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
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
