Valium Addiction

Valium Addiction, and any addiction for that matter is very dangerous. People experience deadly withdrawal symptoms which can be extremely difficult to deal with. Addressing the addiction as soon as possible is advisable because of the effects it can have on the body in the future. It is advisable to consult a professional that knows what kind of treatment is best for you.

What is Valium?

It is known as the fourth most prescribed benzodiazepine used to treat panic attacks and anxiety. The generic name of the substance is known by its name, diazepam. It is a sedative that affects the neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It also works as sedation before medical procedures and can calm the brain and nerves during. Valium is a miracle drug that cures many illnesses immediately. A person should refrain from using the drug outside of its intended use though. Long-term abuse can result in an onslaught of health issues. 

How does it work?

Valium can be in the form of a tablet, liquid, and concentrated solution. The effects of the drug, when taken by mouth, will start 15 to 60 minutes after drinking it. Valium decreases the activity of the brain which controls memory, emotions, logical thoughts, and breathing. Valium also affects GABA, which strengthens the ability to relax the muscles, lessen anxiety, and drowsiness. Valium can cause addiction and overdose if a person uses a higher dosage than what is required for him or her to take.

Valium Tolerance

A person who uses a higher dosage of the drug can develop tolerance. If you seek a higher dosage, then consult your doctor before doing it. Developing tolerance over the effects of the drug not good. If the drug is not helping the person taking it as treatment, then that person may want to start thinking about quitting the drug because tolerance is a sign of addiction.

What is Valium abuse?

Valium addiction has grown in popularity over the years. Some people get an intense euphoric experience when drinking it, which results in abuse and addiction. People, who get addicted to the drug, abuse it because it eases pain, anxiety, and stress. People also use it to help themselves sleep better. The chemicals help a person become lethargic and relaxed, making sleep much easier. However, when a person abuses the drug often enough, they are sure to develop a dependency.

Listed below are some of its side effects when a person abuses Valium.

  • Drowsiness
  • Blurred Eyesight
  • Seizures
  • Rashes in the skin
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Dizziness
  • Problem with breathing
  • Slurred speech

Is Valium dangerous?

Due to the misconception that Valium is safe, people start to abuse it not knowing that they can develop an addiction. Any substance that affects the brain can be extremely dangerous because the brain is what makes the body function properly. It gets more dangerous when the drug gets mixed by alcohol or any other substance.

Listed below are some of the effects Valium addiction can have on a person:

Short term effects

Euphoria

Like most drugs that comprise psychoactive effects, people can experience intense euphoria while using this drug. This feeling itself can be extremely addictive. A person who experiences a euphoric sensation can easily become dependent on that feeling and chase that high for as long as they want.

Lack of coordination

It is the result of the chemicals that enter and spoil the brain. The normal functions of the brain get tampered with, which results in the central nervous system being damaged. This is what cause the lack of coordination for an abuser.

The feeling of being drunk

It is something common for most drug addicts. When a person gets this sensation, euphoria follows. This is alarming because of the things a person might do when getting high off the drug.

Should I stop taking it?

There are risks when a person stops abusing the drug, especially if a person develops a dependency. Withdrawal symptoms are very dangerous for a person, that’s why it is highly advisable for a person to consult a rehabilitation specialist or their doctor before cutting out the substance cold-turkey. If they stop altogether, they’ll experience severe withdrawal symptoms.  

Some withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Impatience
  • Insomnia
  • Panic attacks
  • Mood swings
  • Anxiety
  • Seizures

Who abuses Valium?

People with a seizure disorder

A patient who is diagnosed with a seizure disorder most likely develops an addiction to the drug because they are often prescribed this medication. A patient with a seizure disorder is not advisable to stop using the drug but to slowly ween off regular usage.

Healthcare Providers

People who have access to the drug are prone to addiction because they already know the effects of the drug. Although they know the risk of abusing it, the temptation of taking it is sometimes overwhelming for these individuals. 

People who can use Valium (18 years and above)

People who can have Valium have a higher percentage of abuse, especially if the drug is prescribed to them. Taking a higher dosage than what is prescribed is normal for people who have addiction issues this is because of the effects of the drug in the body.

Quitting is Possible

A person addicted to Valium must undergo an ambulatory detox program to safely assist a person in ridding themselves of dependence. It is also advisable to consult a doctor and visit an addiction treatment facility before taking a step towards quitting and starting a new life without Valium dependence. The process is tough but with the right guidance, anything is possible.

There are inpatient treatment options and outpatient treatment options in a detoxification process. Inpatient treatment requires the patient to stay in a facility for a month or one year to focus on rehabilitation and recovery from the substance, while outpatient treatment allows the patient to visit the facility during the scheduled treatment. They can enjoy a normal life while fighting for their sobriety.