Benzodiazepine Detox From Bridges of Hope
According to one recent study, nearly 30% of all overdoses that involve opioids also involve benzodiazepines to some capacity. Also commonly referred to as benzos, this is a drug so serious that it’s a major contributor to the 115 Americans who die from overdosing every single day.
Statistics like these help to underline the fact that the benzo detox and treatment process could not be more important, especially in the modern era. We want as many people as possible to be able to rid their lives of horrible drugs like this one, and our innovative benzodiazepine detox process is one of the many ways that we work hard to bring that vision into reality on a daily basis.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms
When individuals suddenly stop using benzodiazepines after consistently using them for an extended amount of time, the brain struggles to adjust, which can cause symptoms of withdrawal. Even though benzo withdrawal symptoms are not typically life-threatening, they can be very uncomfortable. The symptoms, which can vary depending on the type of benzodiazepine an individual has consumed and for how long, can include:
- Agitation
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Depression
- Difficulty maintaining attention
- Difficulty with memory
- Dizziness
- Distorted sense of time
- Extreme drowsiness
- Fainting spells from abrupt blood pressure changes
- Hallucinations
- Insomnia
- Inability to focus on tasks
- Irritability or increased anger
- Lightheadedness Muscle pain or cramps
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe anxiety
- Shaking or tremors
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can also cause seizures. This symptom is a medical emergency and should be immediately treated by trained and certified medical personnel. Individuals should always seek out a medically supervised detox program rather than attempting to detox on their own.
Benzo Detox and Withdrawal Treatment
Most benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms last around a week, but they can last longer for some people. Stopping using benzodiazepines suddenly can be life-threatening because withdrawal symptoms mimic the symptoms of serious medical conditions. Individuals grappling with benzodiazepine dependence and addiction should consult with their doctor or healthcare provider before stopping so they can create a gradual tapering schedule. As individuals taper off benzos, their brains will gradually relearn how to function without the drugs.
Replacement medications can also help stabilize the brain and relieve symptoms of withdrawal. Some of the most common benzodiazepine replacement medications include:
- Lorazepam, a sedative drug that helps treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures
- Oxazepam, which helps treat insomnia, insomnia, and nausea and vomiting
- Diazepam, a treatment that helps relieve anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures
In some cases, benzodiazepines can cause psychiatric complications that require other benzodiazepines, antidepressants, or antipsychotics.
Whether individuals are dealing with a benzodiazepine dependence or addiction, trying to detox on their own can be extremely dangerous. That’s why everyone looking to reduce their consumption of these drugs should do so at a professional treatment program that treats benzodiazepine addiction.
Our Treatment Center Approach
In addition to focusing on highly scientific, evidence-based practices for benzo detox, our licensed professionals also emphasize healthy leisure activities to promote improved general health as well. This allows us to play an invaluable role in our patients’ lives long after the benzo detox process has ended. We want to treat not only their body but also their mind and their spiritual core, getting them on the right path in a way that makes sure they’ll stay there for as long as possible.
Contact Bridges of Hope Treatment Center Today
If you or a loved one are suffering from benzodiazepine addiction, it’s important for you to know that this is one road you do not have to travel alone. To find out more information about the wide range of different benzodiazepine detox options that are available, or to discuss your situation with someone in a little more detail, please don’t delay – contact Bridges of Hope today.