Detoxing from any addictive substance is always a hard process, but detoxing from benzodiazepines is a particularly tough and dangerous process. Detoxing is usually the first step in an individual’s recovery from an addiction. It involves completely removing the substance from the individual’s system through benzo detox.
The end result is to completely isolate addicted individuals from the substance they abuse and to rid their bodies of all traces of the substance. For people who have hardcore addictions, they can experience severe forms of withdrawal. The symptoms can include nausea, headaches, and even hallucinations. Detox should always occur under the supervision of a medical professional. The detox process is even more dangerous when the individual is suffering from a benzo addiction. Call us today at 424.235.2009 for more information about our drug detox program.
What Are Benzodiazepines?
First available in 1960, benzodiazepine is a drug that is considered safe when used in proper dosages. It is a psychoactive drug that is for use mostly on people who suffer from anxiety or panic disorders. One of the most commonly known versions of benzodiazepines is valium.
Because of the quick onset of benzodiazepines, they have also proven useful to remedy insomnia and mood disorders. Unfortunately, they are also a drug that people commonly abuse. Even worse, they often misuse it in conjunction with other drugs. Short-term usage of benzodiazepines is considered very safe, but long-term usage is discouraged because of the onset of dangerous side-effects that may occur.
What Are The Dangers Of Benzodiazepines?
Long-term use is controversial, because there are a myriad of negative physical and psychological changes that can happen, such as:
- Agoraphobia
- Social phobia
- Onset of depression
- Altered perception of self
Because of the insidious effects that long-term usage of benzodiazepines has, it should only for use short-term and under the supervision of a medical professional. Unfortunately, though, many people who take benzodiazepines do so for panic disorders, and abusing the drug is quite frequent. This is especially dangerous, because detoxing from benzodiazepines has a reputation for being a particularly difficult process.
Benzo Detox
When someone becomes addicted to benzodiazepines, he should immediately start a detox from the drug. The sooner he does, the better chance he has of detoxing from benzodiazepines with the least amount of withdrawal symptoms. The withdrawal symptoms are so extreme they are even known as benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. These are a group of symptoms that commonly occur when someone is trying to detox from the drug. These can be very dangerous and potentially long-term, and include:
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Suicidal tendencies
- Panic attacks
These symptoms don’t happen to everyone who is trying to detox from benzodiazepines, but seem to occur most commonly with people who had long-term hardcore usage. This is usually defined as someone who used the drug daily for three months or longer. Due to the dangers of detox, addicts should be gradually weaned off the drug with a taper strategy.
These strategies can be individualized for each patient, depending on the severity of their issues. Mainly during withdrawal the addict wants to avoid prolonged withdrawal symptoms like seizures. By creating a taper strategy where the addict slowly detoxes from the drug, it decreases the severity of the withdrawal symptoms. And, like always, the detox should always happen under the supervision of a medical professional.
Withdrawal From Benzos
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines has been noted to be more dangerous than withdrawal from opiates. For this reason, people who have been prescribed benzodiazepines for an anxiety disorder, need to be particularly vigilant about not becoming addicted to the drug.
The long-term dangers of benzodiazepines, particularly during detox, can be life-threatening. But taper strategies and seeking the support of a benzodiazepine support group can help make the detox process easier.
Benzo Detox From Seasons in Malibu
Seasons in Malibu is a top-tier rehab facility for those suffering from addiction to benzodiazepines. Our experienced staff provides personalized care that caters to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Our benzo detox program includes both medical and therapeutic components, providing comprehensive support throughout the process.
To help ensure long-term success, our team of experts takes a holistic approach to the recovery process, addressing both physical and psychological issues. We provide our clients with the education and resources needed to move forward in their lives without benzodiazepines. With Seasons in Malibu, you can begin your journey toward lasting sobriety today.
Get the Help You Need Today
At Seasons in Malibu, we are here to provide the best possible care for our clients. We’re committed to helping each individual build a strong foundation for lasting recovery and sobriety. If you or someone you know is in need of Benzo detox assistance, contact us today at 424.235.2009 or reach out online to learn more about how we can help. Our caring and experienced team is ready to take your call.