The brand name benzodiazepines Valium and Xanax are some of the most commonly prescribed drugs in America today. These medications have been proven effective in treating seizure disorders, panic attacks, and anxiety. Still, even when used as prescribed by a trusted medical professional, these benzos can become highly addictive. Knowing how to spot the signs of benzo addiction is crucial if you or someone in your life has been prescribed these drugs. There’s no need to get lost in a web search for “benzo addiction near me.” Instead, simply reach out to the compassionate team at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center online or call 781.587.3636 today to find out how we can help you should benzo addiction signs become visible.
What Are Benzos and What Do They Do?
Benzodiazepines are prescription drugs that, when used as directed by a doctor, will effectively slow down central nervous system activity. The drugs are designed to treat a variety of mental health disorders by producing sensations of sedation, relief, and relaxation and reducing the symptoms of:
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Seizure disorders
- Muscle spasms
- Substance withdrawal during detox
Benzos are now widely used across the country. According to a 2020 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services National Health Statistics Report, “the number of ambulatory visits with one or more prescriptions for benzos increased from 27.6 million in 2003 to 62.6 million in 2015, while overdose deaths involving benzos increased from 0.58 per 100,000 adults in 1996 to 3.07 in 2010.” Furthermore, in a study of over 300,000 people who received opioid prescriptions between 2001 and 2013, the percentage also being prescribed benzos rose to 17% in 2013 from just 9% at the start of those 12 years. It should come as no surprise then that looking out for the signs of benzo addiction is essential, and the need for professional benzo addiction rehab has risen exponentially. Unfortunately, people struggling with benzo abuse are likely familiar with one of these scenarios and may require a benzo addiction treatment program to get clean. Often, before that can happen, someone they love would have seen benzo addiction signs.
The five most commonly prescribed benzos are:
- Alprazolam (brand name Xanax)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
Regardless of the specific benzo prescribed, individuals taking these drugs can begin to develop an addiction. If you or someone in your life is taking a benzo, it’s important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of benzo addiction so that you can seek help if necessary.
The Signs of Benzo Addiction
Being on the lookout for the signs of benzo addiction can literally save a life.
Some of the common benzo addiction signs include:
- Muscle weakness and pain
- Drowsiness and a loss of coordination
- Pale skin, bluish lips, and fingernails
- Nausea and vomiting
- Severely altered mental status
- Loss of consciousness
If you recognize any of these signs of benzo addiction in yourself or in those you care about, reach out at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center to learn how our experienced, compassionate team of addiction recovery professionals can help.
The Side Effects of Benzo Abuse
There are numerous side effects that come with using and abusing benzos, ranging from mild to discomfort to overdosing if you develop an addiction. Some of the short-term effects of benzo abuse at low dosages may include:
- Tiredness
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Depression
- Tremors
- Dry mouth
- Difficulty breathing
Higher dosages could bring about more dramatic signs of benzo addiction, including:
- Euphoria
- Extreme drowsiness
- Slower reflexes
- Mood swings
- Erratic behavior
The key to avoiding these dangers is to recognize the signs of benzo addiction and seek treatment before it’s too late.
Learn More at Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center
If you or someone you love is abusing prescription pain medication, contact Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center today at 781.587.3636. Discover how our friendly staff can help you to take back control of your life. Aftermath Addiction Treatment Center is here to help you every step of the way, from diagnosis and detoxification all the way through aftercare services. With our specialized and individualized treatment plans, we can help you fight benzo addiction and reclaim your life.
