Benzodiazepines

Part of the class of psychoactive drugs and carrying a wide potential for addiction and abuse, benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and other mental health disorders.  Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are relatively safe for short term use but should not be prescribed or taken recreationally long-term due to their extreme potential for causing physical and psychological addiction.

Types of Benzodiazepines

The most common types of benzodiazepines include Xanax and Klonopin.  Librium and many other types of benzodiazepines are also on the market today and found on the street as the result of illegal prescription sales.  Lorazepam, a commonly prescribed benzo, may be used to treat anxiety, psychological disorders, depression and panic disorder.

Benzodiazepines Side Effects

Many different side effects may become present when an individual begins taking benzodiazepines.  Some of the most common side effects of using these medications include muscle relaxation, sedation and drowsiness.  Other side effects of benzodiazepines include:

• Slurred speech
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Reduced alertness and reactions
• Decreased libido
• Erectile dysfunction
• Depression
• Impaired judgment
• Appetite changes
• Nightmares

Benzodiazepine Addiction

As with many prescription pills, benzodiazepines have a wide potential for causing addiction that is both physically and psychologically difficult to deal with.  Addiction to benzos such as Xanax or Klonopin can result in many different health complications and may cause withdrawal if the individual abruptly stops taking the medication.  For those who become addicted to Xanax, withdrawal symptoms can be especially sever and may include:

• Increased anxiety
• Increased panic attacks
• Depression
• Mood swings
• Reduced Motivation
• Shakes and tremors
• Seizures
• Death

Treatment for Benzodiazepine Addiction

If you or someone you love is addicted to a benzodiazepine or any other type of prescription medication, the best thing you can do is to get immediate help.  Treatment for benzodiazepine addiction consists of detox, therapy and aftercare that ensure that individual remains on the right track to attain their recovery goals from start—to finish!  Benzodiazepine addiction does not have to take complete control of your life.  You can get back what matters most to you by getting the help, hope and support you need to overcome the physical and emotional stronghold that benzos have on you and taking back your life.

Most pill rehab centers and treatment facilities are prepared to provide effective treatment for benzodiazepine addictions such as a Xanax addiction or addiction to Klonopin.  From detox through the aftercare phase, the rehab center will help you with every little step of the addiction recovery process.  Over time, you will notice that all symptoms and many of the memories that you have of benzo addiction will gradually become a part of the past.