Benzodiazepines, also known as Benzos, are prescription sedatives. Drugs such as Xanax, Valium, Ativan, and Klonopin are the most popular examples of Benzos. Physicians will prescribe benzos to help people deal with the mania associated with bipolar disorder. Benzos can help control restlessness and insomnia as it is a mood stabilizer and will never be prescribed for more than two weeks. However, benzos are also highly addictive. It is not uncommon for benzo abuse to occur, with people believing they need to rely on the drug. Benzo addiction treatment will help you live life without relying on prescription drugs.
What Is A Benzo Addiction?
Many people wonder if they are considered to be addicted to benzos. According to the National Association of Addiction Professionals, a person needs to exhibit two out of 11 symptoms within 12 months. Benzo addiction may be present if the following behaviors exist:
- Taking the drug at a greater dosage than intended
- Taking for an extended time–you should not take prescribed sedatives for more than two weeks.
- A user must spend time getting the drug, using it, and recovering from the effects.
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when benzos are not in the system. This could include cravings, shivers, and other effects of not using.
- Developing a tolerance for benzos means a user will need to use more to achieve the same effect.
- Unable to meet familial obligations.
- Decreased performance at work or school.
- Less interest in participating in extracurricular activities and hobbies that once brought joy.
What Are Short-Term Side Effects of Benzo Abuse?
When people take benzos as a prescription, the side effects are mild. This is because a physician prescribes a dose to support your immediate needs. However, when you take an unprescribed dosage, your short-term side effects will be more severe. The short term side effects of benzos include:
- Clammy skin
- Dilated pupils
- Drowsiness
- Erratic behavior
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of coordination
- Dry mouth
- Memory Loss
- Moodiness
- Nausea
- Impaired Vision
- Slowed breathing and motor function
What Are Long-Term Side Effects of Abusing Benzos?
As the abuse continues, the long-term side effects of benzos will become more apparent. The long-term impact will have physical and psychological, and behavioral impacts on users. These include:
- Constant confusion
- Not making strong decisions
- Memory loss and problems
- Weakened muscles
- Slurred speech
When people use benzos for long periods, they will not receive a prescription from a physician. As a result, they will have to rely on getting benzos illegally, presenting them with legal troubles. This could mean participating in risky behaviors such as stealing or prostitution to feed their addictions.
Get Support For Prescription Drug Addiction at Rise Above Treatment
If benzo abuse is part of your life, it is time to seek help. Long-term use of benzos can cause serious harm to your mind and body. In addition, because you are concentrating so much of your energy on feeding your addiction, you are not focused on your home, work, or school responsibilities. Rise Above Treatment offers several addiction treatment options to support people in need of rehabilitation. We offer the following rehabilitation programs:
- Medical Detox
- Residential Rehabilitation
- Intensive Outpatient Treatment
- Partial Hospitalization
- Women’s Rehab Program
- Men’s Rehab Program
- Sober Living
If you are ready to take the first step in ending your addiction to benzos or any other substance, it is time to begin now. Our staff of physicians and addiction treatment specialists is here to support you through detox and the recovery process. Not to mention, living in an environment with others who have similar experiences and a desire to be sober will keep you motivated to complete your treatment program. For more information, contact (877) 641-0717.
