Has your life become unmanageable and painful due to Valium addiction or the abuse of other medications containing diazepam? If so, our Valium detox and recovery program can provide you with the relief you need. Call us today at our 24-Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline (888) 446-5952.
Valium (Diazepam)
Valium abuse and addiction have long been associated with middle and upper-class women who have difficulty coping with the stress of everyday life. But the truth is Valium addiction can and does happen to almost anyone from all walks of life. Although Valium abuse and its associated dangers are less common than with other benzodiazepines such as Xanax, the numbers are still profound. DAWN ED reported 24,118 emergency room visits as a result of Valium abuse and overdose, which is over 66 visits per day in 2011 alone. And like other Benzos ER visits, many abusers went to emergency rooms to get help with Valium detox and withdrawal.
What is Valium (Diazepam)?
Valium belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which are central nervous system depressants (CNS). It is the brand name of a drug called diazepam that acts on unbalanced chemicals in the brain, causing a calming or sedative effect. For that reason, Valium is effective in treating anxiety disorders and the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Sometimes this medication is also prescribed to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Valium and other medications containing diazepam are controlled under Schedule IV of the Controlled Substances Act. Even so, the drug has a long history of diversion for nonmedical use. Recreational and pleasure users abuse Valium and other diazepam-containing tranquilizers because they create feelings of euphoria. These drugs are often used along with methadone to increase the euphoric effects of methadone.
What are the Effects and Dangers of Valium?
Valium should only be used for a short time, which is typically no more than 3 months. Like other benzos, the use of Valium can cause tolerance, mental and physical dependence, and after long periods of use, addiction. The risk of dependence and addiction increases with the duration of Valium therapy, as well as with people who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Taking more Valium than prescribed or in large doses for recreational use can result in overdose and in some cases, can be fatal. Valium overdose symptoms can include:
- Loss of Coordination or balance
- Weak or limp muscles
- Extreme drowsiness
- Fainting
Valium Addiction and Abuse
Valium addiction does not just happen to people who abuse the drug to get high, but also to patients who use the medication as prescribed by their doctor. People who are addicted feel like Valium is controlling their life instead of them controlling their use of the drug. They find themselves always wanting to take the drug, taking more of it and more frequently than prescribed, as well as not being able to stop using Valium, despite the drug’s negative effects. Heavy users and addicts may experience loss of inhibitions, aggression, confusion, hallucinations, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
Valium Withdrawal Symptoms
People who are experiencing Valium addiction may develop serious withdrawal symptoms when they quit taking the benzodiazepine. That’s because CNS depressants act by slowing activity in the brain, so when misusers suddenly abstain from Valium, the brain’s activity can rebound quickly and then race out of control, causing seizures in severe cases. Other common Valium withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Irregular or rapid heartbeat
- Increased blood pressure
- Feelings of numbness or tingling in the limbs
- Body tremors
- Hallucinations
Valium Detox and Recovery
Those who may face serious Valium withdrawal symptoms, such as long-time users and abusers will benefit from the assistance of a medically supervised Valium detox and rehabilitation program. A1 Behavioral Health Services offer a positive environment, staffed with trained and dedicated professionals who can help you with a safe and effective Valium recovery. We provide an Intensive Outpatient Program designed to meet your specific needs. If you need help, get started today by calling our 24-Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline (888) 446-5952.
