Benzodiazepines have a long history of abuse, and despite their medical effectiveness, the drug could cause more harm than good if used improperly.
Fortunately, Valium addiction treatment is readily available for patients who may have fallen off the cliff.
Valium: What Is It?
Valium, also known by its generic name diazepam, is a prescription benzodiazepine medication that was first introduced in 1963.
The sedative is commonly used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
The drug acts by increasing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA, which helps diminish hyperactive brain function to relieve severe stress and anxiety.
Doctors typically prescribed Valium to be taken between one and four times per day, depending on the needs of the patient.
Is Valium Addictive?
It is possible to become physically and psychologically dependent on Valium despite the drug’s effectiveness in treating certain conditions.
This can be particularly true when the sedative is taken for extended periods of time or in a way other than directed by your doctor.
The risk of addiction can also increase for patients who have a history of substance abuse or an addictive personality. Mixing Valium with other substances like alcohol and opioids can also increase the risk of abuse and overdose.
Valium addiction might be difficult to recognize at first if the patient is taking it for medical purposes. People who become addicted to Valium can suffer devastating consequences in their lives.
Overdoses from Benzos are up, and the latest data shows that there were over 12,000 cases in 2020. This is nearly a tenfold increase in deaths since 1999 when only slightly over 1000 deaths were recorded.
To avoid an overdose or a serious addiction issue it’s critical for the people around the addict to be able to recognize the signs and symptoms of addiction and catch them early on.
Signs and Symptoms of Valium Addiction
A person suffering from valium addiction will exhibit certain telltale signs.
Those signs and symptoms include:
- Higher tolerance
- Strong cravings for the drug
- Isolation
- Continued use despite doctor’s instructions or challenges
- Loss of interest in activities
- Ignoring obligations
- Withdrawal symptoms
Those who become dependent on Valium have a negative reaction once the drug is flushed from their bodies. As a result, some people experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Addicts may also struggle to quit on their own due to withdrawal symptoms, resulting in a life-threatening cycle.
If withdrawal symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Valium Addiction Treatment
If you are taking Valium and are concerned about the possibility of addiction, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider or a recovery expert to seek treatment immediately.
A recovery expert or healthcare provider will likely suggest a Valium rehab program as the best way to treat the addiction.
A Valium rehab program typically begins with detox. Detoxification is a critical part of the valium addiction treatment during which medical staff supervises the tapering down of and cleansing of the drug in the system.
Detoxifying withdrawal symptoms could be both challenging and life-threatening, which is why it’s best that addicts take up this vital step under the supervision of a professional.
The next step of a Valium rehab program will be to receive some form of therapy that will allow the addict to gain the necessary tools to maintain a program of recovery. This part of the Valium addiction treatment can vary depending on the condition of the patient and any co-occurring disorders they could be suffering from.
Finally, addicts could also be directed toward a 12-step program or a different after-care program that will help them to maintain their sobriety long after they leave rehab.
How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction
An addiction to Valium can develop if it is used long-term or at a high dosage. It is imperative that you speak with your healthcare professional or recovery expert if you are concerned about becoming addicted to Valium.Our team of recovery experts here at Outpatient LA can help you or your loved ones if you suspect there might be a problem.
Our goal is to treat addiction holistically. Getting sober and staying sober is possible with our premier holistic outpatient services.
Outpatient LA today and ask how our holistic recovery approach can help!
Ask how we can help you with our holistic recovery approach by contacting Outpatient LA today!