Navigation: Signs of Valium Addiction, Effects of Valium Addiction
Valium is known for its calming properties. This is why it is often used to treat conditions such as anxiety and muscle spasms. But just like all other benzodiazepines, this drug is also highly addictive and commonly abused.
Compared to the other benzodiazepines, Valium has longer-lasting effects. An addiction can develop quickly, especially if the drug is misused. In fact, Valium can cause addiction even if taken at the prescribed doses. Most doctors only prescribe this for short term treatment because of its high abuse potential.
Valium is used to ease anxiety, muscle spasms, and even seizures. It can also be used to help patients deal with the uncomfortable symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. It works by slowing down activity in the central nervous system, which helps relieve stress and anxiety by eliminating hyperactive brain function.
It is typically ingested orally in pill form and is usually taken 1 to 4 times per day when prescribed by a doctor. As a long-acting benzodiazepine, it can stay in the body’s system longer than benzos like Halcion.
In 2011, doctors wrote 14.7 million prescriptions for Valium. In 2013, there were approximately 1.2 million people who abused benzodiazepines like Valium for the first time. When a person starts abusing their prescription in order to get high, their risk of developing an addiction significantly increases.
Taking this drug for longer than six weeks, even with a doctor’s prescription, increases the likelihood of becoming addicted.
Signs of Valium Addiction
Addiction is characterized by the compulsive need to take a certain drug—in this case, Valium. The person will keep on seeking out Valium even when they are already experiencing its negative health effects. Their strong cravings will keep them from quitting the drug, and if they do try to stop taking Valium, they will experience withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal occurs when a person who has developed physical dependence on Valium suddenly stops taking the drug. This throws the body off balance, creating various adverse effects. Valium withdrawal can be dangerous and uncomfortable. The symptoms are often intense, making the person feel like they need Valium just to feel normal.
Some people try “doctor shopping” to get more prescriptions for Valium. This is when a person visits different doctors to get the same prescription multiple times.
Another sign of addiction is isolation from family and friends. The person may prioritize taking the drug over everything else, neglecting their responsibilities and losing interest in activities they used to enjoy.
Addiction not only causes physical and mental health effects, but also social, financial, and legal problems. The person may ruin their relationships or get in trouble with the law by engaging in risky behavior.
Effects of Valium Addiction
Valium is often abused by people who need help dealing with the stress of daily life. They know that benzodiazepines can give them a euphoric experience, so they take these drugs recreationally. Others discover it after being prescribed with Valium or any other benzodiazepine. At first they take it as prescribed, but start abusing it later on.
People mistakenly believe that because a drug is prescribed, then it must be safe and less addictive than street drugs like heroin or cocaine. Many people have accidentally overdosed on prescription medications because of these misconceptions.
Valium overdose may cause double vision, drowsiness, trouble breathing, physical weakness, and uncoordinated movement. As a potent depressant, Valium can slow a person’s breathing and heart rate, which could be fatal in some cases.
The risk of an overdose increases if the drug is taken along with other substances, particularly alcohol and other depressants.
If someone in the family is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it is important to seek help. A combination of medical detox and behavioral therapy can go a long way in the fight against substance abuse. But because every individual is affected by addiction differently, a comprehensive program tailored to their specific needs is necessary. Look for a nearby addiction treatment facility today and find out how drug treatment programs work.
Understanding the Effects of Valium Abuse and Addiction https://t.co/Ctko9NfmeY #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
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