Benzodiazepine addiction most often begins with a legitimate prescription to treat problems of anxiety, insomnia, or other conditions. The tolerances that are developed lead to taking higher doses over time because these agents lose the effects for which they are first prescribed. This can quickly spiral into dependence and addiction, impacting every aspect of life. We understand the struggles one faces with benzo addiction here at We Level Up Lake Worth, and we are here to help. Our expert, caring team provides unparalleled support and care throughout the entire benzo detox process, guiding you into recovery with highly individualized treatment plans and a holistic orientation. With our help, you can regain control and start building a healthier, happier future.
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What is Benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepines are a class of medication used in treating several conditions; insomnia, anxiety, sleep disorders, and even alcohol withdrawal are some among many. Benzos work by acting on the GABA receptors in the brain, which helps to produce a calming effect. This effect can be beneficial in managing symptoms of stress and anxiety. But it should be kept in mind that even with short-term use, benzos can result in dependency.
Some people may develop a dependency within just one month of regular use. The problem is that the brain quickly becomes used to the drug’s calming effects, at times needing more quantity to have the same effect, and this is what leads to physical and psychological dependence.
Types of Benzodiazepines
There are many different benzodiazepines on the market. Doctors may prescribe one over the other for various reasons. Perhaps their patients have seen more success for one over the other, or the formulation of a certain benzo is known to better meet the needs of a particular client. Here is a list of the different types of benzodiazepines with their generic and brand names:
- Alprazolam (Xanax, Xanax XR)
- Clobazam (Onfi)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Diazepam (Valium, Diastat Acudial, Diastat)
- Estazolam (Prosom – discontinued brand in the US)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Oxazepam (Serax – discontinued brand in the US)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
Benzodiazepine Side Effects
Short-term side effects of benzodiazepines include:
- Sleepiness: Feeling very tired or weak.
- Confusion: Difficulty in thinking clearly or focusing.
- Dizziness: Sensation of spinning or losing balance.
- Trembling: Involuntary quivering or shaking of the body.
- Defective coordination: Physical movements and coordination become complex.
- Visual changes: Blurred or double vision.
- Grogginess: The feeling of being slowed.
- Depressed mood: Feeling sad, low, or down in the dumps.
- Headache: It’s a pain in the head or discomfort.
Long-term use of benzodiazepines may lead to the development of more serious, chronic side effects like:
- Possible dementia: Related to increased potential for cognitive/memory decline.
- Physical dependence: The body gets used to the drug and cannot do without it.
- Overdose: Potential symptoms are life-threatening, especially when combined with other substances.
Effects of Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms may occur in case of abrupt cessation of benzodiazepines:
- Insomnia: The inability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
- Depression: Persistent sadness or hopelessness.
- Sweating: Extreme perspiration without the control of physical effort.
- Tremors: Automatic movement of any part of the body or shaking of hands.
- Muscle cramps: Painful and involuntary muscle contractions.
- Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
To stay safe, you will need appropriate care from benzo detox centers in Florida. Contact We Level Up Lake Worth Fl today and get the support you need.
Benzodiazepine Overdose
How prevalent is Benzo misuse in the US? 30.6 million adults (12.6%) reported having used benzodiazepines, with 25.3 million (10.4%) using them as prescribed and 5.3 million (2.2%) misusing them. Misuse accounted for 17.2% of all use.
The greatest risk of using benzodiazepines and a reason to get into a Benzo addiction treatment program is that of potentially overdosing. With a propensity for developing a tolerance, the longer someone takes benzodiazepines, the greater dosage they will likely need to take to achieve the desired effect, and the greater the risk of overdosing. As a sedative, benzos causes breathing to slow. In turn, less oxygen is directed through the lungs to the brain and the rest of the body. When a dose too great is taken, breathing slows to the point of being fatal.
Mixing Benzos and Other Sedatives
The risk of overdosing on benzodiazepines goes up significantly when it is taken with certain other substances. Specifically, mixing benzos with other forms of sedatives can be deadly. Substances such as alcohol and opioids also slow the person’s breathing. When these substances are taken together, they are dangerous even in smaller dosages that normally.
Benzo Detox and Withdrawal
Benzod detox can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. However, with proper care from one of the accredited drug rehab centers in Florida, the risk of these symptoms can be reduced, . This typically involves gradually reducing the dosage of the drug rather than stopping abruptly. The time needed to taper off depends on factors such as the individual’s biology, the dosage they have been taking, and how often they have been using the drug.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The symptoms of benzo withdrawal can vary depending on how the benzo detox process is managed. In a professional detox center, where the individual is gradually weaned off benzodiazepines, withdrawal symptoms can occur but are usually less severe. These symptoms may include:
- Sleepiness: Feeling unusually tired or drowsy.
