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Benzos Addiction

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Benzodiazepines, often referred to as “benzos,” are a class of medications that act on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. 

They work by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which results in reduced brain activity. Benzos are commonly prescribed for conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle relaxation. However, they can be habit-forming and are typically regulated as controlled substances due to their potential for abuse and dependence.

Understanding Benzos Addiction

Did you know?

Benzodiazepines as Anxiety Reducers (Anxiolytics)

Benzos are commonly prescribed to reduce anxiety and in fact, the following are among the top 100 prescription medications in the United States. Here are some of the most common anxiolytics.

The use of sedatives as anxiolytics presents both potential benefits and concerns. While some anxiety disorders respond well to anxiolytics, others may be more effectively treated with antidepressants or behavioral therapy. One concern is that patients might take these drugs for extended periods, leading to possible over prescription. It is important to consider whether a person is taking the medication to treat a specific disorder or simply to feel better in general. When it comes to insomnia, the necessity of sedatives is debated, as their use can induce tolerance, dependence, rebound insomnia, and “hangover” effects. These factors highlight the need for careful consideration and management when using sedatives as part of treatment.

The Dark side of Benzodiazepines: Rohypnol

Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) a benzodiazepine known as the ‘date rape’ drug is seen on college campuses and in bars and night clubs and has a hypnotic effect. In 1997 the manufacture changed the formulation of this drug to dissolve in a drink, making it even more dangerous. This drug can easily be put in the drinks of unsuspected women (and men). The drug causes one to be highly suggestable and unable to remember, having a hypnotic effect that also leaves the user in a state of retrograde amnesia (RA), which is a loss of memory-access to events that occurred or information that was learned. Unfortunately, this makes it a very effective date rape drug or a drug that can be used to rob people.

The Symptoms of Benzos Addiction

Benzos Addiction

Benzodiazepine addiction can manifest through a variety of physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms.

Here are some common signs to look out for:

Physical Symptoms

Psychological Symptoms

Withdrawal Symptoms

Behavioral Symptoms

Patterns of Abuse

What are the Risk Factors?

Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam) a benzodiazepine known as the ‘date rape’ drug is seen on college campuses and in bars and night clubs and has a hypnotic effect. In 1997 the manufacture changed the formulation of this drug to dissolve in a drink, making it even more dangerous. This drug can easily be put in the drinks of unsuspected women (and men). The drug causes one to be highly suggestable and unable to remember, having a hypnotic effect that also leaves the user in a state of retrograde amnesia (RA), which is a loss of memory-access to events that occurred or information that was learned. Unfortunately, this makes it a very effective date rape drug or a drug that can be used to rob people.

Dependence

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Toxicity

Behavioral

Physiological

What is the Treatment?

Benzo Recovery

There are several effective treatments for benzodiazepine addiction, often tailored to the individual’s needs. These treatments can be used individually or in combination, depending on the person’s needs. 

Here are some common types of treatment:

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

Medication Management

The treatment for benzodiazepine addiction often involves a combination of medication and therapy to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Lifestyle and Self-Care

Support Groups

Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Hospitalization and Intensive Treatment

Medical Detoxification:

Medical detoxification may be necessary. Desert Star coordinates with a number of Detox facilities and hospitals as deemed clinically necessary. If referred to medical detox their medical team will monitor you for medical stability and safety until you are medically cleared. Their discharge team will then coordinate with Desert Star for admission to the program. The team at Desert Star will coordinate throughout your detoxification process.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP):

An intensive outpatient program that provides structured treatment for up to six hours during the day up to five days per week.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP):

An intensive outpatient program that provides structured treatment for up to three hours during the day up to four days per week.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Benzodiazepine abuse please know that there is help available. At Desert Star Addiction Recovery Center, we’re here to support you. We offer personalized care to help you live a life in long term recovery. Our personalized treatment includes supportive and structured group therapy three to four times a week, individual therapy sessions, access to medication management and case management. No matter what you are feeling right now there is hope! With treatment you can learn the tools needed to navigate your life in Long Term Recovery.

This is your journey
and we are here to help you every step of the way.

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Get the help you need without putting your outside commitments on hold! We individualize treatment for every client and can combine groups from different programs to suit your unique needs. We offer varying levels of structure and support, from partial hospitalization to intensive outpatient to once-weekly outpatient groups.

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