Benzodiazepine Withdrawal & Addiction Treatment

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved benzodiazepines specifically for the treatment of:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Insomnia
• Social anxiety disorder
• Seizure disorders
• Panic disorders

Benzodiazepines are among the most frequently prescribed drugs in the United States. Some commonly known examples of benzodiazepines include: Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin. Though benzodiazepines are regulated medications, and are legal when properly used under the supervision of a medical professional, they have highly addictive qualities. An individual that abuses benzodiazepines (e.g. taking them more frequently than prescribed, taking them in addition to other substance, increasing one’s dose without authorization, ingesting them in a way different than prescribed…etc.) is at increased risk for developing an addiction. 

How Are Benzodiazepines Addictive? 

Medical News Today explains that benzodiazepines “alter the activity of the neurons that trigger stress and anxiety reactions.” When ingested, benzodiazepines affect one’s system by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter, known as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is a neurotransmitter that sends calming messages to the body. Benzodiazepines function by interacting with the natural functioning of one’s brain and central nervous system, which can lead to dependence when abused. Further, because of the highly addictive nature of benzodiazepines, even individuals who do not abuse benzodiazepines have the propensity to become addicted to them.

Signs and Symptoms of a Benzodiazepine Addiction

There are many possible signs and symptoms that can be exhibited by an individual that may be struggling with an addiction to benzos. These could include, but are not limited to the following, as provided by the Ohio Hospital For Psychiatry:  

• Increased respiratory infections
• Mood changes 
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness
• Headaches
• Irritability
• Memory impairment 
• Weight fluctuations

An individual does have the propensity to present with any combination of the above symptoms. It is important to note that each person is different and may have a slightly unique physiological response to the abuse of benzos. 

The Treatment Process

There are many treatment options available for a person who is addicted to benzodiazepines. The first step is for an individual to go through detox for benzodiazepine withdrawal treatment. This is the process that rids one’s body of all foreign substances. Benzodiazepines work by adjusting one’s brain functioning and the immediate stopping of use can result in severe withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, individuals who suffer from benzodiazepine addiction are highly encouraged to undergo a medically supervised detox program.

A person who has abused benzodiazepines for an extended period of time has most likely adjusted his or her way of life to accommodate his or her addiction. A formal substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program will help a person learn effective tools and techniques to live a sober life. Additionally, attending a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment program will enable an individual to focus on self-development and learning useful coping mechanisms to successfully navigate the long-term recovery process. 

Why Choose Annandale in Pasadena?

Annandale Behavioral Health is a private wellness center located in the beautiful hills of Pasadena, CA. Our center provides the ideal environment for guests to reconnect with nature while receiving a premium and personalized treatment. At Annandale, we honor each person’s individuality and have a core belief that everyone is capable of achieving true wellness. We understand that in order to heal, every person in recovery deeply benefits from a customized and tailored treatment plan, which we carefully develop for each of our guests. Our multidisciplinary clinical team is made up of highly regarded psychiatrists, physicians, therapists, nursing, and support staff.

Annandale Behavioral Health offers a full continuum of care, including medically supervised detox, stabilization, residential treatment, and aftercare services. We are here to support you every step of the way to help you learn how to lead a healthy, authentic, and fulfilling life that both promotes and supports true wellness.

If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one in regard to mental illness, substance abuse, and/ or addiction, please do not hesitate to reach out for guidance. Our admissions team is available to answer any general questions regarding substance abuse, addiction, mental health issues, treatment, and/or specific questions about our program here at Annandale Behavioral Health. We welcome the opportunity to discuss how we might best be able to help you or your loved one in the recovery process. Feel free to reach us by phone at 855-778-8668 or through our contact form. We look forward to supporting you on your journey.