Addiction rates in the United States have continued to climb throughout the past decade and are at an all-time high. While many illicit drugs, such as cocaine and meth, contribute to this increase in addiction rates, prescription drugs also play a large part. Benzos are some of the most overprescribed and often abused drugs today—and benzo addiction is deadly. There is a misconception that benzos are perfectly safe because doctors are prescribing them. However, this is not the case, as these benzos can potentially be fatal if taken with alcohol or other drugs.
If you or someone you know requires a Murrieta, California, benzo rehab program, Solution Based Treatment & Detox is here. You can overcome benzo addiction with treatment and support. Our treatment center offers addiction treatment programs for many of the most commonly used substances, including benzos. There is no shame in asking for help on the road to recovery. Contact us at 833.999.1941 so we can have our welcoming and compassionate staff support you on your journey to sobriety. There’s no better time than now to start recovering from addiction.
What Are Benzos?
Benzodiazepines or benzos are drugs typically used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. Some commonly prescribed benzos include Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium. Benzos work by enhancing the effects of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, resulting in a calming effect. This calming effect can be very pleasurable and desirable for some people if they have not experienced relief from their symptoms in a long time.
Benzos are known by many names, especially on the streets, with some of the more frequently used ones being:
- “Blues”
- “Candy”
- “Chill pills”
- “Totem poles”
- “Z Bars”
- “Planks”
- “Zannies”
- “School Bus”
- “K-Pin”
Despite the innocuous nicknames for the drug, benzo addiction is deadly. Its withdrawal symptoms can be painful and long-term use of benzos can result in several unwanted health consequences.
Dangers of Benzo Addiction
While benzos are effective at treating anxiety and insomnia, they can be highly addictive and dangerous if misused. There is a high risk of potentially deadly benzo abuse. Benzo addiction often develops after taking the medication for a legitimate medical reason. However, people who have become addicted to benzos may take them in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed.
Side Effects of Benzo Use
Benzo addiction dangers do start with the side effects of its use, including:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Memory problems
- Impaired coordination
If someone has an addiction to benzos, they are also more likely to exhibit impaired judgment when attempting to procure more of the drug. People who buy benzos on the street will never truly know what they are buying, as the medication is not tested or verified for use. This can lead to severe medical conditions if the drug is impure or not actually a benzo.
Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms
Additionally, people who abuse benzos can develop a tolerance to the drugs, meaning they need to take increasingly larger doses to get the same effect. Tolerance can lead to physical dependence, which means people experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. Withdrawal from benzos can be severe, and symptoms can include some of the following:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Increased heart rate
Benzo addiction is a severe medical condition that requires treatment from a qualified addiction specialist. The longer a person has been taking benzos and the higher the dosage, the more likely they will experience serious withdrawal symptoms. Due to the increased risks of severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings, professional treatment is recommended when detoxing from benzos. Without medical supervision, benzo withdrawals can even be fatal.
Find Benzo Addiction Treatment in California at Solution Based Treatment & Detox
At the Solution Based Treatment & Detox facility in Murrieta, California, we specialize in treating various substance use disorders, including benzo addiction. We offer a community of like-minded people knowledgeable about addiction, supported by a large team of licensed medical professionals. With our family-friendly and community-oriented atmosphere, our clients can feel like the treatment center is their home away from home as they start on the path toward a healthier life. Contact Solution Based Treatment & Detox today at 833.999.1941, and let us help you get started on recovery.