If you or someone you care about is considering stopping benzodiazepines (benzos) after prolonged use, understanding benzo withdrawal is essential. Withdrawal occurs when someone physically dependent on these medications reduces or stops taking them. Without proper management, this process can trigger a range of uncomfortable and potentially dangerous symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Benzodiazepines are prescribed to treat anxiety and insomnia due to their effect on GABA neurotransmitters in the brain. These drugs enhance GABA’s calming effects, reducing neuronal excitability. However, with prolonged use, the brain adapts to the presence of benzos. When you discontinue them, the brain can become overactive as it readjusts, leading to withdrawal symptoms. Individuals undergoing benzo withdrawal often experience significant anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and panic attacks. Sleep disturbances are also common, ranging from insomnia to disrupted sleep patterns.
Physical symptoms are equally prominent and can include heart palpitations, excessive sweating, tremors, headaches, and muscle stiffness. For individuals with a history of long-term benzo abuse, withdrawal symptoms can be more severe. Severe symptoms encompass hallucinations, psychosis, seizures, and suicidal thoughts. Both the psychological and physical manifestations of benzo withdrawal can be life-threatening if not appropriately managed by medical professionals.
The Benzo Withdrawal Timeline: What to Expect
The duration of benzo withdrawal is not fixed and varies based on several factors. These include the length of time benzos were used, the specific type of benzo, and individual differences in metabolism and health. Benzodiazepines with shorter half-lives, such as Xanax, Dormonoct, and Halcion, tend to be eliminated from the body faster. Withdrawal symptoms from these shorter-acting benzos may begin within hours, sometimes as early as 8 hours after the last dose. Conversely, longer-acting benzos like Valium, Klonopin, or Librium may result in withdrawal symptoms starting later, potentially up to 48 hours after cessation.
Typically, anxiety and insomnia are among the first indicators of benzo withdrawal. The withdrawal timeline progresses into a more intense phase between days one and four after the last dose. This period usually marks the peak intensity of withdrawal symptoms. Following this peak, symptoms generally begin to subside gradually over the next one to two weeks. However, for individuals using long-acting benzodiazepines, it might take up to a month for the initial acute withdrawal symptoms to resolve completely.
It’s crucial to be aware of post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). PAWS can occur after the initial withdrawal phase and involves the persistence of some withdrawal symptoms for an extended period, sometimes lasting for 12 months or even longer. PAWS refers to withdrawal symptoms that continue beyond the expected timeframe for acute withdrawal. Even after completing a drug addiction treatment program, individuals might still experience PAWS. The symptoms of PAWS can fluctuate in intensity and may include anxiety, depression, sleep problems, cognitive difficulties, and fatigue.
Managing and Shortening the Benzo Withdrawal Timeline
Due to the severity of benzo withdrawal, many individuals seek ways to expedite the process. Rapid detox methods, such as using flumazenil to accelerate benzo elimination, exist. However, these methods can intensify withdrawal symptoms and are generally not recommended. The safest and most effective approach is to manage withdrawal by gradually reducing benzo dosage over time, ideally under medical supervision. This process, known as tapering, allows the brain to slowly readjust, minimizing the severity of withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, healthcare professionals may switch individuals to longer-acting, less potent benzos like diazepam to facilitate a smoother tapering process.
Medically supervised detox in a reputable detox center offers another beneficial option. Trained medical staff can provide medications, other than benzodiazepines, to alleviate specific withdrawal symptoms and ensure patient safety and comfort. These medications can help manage anxiety, seizures, and other complications.
The fear of benzo withdrawal should not deter anyone from seeking recovery. With medically managed detoxification, the discomfort of withdrawal can be significantly reduced. Last Resort Recovery provides a supportive environment with experienced professionals who can monitor your detox process and offer treatments to minimize discomfort. Beyond detox, comprehensive therapies are essential for long-term recovery, providing individuals with the tools to maintain sobriety and overcome addiction. Contact us today to learn how we can support you through benzo detox and on your journey to recovery.
