Benzodiazepine Addiction
Benzodiazepine, commonly known as “benzos,” are a class of psychoactive drugs used to treat several medical conditions including alcohol dependence, seizures, anxiety disorders, panic, agitation, and insomnia. They are usually taken orally; however, they can also be administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or rectally.
Despite their medical uses, benzos are often abused. There are approximately 15 types of benzodiazepines distributed in the US, and another 20 sold worldwide.Tolerance and addiction develop rapidly. Benzo abuse sends thousands of people to emergency rooms each year.
Signs & Symptoms of Benzo Addiction
Benzodiazepines can have different effects depending on the dosage. In small doses, benzos serve as sedatives. In moderate doses, they counter anxiety. In high doses, they act as hypnotics.
Usually, people abusing benzodiazepines develop a very high tolerance and indulge in extremely high dosages. Though the symptoms of addiction vary common signs include:
- Drowsiness
- Blurred vision
- Poor coordination
- Amnesia
- Hostility
- Irritability
- Disturbing dreams
- Reduced inhibition
- Impaired judgment
- Confusion
- The appearance of dementia
Treatment for Benzodiazepine Addiction, how we can help
Recovery from Benzodiazepine withdrawal is possible with benzo detox treatment under proper medical guidance. Despite the long list of withdrawal effects and the damage created by benzodiazepine abuse, it is possible to recover At AKUA Mind & Body, we provide holistic benzo addiction treatment programs combining the time-tested traditions of East with the scientific approach of West to help our clients.
Our benzo addiction recovery plans are highly individualistic in nature so that all the unique requirements of our clients are addressed, and they can overcome their addiction with relative ease.
Our dedicated staff is always there to help the clients whenever they hit a rough patch. At AKUA, we believe in perfection and strive to give the best possible care to those who seek help
AKUA Mind & Body Treatment Program
AKUA Mind and Body is a full-service treatment program that offers a wide range of “east meets west” treatment modalities for many different populations struggling with benzo addiction and substance use and mental health disorders. We offer both intensive inpatient programs as well as outpatient treatment. AKUA Mind & Body works diligently with each client and their family to ensure that their depressive disorder treatment plan is specifically tailored to their needs, and not just their disorder.
Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms
Benzodiazepines work as a depressant and slows down the brain’s activity. Once someone gets addicted, sudden abstinence can cause seizures and other complications.
Benzo withdrawal is a painful process that requires medical supervision. Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Perceptual distortions
- Paraesthesia, defined as abnormal skin sensations such as tingling, tickling, itching or burning
- Difficult walking
- Anxiety
- Tension
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Sleep disturbance/insomnia
- Psychosis
- Confusion
- Pain
- Headache
- Seizures
- Depression