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A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment. Addiction to any med is nasty, but benzodiazepines addiction is one of the worst. My first addiction was to Artane. It’s not a benzodiazepine, but for me, it had the same effect. It made me happy, self-confident, just the belief that I could accomplish anything. Then it turned against me after about a couple of years.

Therefore, I started trembling, withdrawing inside myself, and became a recluse. I thought my life was ending. I spent years like that. Hence, I would take it on and off, hoping I wouldn’t go down the wrong side of the path again, but I did.

Then something happened, I just quit taking it. I’d gotten fed up riding the rollercoaster. By far, it wasn’t easy. The funny thing is now I’m taking 1 mg for the Parkinson’s movements, and I have no problems taking it. But then, along came Valium…

Valium and Klonopin

Benzo help! That was me. So, I became addicted to Valium, which is a benzo. I kept taking more and more just to get that high to escape the anxiety. Then, my psychiatrist abruptly took me off of that. A few years later, she put me on Klonopin, which is another benzo.

I don’t know why she put me on the Klonopin a few years after taking Valium, when I had problems with the Valium. Nonetheless, I became addicted to Klonopin. Do you see a pattern arising. I don’t know why my doctor didn’t see it till later.

Then again, she abruptly took me off the Klonopin. Needless to say, I don’t have her as my psychiatrist anymore. She would never listen to anything I would have to say anyway. Now my GP is handling my meds.

My anxiety was out of control. I knew that I would need something strong, like a benzodiazepine, but not become addicted to it. It’s the only med that worked for my anxiety. So, I decided to change my mindset. I made a promise to myself that I was never going to get addicted to another med. I wasn’t looking for that “high” anymore, I just needed help for the anxiety. And that’s what put me on the other side of the fence.

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What are Benzodiazepines?

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment. Overall, benzodiazepines are a type of medication that works by calming the central nervous system. They’re often used to help with anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and even to promote relaxation or sleep. By slowing down brain and nervous system activity, these meds are effective for treating conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and epilepsy.

Benzodiazepines can cause a range of side effects, including:

Drowsiness and dizziness
Confusion
Impaired coordination, which increases the risk of falls and accidents
Depression and increased anxiety
Headaches
Low blood pressure
Digestive disturbances
Rashes and sight problems

Why Are They So Addictive?

Benzodiazepines can be addictive because they change brain chemistry by boosting the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This creates a calming effect, which can feel rewarding and reinforcing. Over time, the brain gets used to having benzodiazepines around, leading to physical dependence. If the drug is reduced or stopped, withdrawal symptoms can kick in, making the cycle of use even harder to break.

Least Addictive Benzodiazepine

To determine the least addictive benzodiazepine, it’s important to consider factors like the drug’s half-life, potency, and how it interacts with the brain. Generally, benzodiazepines with a longer half-life and lower potency are considered less addictive.

Medications like diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin) are often mentioned as having a lower potential for addiction compared to shorter-acting benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax) or lorazepam (Ativan). However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice, as addiction potential can vary based on individual circumstances.

Most Addictive Benzodiazepine

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment and which ones are the most abused. Benzodiazepines with a short half-life and high potency tend to be the most addictive. They kick in fast and wear off just as quickly, which can lead to intense cravings and repeated use. Alprazolam (Xanax) is a good example—it works quickly and doesn’t last long, making it harder to stop without withdrawal symptoms.

Lorazepam (Ativan) is another one that’s highly addictive, as its strong sedative effects can be tough to resist. These traits make dependence more likely, especially with long-term use. Always talk to your healthcare provider to understand the risks and manage your medications safely.

Benzo Tolerance Symptoms

I want to make sure you have a good list of the symptoms of benzo tolerance. So, typically, these characterize benzodiazepine withdrawal:

sleep disturbance
irritability
increased tension and anxiety
depression
panic attacks
hand tremor
shaking
sweating
difficulty with concentration
memory problems
dry mouth
nausea and vomiting
diarrhea
loss of appetite and weight loss
burning sensations and pain in the upper spine
palpitations
headache
nightmares
tinnitus
muscular pain and stiffness

More serious symptoms may also occur, such as depersonalization, restless legs syndrome, seizures, and suicidal ideation.

Benzodiazepine Abuse Treatment

Detox From Prescription Drugs

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment. Detoxing from prescription drugs is an important first step in overcoming dependence. It’s all about safely clearing the substances from your system, often through a gradual reduction in use, called tapering, under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

This minimizes withdrawal symptoms and manages risks. Medical supervision is key to staying safe and supported during this phase. Detox is just the first step in recovery, which also includes therapy, education, and healthier coping skills as part of a full treatment plan.

Medicine for Withdrawals

Managing withdrawal symptoms from benzodiazepines often involves the use of medications to ease the process and reduce risks. Diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin) are commonly prescribed during tapering. Their longer half-lives provide a more gradual decrease in the drug’s levels, helping minimize withdrawal effects.

