An addiction to valium doesn’t usually happen overnight. You may notice your family member or friend has started taking higher doses of the medicine to help alleviate anxiety but overlook it.
Eventually, though, they may begin requesting refills more and more often. They may also try to get prescriptions for valium from multiple doctors.
Usually, they have a problem with valium when the person is only focused on acquiring and taking the drug.
It’s important to learn more about valium, the benzo detox process, and how rehab centers in Ventura County can help someone with a valium addiction. Keep reading to learn more about these things.
Reasons Valium is Prescribed
Valium is typically prescribed to help reduce anxiety, prevent muscle spasms, and control seizures. However, even those with a legitimate need for this medicine may become addicted.
It can take several weeks or months for the signs of valium abuse to surface. Family members and friends need to know the “red flags” that indicate a problem.
Potential Dangers of Valium
Valium is designed to help users deal with everyday stress. Thanks to aggressive advertising campaigns created shortly after it was introduced, this drug quickly became a popular option for anyone with anxiety.
Unfortunately, many people underestimate how addictive it is. This happens because a doctor prescribes the medication.
There are even more people who aren’t aware of the potential dangers of this medication. Valium may cause convulsions and even a coma in heavy abusers.
Studies have proven that people who take valium have an increased risk of being involved in or causing car accidents. If someone tries to stop taking the medication, it can be deadly.
Valium can be even more dangerous if it is mixed with other nervous system depressants, such as Opioid painkillers and alcohol. Each of these substances has sedative qualities and can be deadly if they are taken together.
Physical Symptoms of Valium Abuse or Addiction
Valium is a tranquilizing medication. It works by slowing down the nervous system.
Signs and symptoms of addiction may reflect the suppression of nerve and brain activity. Sometimes, other body functions, like urination, digestion, heartbeat, and respiration, may be impacted by valium abuse.
Someone abusing this drug may seem drowsy all the time or be hard to wake up when they are asleep. They may also have pale skin, poor motor coordination, and shallow breathing.
Those taking this drug more often than prescribed could also have visible bruises and other injuries. Frequent accidents and falls often cause this.
Valium is considered a moderate tranquilizer when taken at lower doses. It causes impaired motor skills, drowsiness, and confusion.
If this drug is taken in higher doses, the effects are very similar to alcohol intoxication. Heavy users of this drug include:
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Poor judgment
- Muscle spasms
- Double vision
- Loss of appetite
- Difficult or painful urination
- Disorientation
- Dry mouth
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
Valium addiction can cause serious health issues. Examples include seizure activity in the brain, respiratory depression, low blood pressure, dizziness, and overdose.
If valium is mixed with sleeping pills, alcohol, or other drugs, it can create a sedating effect. In these cases, the possibility of an overdose is even higher.
Psychological and Behavioral Symptoms of Valium Abuse or Addiction
Valium was first introduced in 1963. Since then, it has become a popular and commonly prescribed medication for anxiety conditions.
Heavy users of valium may experience more intense psychological symptoms, like what originally caused them to take the drug.
Some psychological and behavioral changes related to valium abuse and addiction include:
- Irritability
- Memory issues
- Paranoia
- Restlessness
- Disorganized or irrational thinking
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Increased anxiety
If someone is addicted to valium, they may be more concerned about getting and using the medication. This is true even if it begins to impact their health or well bring.
Social isolation can occur as the user begins spending more time taking the medication or recovering after taking it. Many people who are abusing or addicted to valium neglect family and work responsibilities. They may stop engaging in activities they once enjoyed.
You may notice that the abuse or addiction has resulted in poor grooming and hygiene. People abusing this drug may also try to borrow or even steal money to get more of the drug.
Seeking Treatment at Benzo Detox Centers
The changes in a person who is abusing or addicted to valium can be significant. In some cases, they can get to the point where they endanger their lives.
Trying to withdraw from valium without trained medical support is not only uncomfortable but dangerous. Stopping valium “cold turkey” can result in rebound anxiety, seizures, and serious withdrawal symptoms.
It’s smart to talk to your loved one about the positive effects of addiction treatment in Ventura County. These services assist those who need help with prescription drug abuse or addiction.
These services provide transportation options to the facility and expedited admissions for any patient who requires substance abuse treatment. Also, the services provide therapy and support for the patient’s families.
Getting Help with Valium Abuse or Addiction
If you have a loved one or friend who is suffering from a valium addiction, don’t wait to seek help. The longer they are addicted to the substance, the more serious and dangerous the situation can become.
For those who have questions or need more information, contact our professional and helpful team at our benzo detox center in Ventura County. We can help those suffering from addiction problems and ensure they receive the treatment they need.
