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Benzodiazepines, are they safe? - Serenity Ranch

  

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So what are Benzodiazepines?

We have recently had an influx in inquiries about Benzodiazepines, their side effects and if it is possible to get treatment for a Benzo addiction. In short, YES treatment is available.Benzodiazepines are highly addictive and just because they are a prescribed drug, does not mean that they are safe to use for a prolonged period of time.

Benzodiazepines are a family of drugs prescribed primarily for anxiety and insomnia. They affect the nervous system by reduction of anxiety, for sleeplessness and muscle relaxation . Benzodiazepines include Diazepam ( Valium) , Temazepam, Nitrazepam, Lorazepam ( Ativan), and benzo-like drugs such as Zopiclone, Zolpidem and Zaleplon.

What are the side effects / symptoms of long term use?

 It is important to remember that a person will not experience all of the symptoms listed below, but these are some that have been reported:

Common Symptoms

Fear

General anxiety 
Panic attacks 
Phobias, especially agoraphobia and claustrophobia 
Lack of confidence 
De-realisation 
De-personalisation

Sleep

Sleeplessness 
Disturbed sleep 
Nightmares

Mood

Depression 
Anger 
Aggression 
Anxiety 
Over-excitement, restlessness 
Lack of concentration, poor memory 
Lack of interest 
Minor problems appear bigger 
Sometimes suicidal thoughts

Sensory

Enhanced sensitivity to sound, light, taste or smell 
Blurred vision 
Tinnitus 
Giddiness and sense of movement 
Tingling or burning sensations 
Sensation of insects crawling under the skin 
Numbness 
Feeling unreal

Physical

Exhaustion, inertia 
General aches and pains (muscle tension) 
Weakness in arms and legs (Jelly legs) 
Muscle twitching 
Stomach and bowel problems, irritable bowel syndrome, hiatus hernia 
Influenza-like symptoms 
Jaw pains, toothache 
Sweating 
Feeling too hot / too cold, sometimes in rapid succession 
Trembling 
Palpitations 
Headaches 
Rashes

Extreme symptoms (after rapid withdrawal from high doses)

Convulsions 
Psychotic symptoms including hallucinations and delusions 
Delirium 
Confusion

(Information courtesy of : www.bataid.org)

Similar to the much debated Oxycontin issue, Benzo’s also seem to create the illusion with the public that they are prescribed, so they must be safe. It is easy to blame doctors and medical professionals for not managing prescriptions or being more aware of the potential harm that drugs cause. The fact is that every individual needs to make sure they know what they are taking and what the potential risks are. Why are we so careful in selecting the right car to buy and read up about them, but trust pills and medications blindly?

Treatment options:

 Even though the detox  or titration of Benzo’s may differ from other drugs, the treatment for the addiction remains universal. We would always recommend doing a safe reduction schedule with your doctor before attempting to stop using Benzo’s. Like any drug used for a long time, going cold turkey may be dangerous. So speak with your doctor and an addiction specialist if you feel you may need help with your Benzo use.

 Case Study:

 This video is an interesting story about one person's experience with Benzodiazapines. 

 If you or anyone you know needs help, click the button below.