Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed prescription drugs used to treat conditions such as insomnia and anxiety. These drugs are called sedatives or tranquilizers and help to diminish activity in certain parts of the brain and therefore the body as well. While benzodiazepines are considered a safer, more effective way to treat some of conditions associated with chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia, they are still a very addictive class of drugs, very commonly abused among young people because of their accessibility.
Benzodiazepines also referred to as benzos, tranks, and downers, include the following commonly prescribed medications - Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Rohypnol. Just as with any other drug that is being abused, when these are taken in large quantities or over long periods of time, they can lead to addiction, abuse and severe withdrawal symptoms when cut off abruptly.
Symptoms of benzodiazepines
Because benzodiazepines are prescription drugs used to treat and alter certain chemical interactions in the brain, the side effects or symptoms of use can vary from person to person. Most commonly the effects are calming or a release of anxiety and worry as well as helping aid in restless sleeping and insomnia. These drugs can lessen the feeling of emotional crisis or problems and temporarily relieve or lessen feelings until they wear off. Negative side effects of benzodiazepines include problems remembering or retaining information and can also have negative effects on every day activities, physical tasks and memory. In some people benzodiazepines can cause depression, dizziness and confusion.
The beginning of an addiction to benzodiazepines can occur without a person even knowing. People who have been prescribed benzodiazepines often build a tolerance to the substance because of consistent use over time and need more of the medication in order to achieve the same relief for their problems. Many patients begin to take more of the medication than prescribed and find that they are unable to function without them. Other substance abusers that buy the drugs without a prescription and use them for no other purpose than to "get high" also have the possibility of becoming addicted to these pills.
Treatment for benzodiazepine addiction
Treatment for benzodiazepine addiction is available at a number of treatment centers nationwide. The drug rehabilitation process for benzodiazepine starts with a detoxification process in order to clear the mind and body of the effects of the drugs. In some people the withdrawal symptoms are so severe that a detox from benzodiazepines should not be performed without the supervision of a medical professional. Residential or outpatient treatment is suggested for long-term benzodiazepine users so that they can learn effective ways to cope with cravings and relapse temptation.