- Depression: Experiencing feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
- Sweating and chills: Alternating between feeling excessively warm and cold.
In an unmanaged situation, where benzodiazepine use is stopped suddenly (often referred to as “cold turkey”), withdrawal can become much more severe and potentially dangerous. Symptoms may include:
- Severe anxiety: Intense feelings of worry or panic.
- Tremors: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling.
- Seizures: Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain.
Rebound Symptoms
In addition to withdrawal symptoms, benzo detox can also cause rebound symptoms. These are the return of symptoms that may have been present before taking the medication, which may become more intense for a few days. Rebound symptoms can include:
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Anxiety: Heightened feelings of nervousness or worry.
- Stress: Increased feelings of tension or unease.
As the body adjusts during the benzo detox process, these symptoms usually subside or lessen.
Withdrawal Timelines
The timeline for benzo withdrawal can vary from person to person, much like detoxing from other prescription drugs. For those using short-acting benzodiazepines, withdrawal symptoms may start within 6 to 8 hours after the last dose. For longer-acting benzodiazepines, symptoms might not appear until 24 to 48 hours later. Withdrawal symptoms typically last about four days, while rebound symptoms may last about 2 to 3 days from when they begin.
A Holistic Approach to Benzo Addiction Treatment
Benzodiazepine addiction can have significant social and psychological effects on those who struggle with it. For some individuals, these effects are the most challenging aspect of their addiction, while for others, the physical symptoms are more frightening. Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly without tapering off can lead to severe symptoms, including tremors, seizures, and even death. Therefore, professional treatment at a medical detox facility is crucial.
At We Level Up, we emphasize the importance of professional treatment and take a holistic approach to benzo addiction recovery. Once the benzo detox process has been safely completed, we develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to each person’s needs. This plan helps individuals learn skills and tools to stay off benzodiazepines and lead healthier lives.
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to Ativan, Valium, or any other form of benzodiazepine, get them the help they need and deserve. Contact our team at Level Up Lake Worth Fl and join our Florida benzo detox program today!
Benefits of Choosing We Level Up Lake Worth Fl
Our benzo detox Florida center team has received high-level training and experience to deal with benzodiazepine addiction. We have put together a team of medical experts, therapists, and counselors who are determined to provide the best care possible, knowing the complexities of addiction. Expertise on staff ensures that every individual is specifically attended to and receives an effective treatment strategy.
At our drug detox Florida center, we believe everybody has a unique path to recovery. We craft elaborate treatment plans to suit individual needs and prevailing circumstances. Our approach guarantees the right combination of treatments and support to achieve a healthy body, mind, and soul. Focused on the individual, a strong foundation is built toward lasting recovery. Our comfortable facilities provide a comfortable and safe environment for benzo detox and treatment.
We offer modern amenities and resources that have been designed to sustain healing and well-being. Our holistic approach integrates medical care, therapeutic activities, and wellness practices with the person as a whole. This very complete approach at our benzo detox center in Florida will focus on the main causes of addiction and overall health promotion through the development of skills and resilience in maintaining long-term sobriety.
Admission Process
At We Level Up, we make the admission process straightforward and supportive. Here’s a step-by-step list:
- Reach out via phone, email, or our website. Our admissions team is ready to answer your questions and provide information about benzo detox.
- We conduct an assessment to understand your medical history and substance use. Gather essential information to tailor your treatment plan.
- We will develop a treatment plan based on the assessment. We will customize the benzo detox plan to address your specific needs and goals.
- Our team guides you through orientation upon admission. They Introduce you to our facility, staff, and available resources.
- You start your personalized benzo detox and receive ongoing support from our experienced professionals.
Insurance Options for Our Florida Benzo Detox
We have a variety of insurance plans to make treatment accessible for everyone. We are one of the rehabs in Florida that accept Blue Cross Blue Shield. Our team is here to help you understand your options and maximize your benefits.
Our team assists with insurance verification to confirm coverage. We help you understand your benefits and how they apply to treatment costs. Besides being one of the rehabs in Florida that accept Cigna, we offer flexible payment plans and financial support to ensure you receive the care you need.
Our admissions team can guide you through available options. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your recovery.
Join Our Benzo Detox and Improve Your Life Today
Level Up Lake Worth has a team of trained and experienced professionals who specialize in benzo detox protocols and procedures. Our facilities are fully equipped to provide top-quality care to everyone seeking help with benzodiazepine dependence or addiction. Life gets better after benzo detox. You will notice improvements in your mood, stronger relationships, and a renewed sense of purpose. Being free from benzodiazepine dependence opens the door to a healthier, happier future. You can rediscover your interests and passions and feel empowered to chase your goals. Start your recovery today. Contact our center to learn more, and let us help you take the first step toward a brighter, more fulfilling life.
Source:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30554562/
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