These symptoms are more acute, meaning that benzodiazepines withdrawal symptoms benzo belly symptoms can last much longer than these initial side effects, so it doesn’t seem like there’s a strong link between these factors. Furthermore, it’s extremely dangerous as alcohol, a depressant, can lead to respiratory distress, coma and death. Stopping benzos abruptly increases the likelihood of severe withdrawal, including life-threatening seizures. Medical supervision is strongly recommended to avoid these adverse outcomes.
- Due to each of our unique metabolizing rates and interactions with pharmaceuticals, they don’t always have the same effect on each user.
- However, these medications can also disrupt the natural sleep cycle and cause drowsiness during the day.
- In conclusion, benzodiazepines are a class of psychoactive drugs that can produce a range of effects, including sedation, relaxation, and muscle relaxation.
- Stopping these medications suddenly can lead to seizures, panic, insomnia, and confusion.
Tapering: The Safer Path to Detox
A 2018 analysis also revealed that drug misuse accounts for about 17% of benzodiazepine use among adults in the United States. Withdrawal symptoms may vary from person to person, although there are some common symptoms. Some supplements, such as valerian and melatonin, might also help you get some relief from your symptoms, but research has found mixed results.
Early Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
This call to action proves especially relevant, as those seeking treatment for BZD dependence and withdrawal are on the rise in the United States. Benzos (benzodiazepines) are routinely prescribed to manage anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. This class of medication can be effective for short-term relief, but ongoing use of benzos can provoke physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon moderation or discontinuation. Benzo withdrawal can range from intensely uncomfortable to life-threatening, and it’s generally advisable to seek professional support when quitting. Benzodiazepine withdrawal is a serious medical condition that can affect individuals who stop or reduce their use of these sedative medications. Benzodiazepines like diazepam, lorazepam, alprazolam, and clonazepam are commonly prescribed for anxiety, panic, insomnia, and seizures.
Acute withdrawal
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- If these severe withdrawal symptoms occur, a person needs medical supervision.
- After a month or so, your brain gets used to sending off more neurotransmitters just so some can get past the benzodiazepine blockade.
Benzodiazepines, a class of sedative prescription medications, are commonly used to treat conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, drug addiction treatment and muscle spasms. These medications work by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm the brain and nervous system. Despite their effectiveness, benzodiazepines can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms if used for a prolonged period.
