Valium is a powerful prescription drug that is popular in the treatment of anxiety. When properly prescribed and used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, Valium is an effective tool in helping people manage their anxiety. Like many prescription drugs, Valium is a high potential for addiction, and people can abuse the drug. If not addressed, misuse of Valium can lead to full-blown addiction and have serious consequences for the user and their loved ones.
This article will delve into what Valium is and answer the question of why is Valium addictive. You will also learn the symptoms of Valium abuse and where to find professional help for Valium addiction.
What is Valium?
Commonly known by diazepam, Valium belongs to a class of prescription drugs known as benzodiazepines. Valium was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1963, with the generic version of the drug approved in 1985. Like all drugs in the benzodiazepine family, Valium is used in the treatment of anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Also, Valium is prescribed to those who have seizure disorders such as epilepsy. Additionally, Valium may also be prescribed for those suffering from the chronic abuse of alcoholism.
Valium works by facilitating the production of the neurotransmitter GABA. This neurotransmitter acts on brain areas such as the limbic system, thalamus, and hypothalamus. These areas control one’s emotions, thoughts, and memories and control autonomic functions such as breathing. Valium is inhibitory in nature, and helps people relax and feel a sense of calm and ease.
Is Valium Addictive?
You may ask, “is Valium addictive?”; the short answer is yes. Valium produces profound feelings of calm, much like alcohol. When Valium is taken, it floods the brain with increased amounts of GABA. In time, your brain will grow accustomed to the amount of Valium you take—and you will need to take more of the drug to achieve the desired effect. Eventually, Valium will take over GABA production, and your brain will stop producing the neurotransmitter. As your dependence on Valium increases, you will take the drug to function on a daily basis.
If you become addicted to Valium, the chances of overdose are ever-present. The half-life of Valium is 48 hours. The half-life of a drug is defined as the length of time it takes for half a dose to leave your system. When the effects of Valium wear off, you will still have amounts of the drug still present in your body. As you take more Valium, there is a potential for amounts of the drug to reach toxic levels and can lead to an overdose. The symptoms of Valium overdose include the following:
- Mental confusion
- Blue lips
- Lack of coordination
- Difficulty breathing
- Deep sleep
- Unresponsiveness
Because of this, it is important to seek professional help immediately.
How to Treat Valium Addiction
If you are addicted to Valium, finding professional help is crucial in restoring your physical and mental health. To recover from Valium addiction, you should undergo Valium detoxification. If you quit using the drug without medical help and supervision, you will experience psychological withdrawal symptoms that have the potential to be dangerous. These can include:
- Anxiety
- Panic
- Seizures
- Hallucinations
- Mood swings
- Suicidal thoughts
- Clouded thinking
Since Valium affects breathing, stopping Valium use suddenly can result in breathing difficulties. Withdrawal symptoms can even be life-threatening if you are abusing other substances or have underlying health issues. Under the close supervision of medical staff, you will be gradually weaned off of Valium using medications and other interventions. Once you are physically and mentally stable, you will transition into a drug treatment program.
Addiction professionals will create an individualized treatment plan that best suits your specific needs in an intensive drug treatment program. In addition to detox, this plan will include individual and group therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), family therapy, life skills training, 12-step or similar self-help group participation, and holistic therapies. Treatment will give you the tools and support you need to become confident in your newfound recovery.
After completion of treatment, it is recommended that you attend some form of aftercare such as outpatient therapy or even sober living. Aftercare programs focus on relapse prevention, and you will learn the coping skills needed to minimize the risk of relapse. You will also participate in educational workshops, continued self-help group meetings, and continued individual and group counseling.
Valium Addiction Treatment in Mexico
Valium addiction is a serious issue that requires prompt care. If you are looking for Valium addiction treatment in Mexico, call Twilight Recovery toll-free today. We are a luxury drug treatment facility that features innovative drug treatment programs that are individualized to perfectly fit your needs. In addition to Valium addiction treatment programs, we offer a wide range of programs for other substances as well as mental health services. With help from our experienced and compassionate staff, breathtaking location, and state-of-the-art amenities, you can address your addiction and recover in a safe and comfortable environment.
Take the first step in your journey towards long-term sobriety and call Twilight Recovery.