A benzodiazepine addiction is likely to happen if you have been taking the drug for a long time. In fact, it is estimated that 44 percent of people who take benzodiazepines will become dependent on it. That is why it is important to know the facts about benzodiazepine withdrawal.
The Withdrawal Process is Long
It may not take long to develop a benzodiazepine addiction. However, the withdrawal process can be quite long. The withdrawal symptoms can last for several years. The type of drug that one is taking will affect how long the withdrawal symptoms will last. For example, Xanax, which is a short-term drug, can cause withdrawal symptoms for a week. Valium, which is a long-acting drug, can cause withdrawal symptoms that last over three months.
The Symptoms can be Painful
One of the reasons that it is difficult to break a benzodiazepine dependency is because the withdrawal symptoms are painful. You may experience the following symptoms.
- Extreme anxiety
- Moderate to severe anxiety
- Poor memory
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle twitching
- Night Sweats
Cold Turkey is not a Good Idea
Because the withdrawal symptoms can be so severe, it is not recommended that you quit cold turkey. Additionally, when the benzodiazepine levels drop too low, you may start to have seizures. You may develop withdrawal symptoms if you are taking a short or long-term benzodiazepine. You could be putting your life at risk if you stop taking this drug.
Other Medications can Worsen Withdrawal Symptoms
If you are taking benzodiazepines, then it is important for you to avoid certain medications. Antidepressants, mood stabilizers and antipsychotic medications can worsen withdrawal symptoms. Keep in mind that certain over-the-counter supplements can also worsen withdrawal symptoms. Magnesium is one of the supplements that can worsen benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms.
Certain Foods can Worsen Withdrawal Symptoms
You will have to watch your diet if you are experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Certain foods can worsen the symptoms. You will need to avoid foods that contain sugar and artificial ingredients. You will also need to avoid foods that have MSG.
It is Possible to get Clean
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can be bothersome. It may seem as though you will never get through this. However, it is possible for you to get clean. Millions of people have been able to do this.
Detox is the First Step
Because it can be dangerous to withdraw from benzodiazepines, it is important for you to detox under the supervision of a medical professional. It is estimated that 30 percent of people who take benzodiazepines for six months will develop health problems.
Going through detox does not guarantee that you will stay sober for the rest of your life. There are steps that you will have to take in order to remain sober. You will have to complete Benzodiazepine drug addiction treatment.
It is important to remember that any type of addiction is an illness. It has to be treated as such. Your mental, physical, psychological and spiritual needs will have to be taken into consideration. When all aspects of the addiction are addressed, it is possible for you to overcome it.
