Benzodiazepines, colloquially known as benzos, belong to a class of medications known as sedative hypnotics.
These fast-acting, psychoactive substances are classified by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as Schedule IV Controlled Substance, meaning they are “defined as drugs with a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence.” When used properly, benzodiazepines can be effective in treating a variety of ailments and have been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) specifically for use in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), insomnia, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), seizure disorders, and panic disorder. They are intended for short-term, sporadic use, as a person can become physically dependent on benzodiazepines in as little as 30 days. The addictive qualities of benzodiazepines lead them to be habit-forming, even when used as prescribed at therapeutic doses.
Withdrawal Symptoms
The severity of withdrawal symptoms an individual may experience will vary and will depend on several factors. The length of time a person has abused benzodiazepines, the dosage abused, if he or she simultaneously used or abused other substances, his or her personal health history, and any possible comorbid diseases will all effect one’s withdrawal experience. Commonly reported withdrawal symptoms include, but are not limited to any combination of the following examples, provided by Medical News Today:
- Dizziness
- Sweating
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Seizures
- Diarrhea
- Increased heart rate
- Depression
- Muscle weakness
The onset of withdrawal symptoms usually beings within six to eight hours after a person has taken his or her last shorter-acting benzodiazepine dose, and between twenty-four to forty-eight hours after a person has taken his or her last longer-acting benzodiazepine dose.
Detox Timeline
Benzodiazepines work by interacting with the natural functioning of one’s brain and central nervous system. Therefore, to detox from benzos safely and effectively, the duration of the detox process is lengthened. Unlike many other substances, where detox requires an individual to immediately cease substance use, it is generally recommended for an individual who has consistently taken benzos for two weeks or longer to taper off the substance as opposed to stopping abruptly. The tapering-off method, gradually reducing one’s dose over time, enabling one’s body to slowly acclimate to the lessened amount of benzos present in his or her system. An individual detoxing from benzodiazepines will work with a medical professional to develop a plan to effectively take him or her off the medication. Depending on one’s situation, this may include lowering the dose over a single week or several weeks. The timeline to wean off benzos will be different for each person as it will be greatly informed by the individual and his or her unique situation.
For Information and Support
Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959 or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.
