Signs of Benzo Abuse

Benzos like Valium and Xanax are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in America. These medications have been proven effective in treating seizure disorders, panic attacks, and anxiety. Even when used as prescribed by a trusted doctor, these drugs can become highly addictive, eventually leading to a dangerous addiction. If you or someone in your life is struggling with benzo abuse, reach out to the skilled medical team at New Start Recovery online or call 833.433.0448 today to discuss how our benzo addiction treatment program can help.

What Are Benzos and What Do They Do?

Benzodiazepines are prescription drugs that, when used correctly, will slow down activity in the central nervous system. They are designed to treat various mental health disorders by producing the sensation of relaxation, sedation, and relief. This effectively reduces the symptoms of:

  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizure disorders
  • Muscle spasms
  • Withdrawal during an alcohol detox

The use of benzos is now widespread across the United States. In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 1996 and 2013, the number of adults who filled a benzodiazepine prescription rose by 67% to a staggering 13.5 million. Furthermore, in a study of over 300,000 people who received opioid prescriptions between 2001 and 2013, the percentage also being prescribed benzos rose to 17% in 2013 from just 9% at the start of that 12 year period. It comes as no surprise that the need for professional benzo addiction rehab has risen as well. The study noted that the people using both drugs concurrently were at higher risk of emergency room visits and needing to be admitted to a hospital for a drug-related emergency.

People struggling with benzo abuse are likely familiar with one of these scenarios, unfortunately, and may require a benzo addiction treatment program to get clean. The five most commonly prescribed benzos are:

  • Alprazolam (brand name Xanax)
  • Lorazepam (Ativan)
  • Clonazepam (Klonopin)
  • Diazepam (Valium)
  • Temazepam (Restoril)

The Signs of Benzo Abuse

The statistics around benzo abuse are alarming, but none will make you look into a benzo addiction treatment program more than this one: In 2015, there were nearly 9,000 overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines. This was more than four times as many as in 2002. The majority of these deaths occurred when benzos were used with other drugs like opioids, but benzos pose a danger on their own, even if prescribed to ease pain. Some of the common signs of benzo abuse include:

  • Muscle weakness
  • Muscle pain
  • Loss of coordination
  • Drowsiness
  • Pale skin
  • Bluish lips and fingernails
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Severely altered mental status
  • Loss of consciousness

If you recognize any of these symptoms of benzo abuse, reach out to New Start Recovery to learn how our benzo addiction rehab can help start you on the road to a sober life.

The Common Side Effects of Benzos

There are many side effects that come with using benzos, ranging from mild for short-term usage to overdose if you develop an addiction and do not enter into a benzo addiction treatment program immediately. Some of the short term effects of benzo abuse at low dosages may include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Poor coordination
  • Drowsiness
  • Tiredness
  • Slurred speech
  • Confusion
  • Depression
  • Tremors
  • Dry mouth
  • Difficulty breathing

A higher dosage of benzos may deliver even more dramatic and scary effects, including:

  • Euphoria
  • Extreme drowsiness
  • Slower reflexes
  • Mood swings
  • Erratic behavior

What Happens During Benzo Addiction Rehab?

To remove every trace of the drugs from your system, you will go through a medical detox and be monitored to keep you safe and comfortable through the withdrawal that follows. Then your benzo addiction rehab can begin. You will be taught critical life skills for coping with benzo cravings, attend therapy and learn healthy ways to relax, learn the important role nutrition plays in a benzos addiction treatment program, and slowly begin to rebuild your life in recovery.

Learn More at New Start Recovery

If you or someone you love is suffering from benzo abuse and you are ready to take back control of your life, contact New Start Recovery using our secure online form or call us at 833.433.0448 today.