As reported in a 2018 study, more than one in eight U.S. residents used benzodiazepines in the past year. Not only did these findings show increasing use but also misuse. Research shows that misuse accounts for over 17% of overall use. In this case, misuse means taking benzodiazepines in any way that a doctor did not prescribe.
If you or a loved one suffers from a prescription drug addiction, call us now: 877-717-6237.
Benzodiazepines are medications used to treat conditions like insomnia, seizure disorders, and anxiety. They include but are not limited to:
-Alprazolam (brand names include Xanax and Niravam) -Diazepam (brand name – Valium) -Clonazepam (brand name – Klonopin) -Lorazepam (brand name – Ativan) -Oxazepam (brand name – Serax) -Clorazepate (brand name – Tranxene)
Although all benzodiazepines work similarly, believed to affect your brain chemical known as GABA, they all differ in their potency, how quickly they work, and how long they continue to work for. There are also differences in how long varying benzodiazepines stay in your system, as well as differences in how they build up in your body. Since the medications listed above have different durations of action and different half-lives, some will remain in your body longer than others. For example, this study found that diazepam (Valium) could be detected for 7, clonazepam (Klonopin) for 5 days, and alprazolam (Xanax) for 2.5 days. How quickly a drug leaves your system will also depend on: -Your body fat content -Metabolism -The health of your liver -The dose -The length of time in which you’ve been using
The severity of the withdrawal symptoms depends on the amount and duration of benzodiazepine use. Withdrawal symptoms can be deadly and may need to be managed with medication. -Insomnia -Problems concentrating -Increased anxiety and irritability -Panic attacks -Palpitations -Vomiting and dry heaving -Headaches -Muscle stiffness and pain
Tolerance, dependence, and addiction are terms that are often used interchangeably, even though there are important differences. -Tolerance means that your response to a drug is diminished because of repeated use. This is a physical effect and not necessarily a sign of addiction. -Dependence means that you have developed a physical condition where your body depends on a drug of choice. When you discontinue use, you experience symptoms associated with withdrawal syndrome. The above terms differ from addiction, which is a chronic and relapsing brain disease associated with compulsive drug-seeking behaviors, despite negative consequences. The need to be used because they are overwhelming and uncontrollable.
When seeking treatment, you do not need to worry about confidentiality, particularly at Corner Canyon Health Centers. Not only is all of our clients’ information handled with respect and confidentiality, but we also provide vans with tinted windows for enhanced privacy. Our ultimate goal is to help you achieve long-term sobriety, respecting your life and wishes as you continue to reach your goals.
No two clients are equal. There are many variables that come into play, including the complexity of addiction and your mental health. When you first visit us, we perform a comprehensive assessment. This will provide us with the insight we need to best help you. Some clients will complete a 30-day inpatient program, whereas others opt for a 90-day program. While some individuals need support to overcome their addiction, others need help to address both their addiction and the trauma they experienced in the past. That is why we offer such a wide range of evidence-based treatment methods. This allows us to build a more personalized treatment plan — one that significantly increases your ability to succeed.
Paying for benzodiazepine addiction treatment may be what’s currently holding you back from getting the help you deserve.
At Corner Canyon Health Centers, we offer several financing options. We also accept most insurance plans.
Read more: Paying for Treatment: How to Use Insurance for Mental Health and Addiction Treatment – In Three Simple Steps
Have questions? We’re here to help! Call us today to discuss your options