Benzodiazepine is a family of drugs prescribed by doctors for treating a wide range of psychosomatic conditions. Long-term usage however can lead to tolerance, dependence, and allied complications, causing a full-fledged benzodiazepine addiction problem!
There are different types of formulations that come under this category. Some of them are alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, lorazepam and midazolam. These medications change the response patterns of neurons that may trigger stress and anxiety. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration has prescribed the drug for treating disorders like insomnia, epileptic seizures, social anxiety disorder, general anxiety disorder, and even panic disorders. It is also prescribed in cases of alcohol withdrawal and even for bipolar disorders.
However, the medicine is not prescribed for a period of over 2 weeks owing to long-term and short-term side effects. We take a look at some of the more common and less common ones for fair understanding.
Side Effects of Benzodiazepine
Common side effects of this medication may include confusion, drowsiness, problems in mental coordination, dizziness, enhanced anxiety, and depression. Some of the more severe ones include memory lapses, going into a state of delirium, developing dependence for the drug that may require help from a Minnesota drug rehab facility for corrective action, changes in behavior, and in some cases even dementia! Most of these side effects are liable to occur with long-term usage. Among these, drug dependence may perhaps be the most insidious of all.
One of the biggest dangers of addiction is overdose. Often, patients tend to consume these drugs in enhanced quantities because they develop tolerance towards them. And by doing this they may reach dangerous levels of consumption. This is when the risk of overdosing looms large. We look at some signs of a drug overdose with benzodiazepine.
Signs of Drug Overdose
- Patients may experience extreme drowsiness all the time.
- The breathing rate may become low.
- They may find it difficult to think clearly and there could be a persistent sense of confusion.
- Slurring of speech may occur.
- The patient may experience loss of muscle control
- They may even slip into a comatose state.
If the addiction has reached a level where the substance is being mixed with other intoxicating agents like alcohol, the side effects can be way more serious. Taking these medications with opioids can even prove to be fatal. This is when patients should ideally search for a “rehab near me” and seek help! There are many such facilities that offer comprehensive and holistic treatment plans for a complete remission from drug addiction.
All you need to do is call an addiction hotline and provide a detailed account of your problem. Your identity will be kept confidential. Once you have discussed your case, you will be called in for a face-to-face consultation. There are many ways in which an addiction problem can be addressed. There would be counseling sessions, chats with support groups, positive reinforcements, and even quizzes and questionnaires to help you deal with your urges.
Medicines may also be prescribed to deal with your physical discomfort if any.
