Yes, benzodiazepines, commonly referred to as “benzos,” are indeed habit-forming substances, and it is possible to develop an addiction to them. This risk exists even when taking these medications exactly as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider.
Individuals with a prior history of drug or alcohol abuse face a heightened risk of developing an addiction to benzodiazepines. Prolonged use of these medications can also lead to tolerance. Tolerance means your body becomes less responsive to the drug’s effects, requiring higher doses to achieve the original therapeutic benefits. While benzodiazepines can be highly effective in treating conditions like anxiety and insomnia, their addictive potential necessitates careful usage and awareness.
Benzodiazepines are sometimes known by street names such as “Benzos” and “Downers.” Individuals who misuse drugs may abuse benzos to experience a “high.” The addictive nature of these drugs is comparable to that of opioids (like oxycodone, morphine, hydrocodone, and fentanyl), cannabinoids (marijuana), and GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate).
Abuse is prevalent among adolescents and young adults, who may crush and snort the tablets or ingest them orally to get high. Misusing benzodiazepines can lead to several adverse effects, including:
- Disturbing or vivid dreams
- Irritability
- Hostility
- Amnesia
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction is crucial. These may include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Goosebumps
- Uncontrollable leg movements
- Bone and muscle pain
Recovering from benzodiazepine addiction can be particularly challenging because these drugs alter brain chemistry. If you or someone you know is struggling with benzo addiction, seeking help from a drug addiction treatment center is essential. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines (“cold turkey”) can be dangerous due to severe withdrawal symptoms. Healthcare professionals specializing in addiction treatment can create a tapering schedule, gradually reducing the medication dosage to minimize withdrawal severity during the recovery process.
In cases of benzodiazepine overdose, the following signs and symptoms may be observed:
- Clammy skin
- Dilated pupils
- Rapid and weak pulse
- Coma
- Shallow breathing
- Death
