Benzodiazepines Detox: Key Steps for Safer Withdrawal

Detox or detoxification is the primary treatment for anyone seeking a drug-free life. Do you know? Benzo detox drastically reduces the risk of complications, such as overdose, seizures, relapses, and worsening of underlying mental illness. Detox can happen in an inpatient or outpatient setting. However, self-detox is NOT usually recommended. A combination of medicines and psychotherapy is the most effective treatment to manage withdrawal symptoms.

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What are Benzodiazepines

Also called Benzos, but what exactly are Benzodiazepines? Well, these are a class of drugs that slow down brain activity (CNS depressants). They are commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep problems. Examples include:
● Alprazolam (Xanax)
● Diazepam (Valium)
● Triazolam (Halcion)
● Clonazepam (Klonopin)
● Lorazepam (Ativan)
Benzos can be habit-forming and result in physical dependence and tolerance. Dependence is when you cannot function normally when you stop taking a drug, while tolerance means requiring larger doses to feel the effects of a drug. In a benzo-dependent person, reducing the dose or stopping use can cause uncomfortable symptoms called withdrawal symptoms. Most notably, some of these effects can be life-threatening. If you or anyone you love has benzo dependence, you should seek professional help at Silicon Valley Recovery to help avoid the complications.

Benzo Detox Withdrawal Symptoms

Muscle spasms

sweating

hallucinations

Depression

Moderate-to-severe physical pain

Rapid breathing

Severe cravings

Anxiety Attacks

Seizures

Loss of weight and appetite

Poor concentration

Nausea and vomiting

Sleep disturbance

Unusual sensations

Difficulty Concentrating

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Benzo Withdrawal Timeline

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can occur within 24 hours after the last use and persist for a few days to several months. Rarely, some heavy chronic users may experience the effects for a year or longer. The timeline depends on several factors, such as the type of benzo, duration of abuse, and doses. Moreover, co-existing mental issues and other diseases can affect the course of withdrawal.

Immediate Withdrawal

(Also called rebound symptoms), develop shortly after the last intake and mimic the symptoms of the condition being treated with the drug. For example, a person taking benzo for anxiety may experience anxiety soon after stopping the drug.

Acute Withdrawal

Symptoms typically begin within a few days after immediate withdrawal and can last from 1 week to 4 weeks. According to those who have undergone benzodiazepine detox, this is the most troublesome phase.

Protracted Withdrawal

Also called post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS), this phase can last a year or longer. PAWS can include sleep disturbance, anxiety, poor concentration, depression, and extreme mood swings.

How To Overcome Benzodiazepine Addiction

Once you decide to quit benzo addiction, the first person to consult is a medical professional. They will assess your condition and can refer you to a detox center. Doing this is critical to your safety and long-term recovery.

In & Outpatient Treatment

Detox centers often use a gradual tapering schedule to ease withdrawal, minimizing complications. Switching from a potent drug to a less potent benzodiazepine is another option, determined by the medical team based on individual needs. Outpatient services are suitable for those with lower complication risks, such as overdose and seizures. Individuals without co-existing mental health issues may find outpatient services particularly suitable for their needs.

Detox Medicines

In addition to tapering, your doctor may prescribe specific drugs to relieve withdrawal symptoms, including Buspirone, an anti-anxiety medicine that can alleviate emotional symptoms during withdrawal. Most notably, this drug is not habit-forming and can be used soon after tapering off the benzo doses.

Benzodiazepine Detox Therapies

Counseling and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) may be an option if your symptoms are mild and do not require medicines. CBT is a popular psychotherapy tool that teaches you how to cope with the psychological causes of your addiction. You can also use it for the long-term management of drug addiction. Most experts recommend a combination of medicines and psychotherapy, as it is more effective and likely to help maintain abstinence.

Is Self-Detox Safe for Benzo Detox ?

A warning for anyone considering self-detox!
There have been a few reports of death during benzo withdrawal in the medical literature. Even if death is uncommon, seizures can sometimes permanently damage the brain. Moreover, if you have been using large doses for prolonged periods, you should never stop the drug abruptly. Doing so can trigger potentially fatal withdrawal symptoms. In medically assisted detox, a medical team monitors your condition 24 hours a day and has resources to manage any emergent situations.

Benzo Addiction Treatment

After completing the benzo detox process, you are ready to start behavioral therapies in an inpatient rehab center, preferably in your area. Silicon Valley Recovery offers a comprehensive Benzodiazepine Detox Program to help you at every step of your recovery process.
Our center provides a range of therapies, such as:

Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Mindfulness and Stress Management
Motivational Interviewing
Family and Peer Support
Recreational, Art, and Adventure Therapy
Aftercare Support

FAQs

How to remove benzodiazepines from the body?

Gradual tapering under medical supervision is the safest method to remove benzodiazepines from the body. This process involves slowly reducing the dosage over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Supportive care, hydration, and a healthy diet can aid the process. It’s crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a personalized plan and to avoid abrupt cessation, which can be dangerous.

What medication is used for benzodiazepine withdrawal?

Medications commonly used for benzodiazepine withdrawal include long-acting benzodiazepines like diazepam or clonazepam, which help taper off the drug gradually. Other medications such as antidepressants, beta-blockers, or anticonvulsants may be prescribed to manage specific withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a tailored treatment plan.

How long does benzodiazepine detox take?

The duration of benzodiazepine detox varies depending on factors such as the specific drug used, dosage, duration of use, and individual health conditions. Generally, acute withdrawal symptoms can last from a few days to several weeks. A gradual tapering process is often recommended to minimize withdrawal effects, and full recovery may take several months.

What is the benzodiazepine withdrawal service?

The benzodiazepine withdrawal service offers support for individuals looking to reduce or stop their use of benzodiazepines. It provides personalized plans, medical supervision, and counseling to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. The service aims to ensure a gradual and monitored reduction in medication, minimizing discomfort and promoting long-term recovery.

What happens if you stop taking benzodiazepines abruptly?

Stopping benzodiazepines abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and agitation. It’s important to taper off the medication under medical supervision to minimize these risks. Withdrawal can vary in intensity and duration depending on the dosage and duration of use. Always consult a healthcare professional before making changes to your medication regimen.

Which benzo is easiest to withdraw from?

The ease of withdrawal from benzodiazepines can vary based on individual factors, but generally, shorter-acting benzodiazepines like oxazepam and temazepam may be easier to withdraw from compared to longer-acting ones like diazepam or clonazepam. This is because shorter-acting benzodiazepines leave the body more quickly, potentially leading to a shorter withdrawal period. However, medical supervision is crucial for safe withdrawal.