Addiction is a condition, not a choice. Many people are predisposed to addiction, and like any condition, its onset can be triggered by physical trauma or, in this case, a prescription. Prescription drug addiction is increasingly common, and many people suffer in silence because they believe it isn’t a legitimate addiction. Or that because a Doctor prescribed their drug, that is necessary. Benzo addiction treatment is becoming more widely available to meet the growing need for prescription addiction treatment.
At Nashville Treatment Solutions, we provide safe, discreet, and effective evidence-based treatments for benzo addiction and other substance use disorders. If you or someone you love suffers from prescription drug addiction, we can help. To learn more about addiction recovery and the signs of benzo abuse, contact us at 866.714.5630. Our team is available to answer any of your questions about addiction treatment.
What Are Benzos?
Benzos, or benzodiazepines, are a class of drugs that are psychoactive. They slow down brain functions by enhancing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) to dull the central nervous system, thereby inhibiting sensations and creating a sense of calm or sedation.
Central nervous system depressants such as benzos are commonly used to treat seizures, insomnia, social phobias, and anxiety disorders. They can be short-acting, immediately-acting, or extended-release. While benzodiazepines are generally safe and effective when used as prescribed, they have a high potential for addiction. They can be dangerous to anyone with a predisposition to or history of addiction.
Some common prescription drugs that fall into this category are:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Flurazepam (Dalmane)
- Oxazepam (Serax)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Estazolam (Prosom)
Recognizing the Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse
Benzo drug addiction can happen to anyone. It is usually triggered by using a prescription in a higher dose or for longer than initially prescribed. As a person continues to use benzos, they will need a larger and larger quantity to achieve the initial effects. This can quickly spiral into dependence. Once a person begins abusing benzos, stopping can cause painful withdrawal symptoms, including increased anxiety and severe insomnia.
Mixing benzos with alcohol can quickly lead to addiction as the two depressants compound in the nervous system. In addition, benzos, like other opioids, enhance the euphoric effects of alcohol and other drugs. Combining benzos with opioids is especially dangerous since the enhanced sedative effects can suppress breathing and quickly lead to overdose.
Taking benzos for longer than prescribed, in a greater quantity than specified, or mixing them with any other substance are signs of benzo abuse and can quickly spiral into a harmful addiction.
Get Help with Prescription Drug Addiction from Nashville Treatment Solutions
At Nashville Treatment Solutions, we understand the stigma around seeking treatment for prescription drug abuse. We know how challenging it is to seek help, and we are committed to offering discreet and effective addiction treatment. We are focused on creating a climate of non-judgment, a safe space where people can recover. Our clinicians provide treatments that are holistic, evidence-based, and effective.
We offer a variety of program options, extensive services, and numerous resources for continued support after the course of treatment. If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug abuse, do not wait to get the help you need and deserve. Even if you are not sure what you need, we can help. Our team can consult with you, discern your unique situation and offer treatment options and resources that fit your preferences and circumstances.
Contact us at 866.714.5630 to learn more about the signs of benzo abuse or find a treatment program, contact us at 866.714.5630.
