Benzo Addiction Treatment: What You Should Know
Benzodiazepines, commonly known as ‘benzos,’ are a class of prescription sedatives that act on the central nervous system to produce calming effects. Depending on your prescription, one can obtain benzos in the following forms:
- Hypnotic sedatives: These benzodiazepines help treat insomnia and other sleeping disorders. They can also help control seizures and muscle spasms.
- Anxiolytics: The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration suggests using this form of benzodiazepine to treat panic disorder and anxiety disorders.
Although effective, these forms of prescribed benzodiazepines are addictive and can lead to severe benzodiazepine dependence. If used beyond the prescribed dosage, followed by benzodiazepine discontinuation, it can cause withdrawal symptoms and, in some cases, protracted withdrawal syndromes, which are known as withdrawal phenomena.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), benzodiazepines are Schedule IV controlled substances due to their potential for drug abuse and addiction.
Most individuals struggling with benzodiazepine abuse risk relapse, especially when using over-the-counter drugs like Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, and Xanax. The fine line between medical use and benzodiazepine misuse is often blurred, particularly for individuals with mental disorders like anxiety or those who suffer from panic attacks and may require higher doses.
This can lead to benzodiazepine dependence, and even a gradual tapering of the medication may trigger withdrawal syndrome.
Which Benzodiazepine Has the Highest Risk of Abuse?
Some benzodiazepines pose a higher risk of abuse than others, largely due to how quickly they take effect and their half-life—the time it takes for half of the drug to be metabolized and eliminated from the body. Drugs with shorter half-lives tend to produce rapid, intense effects followed by sharp declines in concentration, which can lead to a more immediate sense of reward and a pronounced withdrawal experience, thereby increasing their potential for abuse.
The Most Abused Benzodiazepines
Some of the most commonly abused benzodiazepines include:
Xanax (Alprazolam): Xanax is a short-acting benzodiazepine with a rapid onset. It is one of the most abused due to its immediate calming effect. However, its short half-life leads to frequent dosing, increasing the risk of tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.
Valium (Diazepam): Valium, although classified as a long-acting benzodiazepine, is frequently abused due to its rapid absorption and potent effects on the central nervous system. With an average elimination half-life of about 48 hours, it remains in the body for an extended period, increasing the risk of drug accumulation and overdose—particularly with repeated or high-dose use.
Klonopin (Clonazepam): Klonopin is a long-acting benzodiazepine often used for seizure control and panic disorder. It has a long elimination half-life (30–50 hours), allowing for less frequent dosing compared to shorter-acting benzodiazepines. However, due to its prolonged adverse effects, it can accumulate in the body with regular use, leading to an increased risk of sedation, cognitive impairment, and dependence.
Ativan (Lorazepam): Ativan is a short-acting benzodiazepine known for its strong calming, sedative, and anti-seizure effects. Unlike Valium and Klonopin, Ativan stays in the body for a shorter time (10–20 hours), making it effective for acute anxiety episodes, preoperative sedation, and seizure management. Its rapid onset and high potency contribute to its potential for misuse and dependence, particularly among individuals seeking its calming effects.
Why Some Benzodiazepines Are More Addictive
Short-acting benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Ativan, have the highest addiction potential due to their quick onset and short duration. This leads users to take higher doses more frequently to maintain the effects, resulting in tolerance and withdrawal symptoms with stopping use.
Signs of Benzo Addiction
The first step in avoiding further risks is identifying benzodiazepine addiction. If you or a loved one are using benzodiazepines, here are signs of benzo addiction:
- Nausea
- Vertigo
- Vomiting
- Tremors
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Loss of appetite
- Lack of coordination
- Frequent headaches
- Respiratory depression
Substance abuse, including benzodiazepine addiction, also has cognitive and psychosocial symptoms, such as:
- Irritability
- Confusion
- Mood swings
- Disorientation
- Need to isolate
- Impaired thinking
- Impaired judgment
- Behavioral changes
Signs of Benzodiazepine Overdose
Combining benzodiazepines with other drugs, like alcohol, can reduce their effect on the central nervous system and increase the risk of overdose. Symptoms of a benzodiazepine overdose include:
- Anxiety
- Tremors
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Breathing difficulties
- Extreme drowsiness
- Blue lips or fingernails
- Loss of consciousness
An overdose of benzodiazepines is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Polydrug abuse, such as mixing benzodiazepines with opioids or alcohol, significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and suicidal ideation. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately. Luxe Treatment Center also offers crisis support for individuals experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms or overdose-related complications.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome: Understanding Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms
Stopping the use of benzodiazepines is a positive step, but abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Common benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Memory problems
- Heart palpitations
- Hallucinations
- Panic attacks
- Muscle pain
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Agitation
- Nausea
Benzo Addiction Treatment at Luxe Treatment Center
At Luxe Treatment Center, we offer comprehensive treatment for benzodiazepine addiction, including inpatient treatment and detox programs. Our evidence-based approach helps individuals safely withdraw from benzodiazepines and other dangerous drugs while providing the necessary medical and psychological support for long-term recovery.
