Benzodiazepines: Uses, Side-effects, & Treatment Options for Dependency

Benzodiazepines, colloquially known as “benzos,” are depressants. They slow down brain activity, and for this reason, they are used to anxiety and other similar conditions. While benzodiazepines have their medical uses, they can also lead to dependence.

At the NuView Treatment Center, we provide personalized and comprehensive treatment plans for our clients suffering from benzodiazepine dependence, focusing on therapy, counseling, and lasting recovery to regain control of their lives.

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are depressants. They are also known as benzos, and some familiar brand names are Valium and Xanax. Some familiar street names are roofies, downers, vallies, and xannies. Benzodiazepines slow down brain activity, causing muscle relaxation and sedation. This is why they have their medical uses. They are used to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia. On the negative side, benzodiazepines are also a very common date rape drug, as they dull the senses and make it difficult for a person to restrict any sexual advances.

There is also a high risk of dependence that comes with benzodiazepines. Hence, they are considered to be controlled substances in many countries, including the US. They are only available under prescription. Otherwise, it is illegal to get them.

What Are The Side Effects of Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines side effects can be immediate and long-term. Some of the immediate side effects are:

• Drowsiness and lightheadedness
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Muscle weakness
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Constipation

Some of the long-term benzodiazepines side effects are:

• Lowered focus
• Feeling slow
• Feeling distant from emotions
• Irritability and frustration
• Memory problems
• Weight problems

As benzodiazepines can lead to dependence, there is also the risk of withdrawal symptoms. The highly unpleasant feelings when one stops taking benzodiazepines. Therefore, it is very crucial that benzodiazepines are only taken as per the doctor’s prescription and instructions. In case of any of these side effects, the doctor must be contacted immediately.

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What Are The Signs of Benzodiazepine Dependency and Abuse?

Someone who might be suffering from benzodiazepine dependence and abuse can be experiencing the following:

• Unsteadiness
• Drowsiness
• Fainting
• Muscle weakness
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Difficulty in concentrating and coordinating
• Impaired judgment
• Memory problems
• Mood swings
• Emotional dysregulation and detachment
• Irritability and frustration
• Hostility

Benzodiazepine dependence and abuse is a very real threat. It can lead to benzodiazepine addiction and other extreme circumstances, even death. Therefore, if anyone is experiencing any of the aforementioned signs or symptoms, it is imperative to contact the doctor immediately or call emergency services, like 9-1-1

What Are Nonbenzodiazepines?

Nonbenzodiazepines are depressants that have similar effects as benzodiazepines but are chemically different. They are also used in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia like benzodiazepines are.

However, with nonbenzodiazepines, the risk of dependence is lower. It also has fewer reports of abuse and interactions with other medications. In fact, nonbenzodiazepines are more commonly prescribed than benzodiazepines, especially for sleep. Eszopiclone, zaleplon, and zolpidem are some of the most common examples of nonbenzodiazepines.

What Are Uses of Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are prescribed in the treatment of:

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Bipolar disorder
• Insomnia
• Sleep disorders
• Epilepsy
• Tic disorder

They are only available legally under prescription. As there is a high risk of benzodiazepine misuse, it must always be taken as per the doctor’s instructions and supervision. In fact, it has been observed that if taken as per prescription, there are very low chances of benzodiazepine dependence or benzodiazepine addiction.

Benzodiazepine Abuse

Benzodiazepine abuse has to do with its misuse and availability. People between the ages of 18 and 25 are at a high risk of benzodiazepine abuse, with an estimated 2.4% misusing the drug. It has a calming effect on the mind and body, which makes it a highly addictive substance. Moreover, with benzodiazepine, the tolerance builds up over a period of time with the body needing more and more of the drug to experience the same effects. This leads to dependence and abuse. If the benzodiazepine dosage is cut off, it leads to withdrawal symptoms which can even be life-threatening.

Benzodiazepine misuse can be intentional and even sometimes an accidental overdose. It can be extremely dangerous and can even lead to death. However, very rarely does this happen on its own. When taken with alcohol or other opioids, this is a very real possibility. In fact, in the majority of benzodiazepine-related deaths, the use of an opioid was also found. Conversely, in 14% of opioid-related deaths, the use of benzodiazepine was also found.

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Benzodiazepine Overdose

Benzodiazepine overdose takes place when the drug is consumed in larger quantities than prescribed or is the general practice. Some symptoms of benzodiazepine overdose are:

• General weakness
• Sleepiness
• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Blurred vision
• Slurred speech
• Poor coordination
• Breathing troubles
• Fainting
• Coma

If anybody is showing these symptoms, then it is better to contact the doctor and emergency services immediately. In the US, calling 9-1-1 is also very helpful.

Benzodiazepine overdose requires immediate attention and treatment. Usually, in these cases, the person will be taken to the emergency room where the emergency team will perform certain tests and screenings like blood tests, urine tests, EKG, and X-Rays.

If benzodiazepine was ingested recently, then gastric lavage will be used to flush it out of the system. Activated charcoal is administered every few hours to prevent absorption. In severe cases, an antidote called flumazenil or Romazicon is administered. Usually, this leads to withdrawal and seizures and frequent doses may also be needed.

If benzodiazepine overdose resulted from intentional misuse and if there is a threat of self-harm or other self-destructive behaviors, then the person can also be referred to a psychiatrist and psychologist for further interventions and treatment.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Benzodiazepine withdrawal occurs when the drug is cut off. If benzodiazepine is taken over a period of time, the body begins to depend on benzodiazepine. When it does not receive its regular dosage, withdrawal symptoms become common. Typically, benzodiazepine withdrawal gives rise to the following symptoms:

• Irritability
• Agitation
• Restlessness
• Anxiety
• Shaking
• Sweating
• Hand tremors
• Panic attacks
• Memory difficulties
• Coordination problems
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Sleep problems
• Nightmares

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can lead to physical and mental health challenges, and even lead to the development of post-acute withdrawal syndrome. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be managed with treatment involving psychotherapy and medication

Treatment Options for Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzodiazepine is a highly addictive substance, hence it leads to benzodiazepine dependence and the risk of benzodiazepine addiction is a very real possibility.

The treatment options for benzodiazepine are first, safe and supervised medical detox. The drug is reduced gradually and under medical supervision. This helps in controlling withdrawal symptoms and minimizing other dangers.

After detox, interventions like individual therapy and group sessions become important, as they help identify the underlying reasons and behaviors that lead to benzodiazepine misuse. Therapies also provide healthy coping mechanisms which go a long way in preventing relapse and leading a life of sobriety. Common therapies used are:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – Identifies and challenges maladaptive thinking, emotional, and behavioral patterns to understand triggers, high-risk conditions, and prevent relapse.
• Contingency Management – Uses reinforcements to reward desirable behaviors, like staying sober.
• Motivational Enhancement Therapy – Creates internal motivation to lead to positive changes like sober living and also seeks to reduce ambivalence to these changes.

Joining informal peer groups like 12-step recovery programs is also essential in providing ongoing care, support, and lasting recovery.

Start Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Our dedicated professional staff is here to design a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs, guiding you or your loved one on the journey to lasting recovery.

(323) 307-7997

Frequently Asked Questions

Are benzodiazepines sleeping pills?

Yes, short-acting benzodiazepines are sleeping pills as they are used to promote sleep.

What is a benzodiazepine used for?

Benzodiazepine is used in the treatment of conditions like anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, sleep disorders, epilepsy, and tic disorder.

Is benzodiazepine an antidepressant?

No, benzodiazepines are not antidepressants. However, they can be used in combination with antidepressants to treat disorders like anxiety disorders.