Additionally, antidepressants may be used for mood stabilization, while beta-blockers can address physical symptoms like heart palpitations or tremors. Medical supervision is essential throughout this process to tailor the treatment plan to your specific needs, ensuring a safer and more effective withdrawal.

Vivitrol and Benzos

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment. Vivitrol is a medication commonly used to treat alcohol and opioid addiction. It works by blocking the effects of opioids in the brain and helping reduce cravings. While Vivitrol isn’t specifically meant for benzodiazepine dependence, it’s important to be aware of potential interactions if benzodiazepines are prescribed simultaneously.

Since both affect the central nervous system, using them together can increase the risk of side effects like sedation or trouble breathing. That’s why it’s crucial to work closely with your healthcare provider to ensure that these medications are used safely and effectively.

Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation from benzodiazepines, often referred to as “benzos,” involves a structured treatment process to help individuals recover from addiction or dependence on these medications. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions, but they can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms if used long-term or inappropriately.

The rehabilitation process typically includes:

Medical Detoxification

This is the first step, where the body is safely cleared of the drug under medical supervision. Detox can involve gradually tapering the dose to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Therapy and Counseling

Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), are used to address the psychological aspects of addiction and help individuals develop coping strategies. These therapies focus on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors, as well as developing healthy coping mechanisms.

This type of therapy can be beneficial for those struggling with substance abuse disorders, as it helps them understand the underlying causes of their addiction and teaches them how to manage triggers and cravings. Additionally, counseling is often a crucial component of addiction treatment. It provides individuals with a safe and supportive environment to explore their emotions, thoughts, and behaviors related to their addiction.

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Support Groups

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment through support groups. Participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous can provide ongoing support and encouragement from others who have experienced similar challenges. These meetings often involve sharing personal experiences, learning coping strategies, and finding a sense of community with others in recovery. Self-Care: Recovery is a process that requires self-care and self-compassion.

This means taking time for yourself, practicing positive self-talk, and setting healthy boundaries with others. It’s important to prioritize your mental, emotional, and physical well-being during this time. Surrounding yourself with supportive and understanding people can also be beneficial in your recovery journey.

Aftercare Planning

Developing a long-term plan to prevent relapse, which may include continued therapy, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ins with healthcare providers. This is an essential step in the recovery process, as it helps individuals maintain their progress and avoid potential triggers that could lead to relapse.

Rehabilitation programs can vary in length and intensity, depending on the individual’s needs and severity of the addiction.

I was just abruptly taken off of them, no tapering off, nothing! Hence, I had withdrawals so bad it was worse than the anxiety and depression combined. I don’t think she knew what she was doing.

Relapse Prevention

A personal view of benzodiazepine abuse treatment and finding ways not to relapse. I’m a firm believer in mindset for how you deal with benzo addictions. Now, I’m taking medicines that I was addicted to in the past, and I have no problems. I firmly believe I wasn’t going to have a relapse, so I could take them again. I definitely didn’t want to go through the withdrawal process again (three times was enough).

But, I wanted to go back on the Klonopin, because it helped with anxiety, while the drug I was taking (Hydroxyzine) after didn’t do sh*t. I mustered up the courage to ask my GP if he would put me back on Klonopin, and he agreed. My life turned around after that point. I take .5 mg a day, just enough to keep the anxiety at bay.

Sum It All Up

Addiction to benzos (or any drug) is no place to be. It’s a lonely, cold place to be in your life, but if you have the right mindset, you can accomplish anything. In the beginning, I always thought the Artane was my answer to that. I was so dead wrong, it was within me the whole time. I just didn’t discover it until later.

What do I say to those addicted to benzos, right now? Change how you perceive the drug. Don’t use it as a crutch or to escape your feelings that you don’t want to deal with. That’s not what it’s there for. You need to deal with each and every feeling that arises.

So don’t think getting that “high” is the answer to your prayers. It will just lead you down a path that is destructive and lonely. You’re trying to find solace in a pill, when it’s been inside of you all along. Hopefully, you will find it sooner rather than later. And you won’t go down the path that me and so many others have gone on. Peace and always love. Until next time…

Articles About Benzodiazepine Abuse

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Addiction: Part I. Benzodiazepines—Side Effects, Abuse Risk and Alternatives

Addiction, Benzodiazepines 3 Facts About Benzo Addiction and Abuse

Have a Good One,

Cindee Murphy
“One Voice Who Was Addicted To Benzos”

“One of the hardest things was learning that I was worth recovery.”– Another diamond from Demi speaking truth about addiction recovery

“What is addiction, really? It is a sign, a signal, a symptom of distress. It is a language that tells us about a plight that must be understood.”
– Alice Miller on the true meaning of drug addiction recovery.

“Nobody stays recovered unless the life they have created is more rewarding and satisfying than the one they left behind.”– Anne Fletcher on what addicted individuals need to achieve true sobriety.

“You can get the monkey off your back, but the circus never leaves town.”– Anne Lamott

“Addiction is an adaptation. It’s not you–it’s the cage you live in.”– Johann Hari