The Basics

Benzodiazepines are depressants that decrease the speed of an individual’s brain function. Examples of Benzodiazepines brands are Librium, Xanax, Halcyon and Valium. These are prescription medications used to treat individuals who suffer from high-levels of stress, panic attacks and/or other anxiety disorders.  Individuals who use Benzodiazepines may experience feelings of drowsiness, lose their appetite and have difficulty concentrating.

Individuals who have an addiction to Benzodiazepines will find that using them to excess can make it very difficult to function. When individuals are prescribed the drug and take more then they are prescribed, an addiction can occur.  It is very easy to build up a tolerance to Benzodiazepines. Therefore, persons who have developed an addiction will often use more then they are prescribed in order to still feel the effects of the drug. Because of this individuals may quickly run out of the drug. To obtain it, some users will begin doctor shopping, forging prescriptions stealing them when they can. 

Benzodiazepines are used for other purposes besides anxiety reduction. They are sometimes given in lieu of morphine to individuals going through drug detox. Taking this drug allows addicts to wean off whatever drug they are addicted to slowly, making it unnecessary for them to quit cold turkey. Benzodiazepines are help decrease the severity of the withdrawal symptoms that individuals experience after they stop using drugs. 

The Importance of Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines withdrawals can be very comfortable and even dangerous. This is one reason why an addiction to them might continue.  Individuals are often unwilling to suffer through them.  Persons may experience strong feelings of anxiety. Their mind may begin to race.  They are also at risk physically.  Brain seizures are a possibility.  This is because the brain is transitioning from calm feelings induced by the drugs to hyperactivity. Because of this, it is very important that users check into a licensed detox program or enroll in a rehabilitation center whose specialty is working with those with an addiction to Benzodiazepines.