolites which operate on low-potency pills these may further be quartered up for more compact amounts. One extra advantage of scalping strategies would be that the compounds will also be offered inside a liquid form that even leads to slighter dose cutbacks.
While the first is going through treatment, it is usually suggested to prevent all antibiotics produced from Fluoroquinolone, because they possess and capacity of this common Benzodiazepines binding and additional cut lower on producing Gamma aminobutyric acid causes worsen and the withdrawal effects.
Antipsychotics are often not suggested as a fix for this medication and withdrawal given that they will lower of user’s seizure edge as well as worsen any related withdrawal signs and symptoms. When one takes to presenting these medicines, proper caution needs to be looked at being an overdose may potentially lead to severe dependency syndromes that could have time to recover of several weeks or perhaps years.
Other withdrawal signs and symptoms, as familiar with lengthy-term customers, have demonstrated to become advantageous to particular categories of people. It can cause an enhanced biological and state of mind, especially among senior persons. However, scientists happen to be quick to notice these couple of advantageous results of the substance might be outcomes of some covered-up withdrawal habits.
Benzo Detox and Withdrawal
Benzo use is skyrocketing throughout the U.S. and abroad. The number one benzodiazepine being abused today is Xanax®, and no other Benzo even comes close. Of all clients entering treatment for Benzo detox and withdrawal the ratio is 1000:1 for Xanax abuse over all other Benzo’s combined.
The difficulty with Benzodiazepine detox is that it has the potential to cause death. The key to Benzo detox is a slow taper with concomitant medications to alleviate discomfort, pulse rate, blood pressure, and anxiety. Xanax is often prescribed as an anti-anxiety medication. Xanax is an un-coated medication available in three doses; 0.5mg, 1.0mg, 2.0mg tablets.
- Valium® is prescribed to treat anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, and sleep disorders. It comes in two doses 5mg and 10 mg tablets
- Ativan® is often prescribed for anxiety, withdrawal symptoms, and sleep disorders. This medication comes in three doses; 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 2.0 mg tablets
- Klonipin® is often prescribed for panic attacks and seizures. This medications comes in 5 doses; 0.125 mg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg and 2.0 mg tablets.
How bad is the withdrawal?
Xanax® addiction is a significant problem in homes across America. Many Xanax users are not aware of their physical and psychological dependence until they try to stop. Once they try to stop they feel panicked and overwhelming anxiety. The irony here is unbelievable. You take Xanax to alleviate anxiety and when you try to stop you go through unbearable anxiety attacks.
Physicians treat symptoms – that’s their job. You can’t blame the physician who is required by law to treat people’s symptoms. But if that same person goes doctor shopping or takes more than their prescription allows then Xanax use has then gravitated to Xanax abuse. Over time Xanax abuse eventually becomes Xanax addiction. Xanax addiction detox is the best solution to treat Xanax withdrawals.
How bad are the Withdrawal Symptoms?
- Profuse Sweating
- Muscle
- Cramps
- Depression
- Increased Pulse Rate
- Visual Hallucinations
- Tingling Appendages
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Insomnia
- Seizure
- Stroke
- Death
Xanax addicts experience Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms that can last several weeks or longer if not appropriately treated. Xanax withdrawal symptoms are similar to alcohol withdrawal symptoms and barbiturate withdrawal symptoms.
Xanax withdrawal is one of the most dangerous types of drug detox. Xanax withdrawals have the potential for death. Physician oversight with appropriate medication safety protocols is a necessity to safely detox.
How can a person Detox off Benzos?
If your daily use of Xanax or other benzos exceeds the guidelines of your prescription, the need for a Benzodiazepine Detoxification Center is paramount. Benzo addicts cannot detoxify themselves.
Untreated Benzo withdrawal increase anxiety. Ironically, Benzo users solve anxiety by using Benzo. The propensity to self-medicate withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety by taking Benzo’s makes it virtually impossible to successfully detox at home.
Our Orange County Rehab center treats Benzo users to help them regain their freedom and self-respect by removing their addiction in comfort and dignity.