Getting Evidence Based Support to Stop Using Benzos
Benzos have been around since the early 1960s as prescription medications used to treat conditions such as anxiety disorders, panic attacks, seizures, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, muscle spasms, and sleeping problems (insomnia). Today they’re still prescribed frequently for those same ailments but can also be found recreationally on the street or obtained without a doctor’s authorization.
It’s estimated that more than 10 million Americans 12 years old and older misused benzodiazepines last year. While some people use them occasionally to feel relaxed, others may become addicted to them over time. Some abusers even resort to stealing their prescriptions from pharmacies. Once physical dependence takes hold, it is extremely difficult to detox from benzos, as the withdrawals can potentially be deadly.
Prescription Misuse and Benzodiazepines
This doesn’t mean all who try benzos will develop a substance use disorder – many patients receive prescriptions from their doctors without abusing them. However, the risk of physical and mental dependence is prevalent regardless of whether abuse is the intention.
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There are several things that put individuals at greater risk for developing an unhealthy relationship with benzos. Here we’ll look at what makes up dependence – the main components necessary to diagnose benzodiazepine abuse successfully.
We’ll discuss how it affects your health and overall well-being, identify warning signs of abuse, and learn about effective treatments.
What Is Benzodiazepine Abuse?
The term benzodiazepine refers to any medication containing this group of compounds, which include diazepam (brand names Valium, Halcion), lorazepam (Ativan), alprazolam (Xanax), and flunitrazepam (Rohypnol). These medicines were developed during the research phase to find better and safer alternatives to barbiturates, and quaaludes – another group of commonly known tranquilizers.
They work quickly, typically within 30 minutes, and produce calming effects similar to alcohol intoxication. They affect chemicals called neurotransmitters in the brain. The most important neurotransmitter involved is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which serves as the body’s natural relaxant.