Benzo Detoxification
Detox is the first step in the recovery process, where we use addiction medicine to remove traces of commonly prescribed medications. You’ll be enrolled in a 24/7 detox medical supervision program, ensuring continuous care and support.
At Luxe Treatment Center, supervised detox plays a crucial role in treating substance use disorders, providing a safe environment to effectively manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure a smoother transition to recovery.
Detox Treatment at Luxe Rehab Center
At Luxe Treatment Center in Las Vegas, our detox program is specifically designed for treating benzodiazepine addiction and addressing drug dependence resulting from the use of benzodiazepines. Our process begins with comprehensive physical and mental health assessments that allow us to craft a personalized care plan tailored to your unique needs.
These evaluations help determine the safest medication strategy to manage withdrawal symptoms, minimize cravings, and address any underlying mental health concerns. By assigning a dedicated team to oversee every step of your recovery, we ensure that each patient receives the targeted support necessary for overcoming severe benzodiazepine use.
Our holistic approach not only stabilizes the body during detox but also lays the foundation for long-term recovery, effectively treating benzodiazepine addiction and mitigating drug dependence.
Inpatient Benzodiazepine Dependence Treatment Program
Our comprehensive residential treatment program is designed for individuals battling severe benzodiazepine addiction and drug dependence, providing a structured, recovery-focused environment with 24/7 monitoring, personalized therapy, and consistent pharmacological interventions.
We begin with tailored assessments that guide our approach to treating benzodiazepine addiction, ensuring each patient receives therapeutic dosing and targeted counseling to safely manage withdrawal symptoms and address critical mental health challenges, including suicidal ideation.
Our program also incorporates dynamic support groups, fostering a community where individuals can share experiences, build confidence, and learn from one another. Recognizing that many patients face co-occurring mental health disorders such as anxiety or panic disorders, our dual-diagnosis model integrates specialized mental health care with addiction recovery strategies.
This holistic approach not only mitigates the physical consequences of benzodiazepine misuse but also promotes long-term emotional healing and behavioral change, paving the way for a more complete and lasting recovery.
Why Choose An Inpatient Program for Benzodiazepine Use Disorder
Choosing an inpatient program for benzodiazepine use disorder means accessing a wealth of resources and specialized care designed to support every aspect of your recovery. At Luxe Treatment Center, we offer a comprehensive range of therapy programs tailored to address both addiction and the unique mental health challenges that accompany it.
In addition to structured support groups that foster a strong sense of community, our behavioral therapy sessions actively involve family members, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to support their loved ones throughout the recovery journey.
This family-centered approach is especially beneficial for individuals with complex or physical dependence on benzodiazepines, as it enhances treatment outcomes and promotes lasting healing.
The therapy programs we offer at Luxe Treatment Center include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Contingency management
- Motivational interviewing
- Seeking safety therapy
- Mindfulness therapy
- Family therapy
- Support groups
To enhance the treatment of benzodiazepine addiction, our center offers a variety of holistic therapy options that promote overall well-being. A cornerstone of this approach is experiential therapy, which helps you develop essential survival and coping skills through engaging, hands-on activities. As part of this innovative program, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in the following:
- Tai chi
- Art therapy
- Music therapy
- Exercise therapy
- Culinary therapy
- Recreational therapy
All of these therapies are designed to support your recovery journey and foster a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Why Choose Luxe Treatment Center for Benzo Addiction Treatment
At Luxe Treatment Center, our comprehensive approach to benzodiazepine addiction recovery is built on advanced clinical pharmacology expertise, ensuring that our staff can effectively address the mental health challenges and other conditions that may impact your recovery.
From the moment you begin treatment, you receive the essential tools and skills needed to overcome benzodiazepine dependence, while our programs are designed to tackle multiple substance abuse disorders—whether the issue involves alcohol, cocaine, or other influences.
We welcome patients of all ages, including elderly individuals who may require particularly sensitive care, and our compassionate team is dedicated to providing a supportive environment tailored to your unique needs.
Get The Help You Need To Overcome Benzo Addiction
At Luxe Treatment Center, we understand that the journey to recovery from benzodiazepine addiction and other substance use disorders is deeply personal and transformative. Whether you or a loved one is ready to start this healing process, our dedicated team is here to support you every step of the way.
We create personalized recovery plans tailored to your unique needs, combining evidence-based therapies with holistic treatment options to empower you to conquer addiction and rediscover a fulfilling, purposeful life.
Our comprehensive approach not only addresses the physical aspects of dependency but also supports emotional healing, helping you build the resilience and skills necessary for long-term recovery. When you’re ready to take the first step toward a brighter future, reach out by filling out our confidential online contact form or calling us at (725) 215-3017.
Let Luxe Treatment Center guide you on the path to reclaiming your life and embracing a future filled with hope and renewed strength.
