The brain chemistry is actually altered while taking benzos regularly, so the safest and comfortable way to get off of them is to wean off. It is dangerous to quit taking benzos cold turkey, as the brain has become dependent on the drug and can have a hard time coping without the drug at first.
BENZO WITHDRAWAL INSOMNIA HELP PROFESSIONAL
It’s important to continue to seek professional support during this time to keep from falling prey to relapse. These tend to be more psychological symptoms like depression, anxiety, and continued cravings, and insomnia. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) may linger on the past two weeks up to several months. Rebound anxiety can certainly be present in this stage, but overall, by the end of two weeks, most, if not all, of the withdrawal symptoms will be better or gone. Some symptoms will linger on through the second week, especially for those who have become dependent on the longer-acting benzos. Days 8-14īy the time week two comes around, most people report the worst is over. By day four or five, some of the symptoms will be letting up. Cravings may be intense at the beginning of this phase, so it’s important to have support to help one not give in. Common withdrawal symptoms include mental and emotional confusion, increased anxiety, nausea, insomnia, irritability, cravings, and sensitivity to sound. Some withdrawal symptoms will peak during these days, with the severity oftentimes depending on the type of benzo and strength of the dosage. Other symptoms include loss of appetite, nausea. This means that the anxiety or sleeplessness that was first treated may surface again. In the first couple of days, there may be some “rebound” anxiety and insomnia that occurs. For the longer-acting benzos, like Valium, symptoms usually present within one to two days. Those that are taking short-acting benzos like Xanax, Ativan, or Restoril, may begin to experience symptoms within as little as eight hours. Physicians state that a taper or weaning off the benzo should always be conducted, as abrupt cessation is dangerous and can be deadly. The worst of withdrawal symptoms will occur within the first week coming off of them. Method of ingestion (tablet, snorting, etc.).Whether or not there are other mental health conditions.Whether or not other drugs are being abused, such as alcohol.Short-acting benzos like Xanax tend to cause more intense symptoms. Higher dosages tend to cause more intense symptoms. The duration and severity of withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on various factors like: Not everyone experiences withdrawal in the same way or in the same time frame. What Are the Stages of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Timeline? More serious symptoms commonly associated with those on high doses of benzos are: The following are typical benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms:
When someone becomes dependent on a benzodiazepine, withdrawal symptoms occur when trying to come off of the drug. What Are Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Symptoms? Stopping benzos abruptly is very dangerous, and should always be done slowly with a taper method under a physician’s care. They’re supposed to only be used as a short-term solution for medical conditions, as long-term use can turn into a high likelihood for dependence and addiction.Īddiction may set in as well, which can make it challenging to come off the drug due to the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that may arise. Essentially, they work by cooling off the “fight or flight” reaction, bringing a sense of calm and peace. Fortunately, there are prescriptions like benzodiazepines that can help those who struggle with such.īenzodiazepines are widely prescribed psychiatric medications for a variety of mental health issues like anxiety disorders, as well as medical conditions like insomnia and seizures.Ĭommonly known as “benzos”, the FDA has approved 15 various types of benzos, with the following being the most common:īenzos work by increasing the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which depresses the central nervous system. If you’ve ever struggled with high anxiety, panic attacks, or insomnia, then you understand how debilitating such conditions can be.
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