Benzos, or Benzodiazepines, are psychoactive sedatives. They slow down brain functionality by enhancing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This dulls the central nervous system to create a sense of calm. They are also highly addictive. Many people use benzos due to a prescription and develop a dependence due to the sedative effects. Due to the increasing prevalence of addiction, benzo rehab in Laguna Beach, CA, is becoming increasingly accessible.
At Oceanfront Recovery, we offer evidence-based treatment for benzo addiction in a safe, luxurious, and discreet environment. We prioritize your well-being and comfort while providing high-quality treatment for prescription drug addiction. Our team is committed to helping clients gain sobriety while maintaining their dignity and privacy. To learn more, contact us at 877.296.7477.
What Is Benzo Abuse?
Benzos are depressants that produce experiences of hypnosis and sedation. They are primarily used to relieve anxiety and muscle spasms and treat seizures, insomnia, and social phobias. Benzodiazepines are, for the most part, safe and effective when used as prescribed. However, they have a high potential for addiction and enhance the euphoria of other drugs, especially opioids.
Benzos can be particularly dangerous when mixed with other drugs and to anyone with a predisposition to addiction or a family history of substance abuse. Some of the most common and addictive prescription benzos are:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Triazolam (Halcion)
- Estazolam (Prosom)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Flurazepam (Dalmane)
- Oxazepam (Serax)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Clorazepate (Tranxene)
- Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)
- Estazolam (ProSom)
- Midazolam (Versed)
What Are the Signs of Prescription Abuse?
Anyone who is prescribed benzos can develop a dependence on the drug. However, addiction is usually precipitated by taking a prescription in a higher dose or for longer than prescribed. This is because the longer a person uses benzos, the higher the amount required to feel their sedative effects. For this reason, a person who begins abusing benzos can experience painful withdrawal symptoms that make continued use more attractive than quitting.
Some of the Warning signs of prescription drug abuse are:
- Mixing prescriptions
- Mixing benzos with alcohol or illicit drugs
- Taking more than the recommended dose
- Using a drug for longer than prescribed
- Complaining of vague symptoms to get more prescriptions
- Lack of interest in other treatments or therapies
- Mood and behavior changes
- Taking another person’s prescription
- Secretive behavior
- Drug-seeking behaviors
- Appearing more lethargic than usual
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- New financial problems
- Frequent withdrawal or flu-like symptoms
- Withdrawing from friends, family, and typical activities
How do You Treat Prescription Drug Abuse?
The most effective first step towards treating drug abuse is often talking with a trusted professional or friend about the problem. Talking about prescription drug problems can feel vulnerable, humiliating, and even dangerous. Overdose and continued addiction, however, are far more difficult. The longer an addiction lasts, the harder it is to recover from.
One of the most important things to remember about treating a benzo addiction is that one should never try to quit cold turkey alone. This can lead to intense withdrawal symptoms and even be fatal. Central nervous system depressants must be tapered down by taking smaller and smaller dosages over several days or weeks. Detox should be done with medical supervision in a safe environment with a supportive transition into treatment.
Break Free from Benzo Addiction with Oceanfront Recovery in Laguna Beach
At Oceanfront Recovery, we have extensive experience with medical detox and benzo addiction treatment. We understand the nuances of prescription medication addiction and build our practice around providing high-quality, evidence-based treatments. Additionally, we pride ourselves on the comfort of our luxurious environment with a familial feel and proximity to the Pacific Ocean. To learn more, contact us at 877.296.7477 or fill out our online form.