Valium Addiction

What is Valium and Is it Addictive?

Valium is a brand-name prescription drug that belongs to the drug class benzodiazepine, also known as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. It is believed that excessive nerve activity could be the cause of anxiety.

Studies have shown Valium increases the effectiveness of a neurotransmitter that suppresses the activity of nerves. This makes Valium a good option for those suffering from anxiety and panic attacks. Valium has also proven effective for those who experience muscle spasms and seizures.

Unlike other benzos, such as Xanax or Ativan, with short half-lives, Valium (as well as Klonopin) has a longer half-life, so it stays active in the body longer. Some may start taking Valium for legitimate reasons but, due to its addictive qualities, find themselves abusing it.

Valium Prescriptions

Valium is typically used to treat anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, stiffness, and seizures. This medication is sometimes used to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Prescription Valium is known as:

• Valium (brand name)
• Diazepam (generic)

Side Effects of Valium Use

Valium begins working in 30 to 60 minutes and can last 1–3 hours in the body. Because of its longer half-life, its effects can be felt for much longer, which could interfere with daily life if taken in excess.

There are many side effects you can expect from Valium.

Short-Term Effects of Valium

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Blurred vision
• Feeling tired
• Muscle weakness
• Balance issues
• Nausea
• Memory problems

Long-Term Effects of Valium

• Heart muscle disease
• Sleep disorders
• Anxiety
• Mania
• Psychosis
• Depression

Valium Abuse and Addiction

Unfortunately, drug abuse and benzos like Valium can go hand-in-hand—access to the drug is very easy, and its intoxicating effects can quickly become addictive when used for long periods. Valium is typically only prescribed for as-needed use or short periods.

Valium use longer than 4 months is generally discouraged but not necessarily enforced by physicians. If you’re already struggling with drug abuse or substance use disorder, you may be more at risk of becoming addicted to Valium.

Signs of Valium Addiction

It can be challenging to identify Valium addiction, as its effects can be a huge relief to those suffering from intense anxiety.

The following behaviors are warning signs to look out for if you suspect Valium abuse is occurring with a loved one or even yourself:

• Change in behavior and performance at work or school
• High drug tolerance (needing larger doses to achieve the same effect)
• Strong cravings and physical dependence on the drug
• Withdrawal symptoms when the drug is reduced or stopped
• Spending excessive time obtaining, using, or recovering from the drug
• Prioritizing Valium over activities you previously enjoyed
• Valium overdose

Valium Overdose

Symptoms of a Valium overdose may include:

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Slowed breathing and heartbeat
• Loss of consciousness
• Seizure
• Death

If you suspect someone is experiencing a Valium overdose, it’s important to call 911 immediately and stay with the person until help arrives. Acting quickly in an overdose can mean the difference between life and death.

Valium Withdrawal Symptoms

Benzos are notorious for having serious withdrawal symptoms, and Valium is no exception.

Due to the sometimes life-threatening nature of these symptoms, it’s recommended that you quit under the supervision of a healthcare provider to ensure you are safely weaned off Valium.

Valium withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Tremors
• Abdominal and muscle cramps
• Vomiting
• Sweating
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Extreme anxiety
• Insomnia
• Confusion
• Irritability
• Hallucinations
• Seizures

Valium Addiction Treatment Options

Identifying and treating drug addiction to Valium is no easy task, but it’s very possible with the support of loved ones and the right treatment center. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in your addiction, and many providers are ready to help you find recovery.

The sooner you find help, the more likely you are to avoid the long-term damage Valium abuse can cause.

Detoxing From Valium

If you’re planning on quitting Valium, it’s highly recommended you taper off the drug under the supervision of a healthcare provider to ensure your safety during the process. Some withdrawal symptoms can be very dangerous if left untreated, so ensure you have a plan if more severe withdrawal symptoms present themselves.

Valium Treatment Programs

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment program for Valium. Each addict has a different journey, whether they started as someone struggling with mental illness who was prescribed Valium or someone who bought it off a dealer.

With that in mind, several inpatient and outpatient treatment options are available to help you quit the drug safely. These different programs will also offer cognitive behavioral therapy and/or support groups to help you identify what led to the addictive behavior and how to move forward with drug-free living.

Inpatient Rehab for Valium Addiction

An inpatient rehab program is designed for those with a heavy addiction to Valium.

An inpatient facility is a 24/7 addiction center where you can receive around-the-clock support. Typically, this is a 30-to-90-day program.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

The PHP is a great option for those who may not need a live-in rehab solution. Through a PHP, you will receive medical care (such as medical detox), behavioral therapy, and support.

This program allows you to return to work or home throughout the week.

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

This program is ideal for someone with a less serious addiction or transitioning out of a more intensive program.

The IOP allows the recovering addict to return for medical check-ups, drug screening, and additional therapy to help them remain abstinent from Valium.

Valium Abuse Statistics

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the number of people who reported ever using diazepam for non-medical purposes declined from more than 13 million in 2012 to under 12.5 million in 2013.

That same study shows that diazepam is the 3rd most widely abused tranquilizer in the US, behind alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan).

Support for Friends and Family Members Hooked on Valium

Watching a loved one struggle with substance abuse can be heart-wrenching, especially if it was initially prescribed to offer them relief from mental illness. While your first instinct is to help them, it’s also important to help yourself.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or helpless because of a loved one who’s abusing Valium, make sure you take time for yourself and even consider seeking out a professional to speak to.

Get Help for Valium Addiction

If you have become addicted to Valium, help is available: Learn more about treatment and therapy options for Valium addiction.