Benzodiazepine Detox
Benzodiazepines are classified as depressants, tranquilizers, or sedatives and are often abbreviated to benzo’s. They directly affect the central nervous system slowing the brain activity and function, and they can become addictive after a relatively short period of time.
Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can vary according to how much the person is using, and to name just a few, symptoms may range from:
- Depression
- Insomnia
- Agitation
- Panic attacks
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Loss of motor skills
- Palpitations
It is also known, although uncommon for someone to develop delusions, seizures and black out stages. One of the most worrying symptoms of long-term benzodiazepine use is depersonalisation. It is common for a user to experience an episode of ‘not feeling quite real’. A lingering withdrawal syndrome may develop in a proportion of individuals with symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia and sensory disturbances. In a small number of people it can be severe and resemble serious psychiatric and medical conditions such as schizophrenia and seizure disorders.
Those who are addicted to these drugs should not stop taking them without professional advice. It is recommended that users detox in a professional centre, using a medically managed reduction of the intake of these drugs, while being closely monitored by medical specialists.
Like alcohol, the use of benzodiazepine impairs mental alertness and physical coordination and can dangerously compromise a user’s performance in common daily tasks such as driving. Detox is the first step toward a life free from addictive substances.
Request a Callback
