Benzodiazepines are a substance that is also referred to as a tranquilizer and carries a high potential for dependency. In 2013, it was estimated that about 14.7 million American adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription. This number was up 67% from just 6 years earlier (Bachhuber, 2016). The benzo detoxification process can lead to serious withdrawal side effects and professional medical assistance is highly advised to ensure safety.
What is a Benzodiazepine?
A benzodiazepine, or ‘benzo’, is the name of a class of drugs that are used to treat a range of conditions, including insomnia, anxiety, sleep disorders, and even alcohol withdrawal. These substances act on the GABA receptors in the brain and produce a soothing effect, and dependence can develop in as little as a few weeks of use.
Benzo Use Side Effects
- headaches
- trembling
- abnormal vision
- decreased coordination
- grogginess, dizziness, confusion
- depression
Benzo Withdrawal
Often, benzodiazepine detox can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. However, proper care and medical supervision will greatly reduce the chances of developing these symptoms and ensure a safe detox process. Typically, this means that the individual detoxing will be weaned off of the substance slowly and carefully. Depending on their biology, dosage, and frequency of use, the time it takes to taper off varies, but is usually achieved within a few weeks.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Symptoms will vary depending on how the detox process is conducted. In a professional detox center where the client is weaned off properly, symptoms can occur and often include feeling lethargic and depressed, as well as enduring heavy perspiration and chills.
In an unmanaged situation, benzodiazepine withdrawal becomes a sincere emergency. When an individual stops abruptly, the following symptoms may present:
- tremors, seizures
- muscle cramps
- twitches
- death
Rebound Symptoms
Benzo detox also brings on rebound symptoms. Rebound symptoms are the return of symptoms that may have been present at the start of taking the medication and the symptoms may be heightened for a few days. This includes insomnia, anxiety, and unexpected stress. As the body adjusts through the detox process, these symptoms will subside.
Withdrawal Timelines
Similar to detoxing from other drugs, benzodiazepine withdrawal timelines can differ from case to case. If using short-acting benzodiazepines, withdrawal symptoms may begin to present themselves in as little as 6 to 8 hours. If a longer-acting benzodiazepine is used, it could be 24 to 48 hours before symptoms are observed. Major withdrawal symptoms typically last about 4 days. Rebound symptoms may last about 2-3 days from their onset.
South Florida’s Best Benzo Detox Centers
Our facilities are fully equipped and ready to provide top-quality state-of-the-art service and care to each and every individual who reaches out to us suffering from a benzodiazepine addiction or dependence.
Level Up Treatment Centers in West Palm Beach employs trained and experienced professionals in benzodiazepine detox protocol and procedures.
Get started on the road to recovery today; you’re just a phone call away!
Bachhuber, M. A., Hennessy, S., Cunningham, C. O., & Starrels, J. L. (2016). Increasing Benzodiazepine Prescriptions and Overdose Mortality in the United States, 1996-2013. American journal of public health, 106(4), 686–688. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2016.303061
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