Valium is an addictive Benzodiazepine with longer-lasting effects than other drugs in its class. The drug is mostly prescribed by doctors for legitimate medical reasons. However, patients may worry that it could cause more harm than it does good.
But does it? Is the drug addictive and dangerous?
Let’s take a look into what Valium is and how it can affect patients.
What Is Valium?
Valium is a sedative that was first introduced in 1963. It’s also known by the name of diazepam.
The long-acting benzodiazepine is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures as well as symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal.
Valium works by diminishing hyperactive brain function to relieve severe stress and anxiety. The drug is usually prescribed to be taken between one and four times per day, depending on your doctor’s recommendation.
Can You Get Addicted to Valium
You can get addicted to Valium if taken in a way different than prescribed by your doctor. Addiction to Valium can progress quickly if the drug is misused.
Over time, it is harder for a Valium abuser’s brain to function normally without the drug, making the addict feel as if they can’t live without it.
Valium addiction is a serious problem that can have a devastating effect on a person’s life. Yet, some people addicted to Valium may not even realize they have a problem.
Taking Valium for longer than four to six weeks can increase the likelihood of becoming addicted to the drug.
Taking more than a doctor prescribed due to perceived tolerance can also lead down a path of addiction. Because Valium is taken by people who need help with stress, these patients might often abuse the drug when life becomes too much to handle, this too can lead to addiction.
But that’s not the only way a user can get hooked on the drug.
Benzos are well known to contribute to polydrug abuse because many addicts tend to take them in combination with other drugs and alcohol to enhance their high.
These combinations can lead to addiction even if Valium is not the addict’s principal drug.
Overdoses from Benzos are up, and the latest data shows that there were over 12,000 cases in 2020. This is nearly a tenfold increase in deaths since 1999 when only slightly over 1000 deaths were recorded.
Signs and Symptoms of Valium Addiction
There are certain telltales that a person will exhibit if they are suffering from valium addiction.
Those signs and symptoms include:
- Higher tolerance
- Strong cravings for the drug
- Isolation
- Continued use despite doctor’s instructions or challenges
- Loss of interest in activities
- Ignoring obligations
- Withdrawal symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Valium Withdrawal
If a user builds dependency on valium their bodies will react negatively once the drug flushes out of their system. This causes withdrawal effects which can in some cases be deadly.
Withdrawal symptoms can also make it difficult for an addict to quit on their own, resulting in a vicious life-threatening cycle.
Immediate medical help should be sought out if withdrawal symptoms arise.
Symptoms of valium withdrawal typically include:
Physical Symptoms
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pains
- Cramps
- Tremors
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
- Seizures
Psychological Symptoms
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Panic attacks
- Anxiety
- Confusion
How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction
90210 Recovery offers Valium treatment for addicts struggling with addiction.
We know how difficult it’s to fight valium addiction, but we have the right tools to help you overcome it.
Our evidence-based approach is designed to uncover the root cause of your Valium addiction and help your loved ones get sober and stay that way.
Contact 902010 Recovery today for a consultation and speak to one of our recovery experts today!
