Its high potential for addiction stems from its powerful pain-relieving and euphoric effects. These factors don’t guarantee you’ll have severe withdrawal symptoms, but they can increase your vulnerability. So, your doctor may recommend a slower taper schedule as a safety precaution. Short-acting benzodiazepines are much more likely to cause rebound symptoms. In fact, if you take your medication every other day, you may notice rebound symptoms on the benzodiazepine withdrawal day between doses. Read on to learn more about benzodiazepine withdrawal, including the signs, how long it lasts, and how to get support with tapering off safely.
First Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
You may have to pause, slow down, or speed up depending on how your body reacts to withdrawal. For example, say you’re tapering off a dose of 20 milligrams (mg) of diazepam (Valium). A very quick taper would involve reducing the dose by 5 mg (25%) each week. People tapering off the same original dosage of medication can have drastically different tapering experiences. All benzodiazepines work by increasing theactivity of the neurotransmitter GABA.
- From 1996 to 2013, the number of people filling benzodiazepine prescriptions increased by 67%.
- Engagement in comprehensive support programs post-detox can further enhance recovery outcomes.
- At BIG SKY Treatment, we understand that overcoming benzodiazepine withdrawal is a profoundly personal journey.
- Benzos – amazingly effective until they aren’t, until youneed more and more and you still don’t feel OK – until the only reason youstill use them is because you just can’t stop.
- However, a person can easily get addicted to benzo if they take too much, take it longer than prescribed, or abuse it for its sedative effects.
- But though quitting is sensible, it’s certainly not easy,especially if you don’t start with a reasonable understanding of the processand a solid plan for success.
Understanding the Psychological Aspects of Addiction
- Thus they are commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, sleep disturbances, convulsions, and muscular tension.
- Tapering can help take the edge off withdrawal symptoms like tremors and nausea, though it may not prevent withdrawal symptoms entirely.
- The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing.
- If you stop or reduce your dose suddenly, you will experience withdrawal symptoms.
- It typically begins within a few days after stopping benzodiazepines and can last from two weeks to several months, with a general range of 5 to 28 days.
Exposure to outdoor daylight early in the day can help re-establish circadian rhythms, managing sleep disturbances during withdrawal. Additionally, employing natural methods, such as drinking caffeine-free tea before bed or practicing meditation, can aid in improving sleep quality during withdrawal. These symptoms can be quite disruptive and may require medical intervention or support for those with seizure disorders. We’re here to guide you every step of the way, offering compassionate care, evidence-based treatments, and unwavering support.
Can I Get Around Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?
Benzodiazepine detoxification duration varies significantly based on the specific type of benzodiazepine and individual usage patterns. Typically, withdrawal symptoms begin within 24 hours after the last dose. Tapering can be done on an outpatient basis, but it is often best to do it at alcoholism symptoms a rehab facility. The benzo detox program at Port St. Lucie Hospital prioritizes patient comfort and safety. Other treatment facilities may provide a secure place to detox but fail to offer medical assistance, or vice versa. At Port St. Lucie Hospital, however, we implement world-class care on every front.
Many individuals find themselves facing a range of unexpected and often debilitating withdrawal symptoms, leaving them feeling trapped and alone. Detoxing safely and effectively from prescription drugs usually needs professional support as trying to detox without medical supervision can be difficult and dangerous. However, safe, effective treatment options are available to make the withdrawal and detox process as comfortable as possible, avoiding the risks of stopping without medical supervision. Detoxing at home is risky due to the potential for severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. Detoxing from benzodiazepines can feel intimidating, but you don’t have to do it alone. Medical detox at Denovo Recovery provides professional care in a safe and supportive setting.
The Importance of Celebrating Milestones in Recovery
Evidence shows that roughly 25% of all Americans who use benzos use the drugs long-term — many of whom are unaware they’re exposing themselves to a high risk for benzo addiction and overdose. Researchers say benzo addiction is becoming its own major epidemic being overlooked as the nation continues fighting its ongoing opioid crisis. In 2015, 23% of people who died from an opioid overdose also tested positive for benzos.
Reclaim Your Life: Hope and Healing from Benzo Withdrawal
- If you would like to learn more about how our services could help you—or your loved one—begin the path to recovery, please contact our admissions representatives today.
- They can create a calming effect in the brain, making them helpful in managing conditions like anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and insomnia.
- Engaging in a medically supervised detox program greatly enhances safety during withdrawal.
- It is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice or services.
This is particularly true if you are also giving up other substances, like alcohol or opioids. During your taper, you may still experience some of the symptoms of withdrawal. Learn effective communication strategies and educate yourself on substance use. Even if someone successfully stops using benzos for anxiety, the rebound effect and residual anxious feelings may make it difficult to remain sober.
