Millions of people in the United States take prescription drugs to manage or treat mental health and medical conditions. Some medications have the risk of abuse, dependence, and addiction. Prescription drug abuse is a severe problem that requires comprehensive treatment and ongoing support.
Valium is a prescription medication with the potential for misuse and addiction. People who misuse Valium may quickly develop physical dependence. Repeated or heavy Valium abuse can change how the body and brain work. These changes make it very challenging to stop taking Valium when you choose.
This article will explore Valium addiction detox and treatment.
What you will learn:
- What Valium is and how it works
- The side effects and risks of Valium misuse
- How to recognize Valium misuse and addiction
- What to expect from a Valium detox program
If you or someone you love struggles with Valium addiction or other substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Reach out to the caring team of specialists at Alamo Behavioral Health. We are happy to answer your questions, verify insurance, and help you find the right treatment to meet your needs.
Contact us today to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake assessment.
What is Valium (diazepam)?
Valium is the brand name for a prescription medication called diazepam.[1] It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Doctors sometimes prescribe Valium to help treat anxiety and panic disorders. In the past, medical professionals have used Valium to stop muscle spasms, treat seizures, and as a sedative.
Valium works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Medical experts believe that GABA slows brain activity and has a calming, sedative effect.[2]
People who take Valium may experience feelings of relaxation, calm, and reduced anxiety.
The Effects and Risks of Valium Abuse
People may like the way they feel while taking Valium. Some people may misuse Valium. Valium misuse includes:
- Taking a larger dose of Valium than prescribed
- Taking Valium more frequently than prescribed
- Taking Valium for a longer period than prescribed
- Using Valium differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting the tablets
- Taking Valium without a prescription (recreationally)
People who take prescription Valium must follow their doctor’s directions. People who take it recreationally must seek treatment to stop.
Valium misuse can have dangerous psychological and physical symptoms. Some of the unwanted side effects related to Valium abuse include:[3]
- Aggression
- Violent behaviors
- Loss of motivation
- Reduced blood pressure
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and depression
- Poor coordination
People who misuse Valium are at risk of overdose. Repeated or heavy use over a period of time can also lead to a life-threatening addiction.
Recognizing Valium Abuse and Addiction
Recognizing Valium abuse is the first step toward getting life-saving substance abuse treatment. Valium abuse or addiction can change the way a person feels, acts, and thinks. Some signs of addiction to watch for include:
- A noticeable difference in their sleep patterns, behaviors, appetite, or hygiene
- Loss of coordination
- More fatigue or excessive sleepiness
- Speech or movements seem “slowed down”
- Tremors
People with Valium addiction will continue to use Valium, even when it harms them. They may neglect their responsibilities and relationships. Other signs include:
- Having cravings for Valium
- Experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms
- Having new or worsening mental health issues
- Needing to take more Valium to get the desired effects
- Stealing Valium or doctor-shopping to get more
- Using Valium without a prescription
People who exhibit signs of addiction may require a medical detox program. A medically-supported detox program can help to manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. After completing detox, people must participate in comprehensive treatment that supports long-term recovery.
What Happens in a Valium Detox Program?
A Valium detox program provides medical supervision and evidence-based treatment for people with Valium addiction. Quitting Valium can be very challenging. People with Valium addiction typically experience withdrawal symptoms during detox that include:[4]
- Delirium
- Tremors
- Muscle aches
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Depression
- Hallucinations
- Panic attacks
- Loss of appetite resulting in rapid weight loss
- Agitation
- Headaches
During detox treatment, people receive medical and mental health support, including:
- Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Assessments and screenings
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
- A secure, supportive environment
- Nutrition support, acupuncture, yoga, mindfulness, and other holistic therapies
- Support during the transition into a comprehensive rehab program
Medical and mental health specialists continue to assess people throughout detox and adjust their treatment plans as needed. During detox, people typically live in the treatment center until they are ready to transition into a comprehensive treatment program.
Find a Valium Detox in San Antonio
Valium addiction can be challenging to overcome. However, getting the right kind of treatment can help you safely stop using Valium. It can allow you to work toward long-term recovery with the skills and support you require.
Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore your detox and treatment options. We look forward to helping you take the first step of your recovery journey.
References:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Diazepam (Valium)
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Benzodiazepine interactions with GABA receptors
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Diazepam (Valium)
- Sage Journals: Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey
