Benzodiazepines

Valium, Xanax, Halcion, and Librium are just some samples of medications that belong to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. With its ability to slow down brain functions, benzodiazepines are usually prescribed for treating anxiety, stress, panic attacks and sleeping problems. When used recreationally, benzodiazepines are able to trigger the reward center of the brain, which in relation to substance abuse means that these drugs have a high potential for abuse.

Chemical dependency on benzodiazepines is often marked by physical tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, taking larger doses than prescribed and continued use despite negative consequences. Incidentally, this definition of dependence is the same for heroin, cocaine and any other street drug, which means that addiction to benzodiazepine, manifests the same effects often seen in a typical addiction cases. As symptoms progress, body, mind, and spirit are affected, requiring comprehensive treatment that addresses all aspects of the addiction.

Physical Tolerance

People who become addicted to benzodiazepines could have gotten their start from receiving prescription for an ailment. However, as their bodies adapt to the prescribed dosage, they may feel the need to take more than the prescribed amount to experience the same effects. Physical tolerance happens when there’s a feeling that a drug at prescribed doses stops working for the individual. He or she may be tempted to take a higher dose in the belief that this will augment the benefits reaped from said drug.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Early warning signs of dependence include withdrawal symptoms when the drug is ceased or reduced. Part of these withdrawal symptoms is an increase in anxiety, which can lead to seizures and other complications. Though not life threatening, these symptoms are troublesome enough to make it difficult if not impossible to quit without the supervision of a doctor or a medical professional.

Negative Consequences

If your dependence on benzodiazepines has been causing problems in your relationships and affecting your spouse, children, and loved ones negatively, Scripts can help. We have created a very exclusive treatment facility dedicated to helping those suffering from dependence on prescription drugs. With our highly competent doctors and counselors, we develop an individualized treatment plan to address the behaviors and thinking patterns associated with the abuse of prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines. We are waiting to hear from you and look forward to answering your questions. Please give us a call right now.