Benefits and Cautions
Benzodiazepines, or benzos for short, are psychoactive medications successfully used to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, panic, and seizures (among many other things) for decades.
Are they addictive? Benzodiazepine prescriptions are common, and yes, benzos are addictive.
If you are looking for information, have been prescribed this medication, or are worried you have become dependent on benzodiazepines, here is a list of Benzodiazepines. We will cover their classification, how they work, the potential dangers of benzodiazepine addiction, and the available treatment options.
Introduction to Benzodiazepines
With their introduction in the 1950s, benzodiazepines rapidly became one of the world’s most widely prescribed drug categories. Increasing the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain relaxes the user by reducing the activity in the central nervous system. The Controlled Substances Act places benzodiazepines on Schedule IV due to their high potential for misuse and dependence.
Commonly Prescribed Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are among the most widely prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States, and research in Psychiatric Services documents how sharply prescriptions have risen over the past two decades. The following is a list of some commonly prescribed benzodiazepines, along with their relative strength:
- Alprazolam (Xanax): A is a potent anxiolytic and sedative used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and insomnia.
- Clonazepam (Klonopin): A highly potent anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant that is commonly used to treat panic disorder, seizure disorders, and anxiety disorders.
- Diazepam (Valium): A highly potent anxiolytic, hypnotic, and muscle relaxant commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, and muscle spasms.
- Lorazepam (Ativan): A highly potent anxiolytic and sedative commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders.
- Temazepam (Restoril): A highly potent hypnotic commonly used to treat insomnia.
- Oxazepam (Serax): A relatively less potent anxiolytic commonly used to treat anxiety disorders and alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
List of Benzodiazepines – Less-common
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Flurazepam (Dalmane)
- Midazolam (Versed)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene)
- Estazolam (Prosom)
- Quazepam (Doral)
- Loprazolam (Dormonoct)
- Clobazam (Onfi)
- Nitrazepam (Mogadon)
Benzodiazepine Dependence
Benzodiazepine dependence can develop quickly, even with short-term use. Physical dependence occurs when the body adapts to the presence of the drug and needs it to function normally.
Psychological dependence comes from the drug’s effects on the brain’s reward system, which can create a powerful craving for the drug. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be severe, with symptoms ranging from anxiety and insomnia to seizures and delirium.
Benzodiazepine Addiction
Addiction to Benzos can cause physiological and mental damage. The danger of overdose increases when benzodiazepines are used with other substances or alcohol.
Addiction to Benzos can put a burden on personal relationships, as well as cause financial and legal issues. Overdose risks are increased by a factor of three for people with alcohol use disorder who simultaneously take benzodiazepines. It is also linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety when used regularly.
Treatment Options for Benzodiazepine Addiction
The first step in treating benzodiazepine addiction in Austin, Texas, is drug detox, which involves slowly tapering the drug dose to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. The next step is drug rehab or (substance use treatment). There, clients find treatment that includes therapy and counseling to address the psychological aspects of addiction and provide recovery support. Individual addiction treatment counseling and family counseling are two commonly used approaches. In most cases, group work—specifically 12 Step Immersion—can make a world of difference.
Benzo Treatment in Austin
It’s good to remember, Benzodiazepines are not the enemy here. They help many people manage their illnesses and struggles and can help bring a good deal of normalcy. That said, they also carry the risk of addiction and abuse.
Get professional assistance for benzodiazepine addiction if you or someone you know is battling addiction. You can verify your insurance coverage in a few minutes to see what treatment is covered. It is possible to get better with the proper care and encouragement.
