Are You A Fiend For Benzodiazepine?
Table of Contents
What are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs typically used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They work by depressing the central nervous system, which results in a calming effect. Benzodiazepines are some of the most commonly prescribed medications in the world; however, they can be addictive and have a number of side effects. Benzodiazepines work by binding to GABA receptors in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve transmission, and when benzodiazepines bind to GABA receptors, it results in increased inhibition. This increased inhibition can lead to feelings of calmness and relaxation. Benzodiazepines are typically used for short-term treatment of anxiety or insomnia; however, they can be habit-forming and may cause dependency if used for long periods of time.
Side effects of benzodiazepines can include drowsiness, confusion, impaired motor skills, and memory problems. More serious side effects can include difficulty breathing, coma, and death. Benzodiazepines should be used with caution in people with a history of addiction or mental health disorders. The abuse of benzos has been on the rise in recent years, and the statistics on benzos in 2022 are expected to be alarming. According to a recent study, nearly one-third of people who abuse benzos die from an overdose each year. This is a significant increase from previous years, and indicates that the problem is only getting worse.
There are many different types of benzodiazepines, and they vary in terms of their potency and duration of action. Some of the most common types of benzodiazepines include:
– alprazolam (Xanax)
– diazepam (Valium)
– lorazepam (Ativan)
– clonazepam (Klonopin)
What are signs and symptom's of Benzos Addiction?
The most common symptom of benzo addiction is tolerance: needing higher and higher doses to achieve the desired effect. Other signs include using the drug for non-medical reasons, such as recreation or self-medication; losing interest in other activities; and continuing to use despite negative consequences. Benzo overdoses can be deadly, so if you see any of these signs in yourself or someone else, it’s important to get help immediately. Below are some more Signs & Symptoms vary depending on which form of Benzos you are taking.
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Confusion
- Memory impairment
- Changes in appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Weight gain
- Dry mouth
What are Risk Fators ?
One of the main risks of taking benzodiazepines is that they can be addictive. If they are not taken as prescribed, or if they are taken for longer than recommended, users can develop a tolerance to the medications. This can lead to dependence, and people may start taking larger doses in order to achieve the same effect. Benzodiazepine addiction can be difficult to overcome, and people may need professional help in order to quit taking the medications.
Another risk of taking benzodiazepines is that they can cause drowsiness and impair coordination. This can make it dangerous to drive or operate machinery while on the medications. It is important to avoid alcohol while taking benzodiazepines, as this can increase the risk of accidents or injuries. Some people may also experience side effects such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea when taking benzodiazepines. In rare cases, more serious side effects such as seizures or hallucinations may occur. If you experience any unusual symptoms while taking benzodiazepines, be sure to contact your doctor right away.
Sedative medications do come with risk factors, although these symptoms are not generally lethal, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible as they can become deadly after some time.
- Increased anxiety
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Hand tremors
- Muscle spasms
- Sweating
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Aches and pains
- Hypersensitivity to stimuli (light and touch)
- Abnormal bodily sensations (itching, goosebumps, skin-crawling, etc.)
- Hallucinations
- Visual disturbances
- Delirium
What Are Benzo's Used For?
Below are some of the most common conditions that are decreased with Benzodiazepines.
- Anxiety disorders
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
- Panic disorder
- Nervousness
- Panic disorders
- Seizures
- Sleeplessness
- Alcohol Withdrawal
- Sedation
- Irregular heart rate
- Respiratory depression
Are You or Loved One Addicted?
Please keep in mind that addiction is less likely to occur when all guidelines are followed as given by your Doctor/Pharmacist. Below are some of the symptoms of Benzo Addiction
- The person will experience withdrawal-like symptoms if the drug is not in the person’s symptoms. This can include strong craving for the drug.
- Large quantities of time are used to obtain the drug, to use the drug and then recover from the aftermath.
- Tolerance is built up, therefore a higher dosage of the drug will be needed to get the same effect they did in the beginning.
- A decline in work ethic is prominent, these trickle into their home environment, school, and other places.
- The person is still on the sedative even though their original prescription time has expired.
In Conclusion?
In conclusion, Benzodiazepines, while they are meant to treat physical/mental conditions, can very easily be abused. If you or a loved one are currently struggling with a Benzo addiction or are worried about becoming addicted, reach out to your Doctor, or do not hesitate to reach out to us for more information and helpful resources. We understand that addiction is a difficult situation, but you are not alone. We have a team that is fully equipped and ready to help you. Here is a link that will take you to our safe and secure “Contact Us” page.
