Withdrawing from Benzodiazepines: Symptoms, Safety, and Treatment

GABA receptors allow us to experience calm when stressful cues occur in our environment. However, benzodiazepines damage GABA receptors causing them to develop a sensitivity to benzodiazepines and natural GABA molecules. This means benzodiazepine addicts are not able to relax and often suffer from severe anxiety as a result.

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They enhance the neurotransmitter GABA’s effect in the brain, which results in sedative, hypnotic (sleep-inducing), anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties. Below is a breakdown of benzodiazepines, categorized by their generic names, brand names, common uses, and half-life information. 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 benzodiazepine withdrawal withdrawal and detox process as comfortable as possible, avoiding the risks of stopping without medical supervision. It is as if the nervous system has a “memory” of the withdrawal(s) and/or damage from a substance like benzodiazepines. This “memory” of prior withdrawal(s) and/or damage somehow remains “imprinted” within the nervous system.

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Dr. Thankachen sees patients with an array of disorders, including depression, bipolar illness, schizophrenia, anxiety, and dementia-related problems. Navigating the journey of benzodiazepine withdrawal is a profound challenge that demands courage, patience, and comprehensive support. It’s a path marked by complexities and personal trials, yet it is also a journey toward reclaiming control and finding a healthier balance in life. The withdrawal process, while daunting, offers an opportunity for growth and healing, underscored by the resilience of the human spirit. Recognizing the variability and potential challenges of benzodiazepine withdrawal is crucial.

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If you take an intermediate-acting benzodiazepine, like alprazolam, or a long-acting benzodiazepine, like diazepam, it may take longer for withdrawal symptoms to appear. If you want to stop taking benzodiazepines after consistent long-term use, your doctor can help you gradually taper off your medication. Tapering can help take the edge off withdrawal symptoms like tremors and nausea, though it may not prevent withdrawal symptoms entirely. No one should attempt to get off benzo drugs without the supervision of a healthcare professional. Severe symptoms and reactions can occur, and working with a professional can help a person avoid or manage these symptoms. There are three possible phases for benzo withdrawals, each with an estimated timeline.

• The experience of withdrawing from benzodiazepines is not a one-size-fits-all process.
• In some cases, these can be life-threatening, particularly when your healthcare provider is prescribing high doses of benzodiazepines.
• Understanding the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal is the first step toward managing it effectively.
• Unlike many other medications, there is often a significant period of time after the taper is complete where patients still experience a variety of the same symptoms they had while tapering.
• Diazepam (Valium) is one of the most slowly eliminating benzo medications, with a half-life of up to 200 hours.
• Learn effective communication strategies and educate yourself on substance use.
• At Levelheaded Mind, Jezel Rosa, PMHNP-BC, is available to help with your benzodiazepine withdrawal.

There is no need to draw up a schedule through the end of the process. Your unique benzodiazepine withdrawal schedule can be adjusted throughout, depending on how you feel at each stage. The lessening of symptoms is termed a “window”, as in a window to the patient’s condition prior to exposure to benzodiazepines. The increase of symptoms is termed a “wave”, as in being engulfed in a wave of symptoms. From prevention programs to health risks, learn how drugs are all around in Ohio.

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Because when an addict consumes benzodiazepines, GABA receptors become ‘down-regulated’. It’s impossible to compel GABA receptors to return to normal functioning. The body may require a significant amount of time to ‘up-regulate’ GABA receptors to normal functioning.

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Detoxification from benzodiazepines carries significant risks, primarily due to the potential for life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Those who have been using high doses or have a long history of dependency are at a higher risk for severe complications, including seizures and psychosis. Factors such as the specific benzodiazepine used, duration of usage, and individual health conditions can also influence the severity of withdrawal. No, abruptly stopping benzodiazepines can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. A medically supervised tapering process is recommended to reduce dosage drug addiction over time and minimize withdrawal symptoms safely. Understanding the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal is the first step toward managing it effectively.

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This can involve living at a detox facility or hospital for several weeks, where you can receive constant medical monitoring and psychological support. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean you will require inpatient care. Most people do okay with tapering their benzodiazepines at home with the help of their primary care doctor or psychiatrist. You should plan to stay in touch with your doctor regularly during the tapering process, either by phone or during office visits.

Unlike many other medications, there is often a significant period of time after the taper is complete where patients still experience a variety of the same symptoms they had while tapering. This can extend well beyond the time where there is any active benzodiazepine or metabolite present, sometimes for years after the completion of the taper. The physician must also assist and guide the patient through this critical recovery period. If your patient has self-diagnosed their physiologic dependence on benzodiazepines, there is a good chance that they have done it via internet searches and contacts. There is a set of well-established terms in common use in the online benzodiazepine withdrawal sufferer community.