Valium, one of the brand names of the generic drug diazepam, is classified as a benzodiazepine and is prescribed by doctors and psychiatrists to treat anxiety, seizures, and even alcohol withdrawal. Valium can also be used to provide sedation before medical procedures and to temporarily relieve muscle spasms.
Because long-term use (use over a 4-month period) has not been assessed by systematic clinical studies, Valium should only be taken for short periods of time. It is not meant to treat chronic or long-lasting conditions but instead is to act as temporary relief from mental or physical stresses.
However, due to its calming attributes and the fact that the drug is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the country, it’s often abused—either taken in larger quantities or for longer periods of time than originally prescribed. Addiction typically follows close behind, which is why it is vital to both recognize what the symptoms of abuse are—and where to get Valium addiction treatment, if necessary, for yourself or for a loved one.
The Risks of Valium Abuse
Just like any drug, using Valium for the sake of a high not only creates dependency, it can also lead to serious physical and emotional consequences. One of the biggest problems with Valium abuse is that the side effects from the drop often include the same issues for which Valium was prescribed in the first place, such as:
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Depression
- Irritation
- Rapid heart rate
- Stomach cramps
- Fever
When an individual abusing Valium hits the decline and begins to experience one or more of these symptoms, it is all too tempting to try to counteract them with more Valium, creating a dangerous cycle of highs and lows that can be extremely difficult to escape from without professional assistance.
Additionally, prolonged Valium abuse can have severe long-term effects that may, in some cases, cause permanent damage:
- Physical weakness
- Concentration problems
- Hallucinations
- Difficulty breathing
- Slowed pulse
- Memory loss
- Hostile behavior
- Heart attacks
- Coma
Experiencing any of these symptoms is reason enough for many to want to quit taking Valium as soon as possible. But before you or your loved one attempts to detox at home, there are the risks of withdrawal to consider.
Coping Safely With Valium Withdrawal Symptoms
Even with normal use, Valium withdrawals can be intense. Taking the drug for an extended period of time, in high doses, or having co-occurring health problems can all further magnify Valium withdrawal symptoms, which include:
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Numbness
- Anxiety
- Personality changes
- Coma
- Respiratory distress
- Tachycardia
All of these, of course, can be difficult—even dangerous—to attempt to deal with at home, even with the help of trusted family or friends. To ensure your own, or your loved one’s, safety throughout the withdrawal period, it is crucial to seek medical support at a reputable detox center. The unique expertise of addiction specialists, combined with 24/7 medical supervision and support, offers the most effective means of minimizing both discomfort and risk while coming off of a drug like Valium.
Valium Addiction Treatment Supports Sustainable Recovery
While medically-supervised detox is an important first step, lasting recovery from Valium addiction requires help beyond this point as well. A long-term addiction treatment program offers many benefits. Addiction specialists can help you or your loved one find healthier ways to address the initial concerns for when you were first prescribed Valium, as well as any underlying issues that may have contributed to the development of your dependency. An individualized treatment plan will also help you build the skills and resilience necessary to cope with cravings and avoid relapse.
It may not be easy to admit that you or a loved one may need Valium addiction treatment, but finding the right support is critical to building a stable foundation for lasting recovery. The sooner you reach out for help, the sooner the healing process can begin.