Valium is one of the most commonly abused benzodiazepines on the market. It’s an addictive prescription drug that produces longer-lasting effects than other drugs in its class. Because of its high potential for abuse, a person can easily become addicted to Valium if they take it without a prescription or do not take it according to their doctor’s directions. As a rehab in Massachusetts, we know that long-term Valium abuse can be difficult to recover from without professional help. Below are a few facts about Valium and why it’s so addictive.
What Is Valium?
Valium, otherwise known as diazepam, is a benzodiazepine drug that’s commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. It may also be administered during alcohol detox to treat withdrawal symptoms. Valium works by reducing brain activity, relieving symptoms of severe stress and anxiety. It usually only comes in pill form and can be taken anywhere between one to four times a day, depending on the person and their doctor’s instructions. As a long-acting benzo, Valium stays in a person’s system much longer than other benzodiazepines like Clorazepate (Tranxene), midazolam (Versed), or triazolam (Halcion). Its long-lasting effects mean that people can take fewer Valium doses per day. However, when a person takes more of it than prescribed or mixes it with other substances, their risk of addiction increases.
Individuals who develop an addiction to Valium usually require professional help. Clearbrook Massachusetts offers a benzodiazepine treatment that is designed to address the repercussions of Valium abuse and can help you or someone you know recover from addiction.
Why Do People Get Addicted To Valium?
People become addicted to Valium because they enjoy its sedative side effects and begin to use more of it when they become tolerant to a certain dosage. A physical and psychological dependence results from the expansion of tolerance, which is when a person no longer experiences the same side effects they once did with a certain amount of drugs or alcohol. One of the most common signs of benzodiazepine abuse is when the person begins taking more than they’re prescribed. Over time, this repeated pattern of behavior contributes to adverse changes in brain function. The mind and body become accustomed to ingesting a certain amount of Valium every day, to the point where the person can no longer control their drug use.
What Are The Effects of Valium Abuse?
Many people underestimate Valium’s potential for abuse because it’s prescribed by a doctor. Many people don’t understand that these drugs are regulated because they can cause addiction, and overstepping any restrictions set by your doctor puts you at risk of developing this disease. Valium has been shown to cause convulsions and coma in long-term users, and can also contribute to harmful behaviors like driving under the influence. Many people also mix benzos like Valium with opioids and alcohol to experience more intense symptoms, increasing their risk of overdose, addiction, and death.
As a sedative, Valium acts on the CNS to reduce brain activity. Some common side effects of Valium include:
- Drowsiness and sleepiness
- Weakness
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech or difficulties speaking
- Seizures
- Rash
- Irregular heartbeat
- Difficulties breathing
- Confusion
Due to people’s misconceptions about Valium, they increase their chances of overdosing when they misuse or abuse it. A person overdosing on Valium may experience symptoms like bluish lips, trouble breathing, and uncoordinated movement. If you recognize these signs of Valium overdose in someone, get help immediately. Not only would this individual need immediate medical assistance, but they may also require inpatient addiction treatment.
Common Valium Abuse Symptoms
Valium abuse often begins harmlessly. A person may take one or two extra pills every once in a while, if they’ve had a long day or need to catch up on sleep. Unfortunately, this kind of behavior can progress into a concerning condition. As Valium users become dependent on it, they may hide their drug use from friends and family and make it difficult for anyone to realize their problem.
Some common signs of Valium addiction you should look out for include:
- Slurred speech
- Lack of coordination
- Dilated pupils
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Isolation from loved ones
- Friend groups that include other people who also use drugs
- Empty pill bottles
- Doctor shopping, hopping from one doctor to another for more prescriptions
- Frequently asking to borrow money
- Problems in school, work, relationships, or finances
Neglecting the symptoms of Valium abuse can be dangerous. If you or a loved one is abusing drugs like Valium or alcohol, do not wait until they hit rock bottom to get help. Call Clearbrook Treatment Centers Massachusetts now at 570-536-9621 to learn more about our Valium addiction treatment and levels of care.
