Understanding the Effects of Benzodiazepines

Curious about the impact of benzodiazepines? Learn about its effects and discover effective treatment options to overcome benzodiazepine abuse.

What Are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines, otherwise known as “benzos,” are a class of medication that can help people feel calm and relaxed. Physicians often prescribe them for anxiety, sleep problems, and other conditions. While benzodiazepine medications can be helpful for people who need them, they can also have some life-threatening effects.

Scope of Misuse

Between 2019 and 2020, emergency department visits involving benzodiazepine overdose (per 100,000 visits) increased by 23.7%.¹ Benzodiazepine-related deaths also increased by 25.1% from 2019 to 2021.²

The dangers of these drugs make it essential for physicians to monitor prescriptions, dosing, and side effects. Patients should also always follow prescription directions and report any side effects to their doctors.

Why Do People Use Them?

People use benzos to help manage a range of conditions, including anxiety disorders, insomnia, and seizures. They work by slowing down the activity in the brain and nervous system, which can help reduce feelings of anxiety and promote relaxation.³

In some cases, benzodiazepines can help manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and panic disorders. However, it’s important to note that these medications can be highly addictive and may cause a range of side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.

Are They Prescribed?

Individuals can only obtain these substances through a doctor’s prescription. Purchasing or using these medications without a prescription and against a doctor’s orders is illegal.

Are They Intended for Recreational Use?

Benzos are not intended for recreational use and can be dangerous when misused. These medications are controlled substances, meaning they are only available with a prescription and have some potential for abuse and dependence.⁴

While some people may misuse benzodiazepines for their sedative effects or to enhance the effects of other substances, doing so can lead to a range of negative side effects, such as fatigue, depression, and impaired judgment.

In some cases, benzodiazepine abuse can also lead to addiction, overdose, and even death.

Symptoms and Side Effects of Use

Here are some common symptoms associated with use:

Drowsiness or feeling sleepy
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking clearly
Confusion or forgetfulness
Lack of coordination or balance issues
Nausea or vomiting
Headaches or dizziness
Blurred vision or difficulty seeing clearly
Mood changes, such as feeling depressed or anxious
Decreased sex drive or difficulty achieving orgasm

It’s important to note that these symptoms may vary from person to person. If you experience any of the symptoms above, contact your doctor immediately.

What Are the Short-Term Side Effects?

The short-term side effects of misuse can include the following:

Decreased motor coordination
problems with memory
Decreased blood pressure
Lack of coordination or balance issues
Nausea or vomiting
Headaches or dizziness
Blurred vision or difficulty seeing clearly

What Are the Long-Term Side Effects?

The long-term side effects of benzodiazepine abuse can include the following:

What Are the Side Effects of Benzodiazepines on Mental Health?

They can affect mental health in various ways, including:

Hallucinations
Confusion
Memory loss
Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings
Impaired judgment and decision-making skills

What Are the Side Effects on Physical Health?

Benzodiazepine abuse can also affect physical health, causing various symptoms such as:

Drowsiness
Slowed breathing
Elevated risk of falls and fractures in older adults
Unsteady gait
Lack of coordination
Dizziness, blurred vision, and nausea
Changes in appetite or weight
Sexual dysfunction
Changes in heart rate and blood pressure

What Are the Side Effects on Emotional Health?

The emotional side effects of benzodiazepines include:

Loneliness
Depression
Aggression
Mood swings
Irritability
Agitation or restlessness
Nervousness and panic attacks

What Are the Side Effects on Social Life?

The side effects on social life can include:

What Are the Side Effects of Benzodiazepines Financially?

Benzodiazepine abuse can adversely affect individuals financially due to the following:

Treatment Options for Misuse and Addiction

Treating benzodiazepine abuse can be a complex process that involves a combination of different approaches. Some of the most common treatment options include:

Detoxification

Detoxification is an essential step towards reclaiming a healthy, happy life free from the grips of benzodiazepine addiction. This process involves the removal of harmful toxins from your body, giving you a fresh start to begin your journey toward recovery. While it may seem daunting at first, detoxification is a crucial first step toward a brighter tomorrow.

At Essence Healthcare, you can break free from the chains of addiction and start living life on your terms. Don’t let addiction control your life any longer—take the first step toward detoxification by contacting us today.

Support Groups

Support groups offer a safe, supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences, offer encouragement, and receive guidance from others who have been through similar struggles.

Whether it’s a 12-Step program or a peer-led support group, these gatherings can be an invaluable source of strength and motivation on your road to recovery. With the support of others who understand what you’re going through, you can find the courage to take charge of your life and achieve sobriety.

Behavioral Therapies

When it comes to overcoming benzodiazepine abuse and addiction, behavioral therapies can be a game-changer. These therapies focus on changing harmful behaviors and thought patterns, giving you the tools you need to break free from the cycle of addiction. Some examples include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and contingency management (CM).

Essence Healthcare offers a variety of behavioral therapies to meet each patient’s unique needs. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, you can learn to identify triggers, manage cravings, and develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Medications

Medications can be a powerful tool in the fight against benzodiazepine abuse and addiction. Some treatment medications help taper off substances safely. Others can help alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings and relapse.

With the guidance of a healthcare professional, you can find the medication regimen that works best for you and start reclaiming your life.

Let's Fight Benzodiazepine Addiction Together

At Essence Healthcare, our team of compassionate professionals will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs. With a focus on holistic healing and a commitment to client-centered care, we can help you reclaim your life and rediscover your essence.

Contact Essence Healthcare Today

Let our experts be your guide on the road to recovery. Our team of experienced professionals understands the unique challenges of benzodiazepine abuse and addiction, offering compassionate support every step of the way.

From detoxification to individual and group therapy sessions, we tailor our services to meet your unique needs and help you achieve lasting recovery. By focusing on holistic, evidence-based treatment, our team will help you heal your mind, body, and spirit.

Resources

Questions About Treatment?

We are a patient-first substance abuse and mental health treatment facility located in Los Angeles, California. At Essence Healthcare, we provide different levels of care from detoxification to drug rehab aftercare. Our team is standing by to address your questions. Your call is confidential and no obligation is required.