Benzodiazepine Dependence
Benzodiazepine dependence is when a person's body adapts to and becomes reliant on benzodiazepines after a period of regular use. Abruptly stopping benzodiazepines when you are dependent can be dangerous, so professional help is crucial.
Signs Of Benzodiazepine Dependence
Benzodiazepine dependence refers to the body’s physical adaptation to the drug. If a person stops using them, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. This usually occurs after taking the drug consistently for a few days to a few weeks, depending on the individual, dose, and frequency. Withdrawal symptoms can include:
Terminating the use of benzodiazepines, also called benzos, can be a lengthy process due to the dangers of suffering withdrawal symptoms, which can be fatal due to the risk of seizures. If such signs develop, help should be sought as soon as possible. Treatment involves gradual tapering under medical supervision, often with accompanying therapy and support groups.
Dependence Vs. Addiction
Dependence and addiction are distinct concepts, and they should never be used interchangeably. Addiction involves compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite harmful consequences and is characterized by the following signs:
- Increasing the dose to achieve the same effect
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when stopping or reducing use
- Continuing use despite negative consequences
- Preoccupation with obtaining and using the medication
- Difficulty functioning without the medication
- Failed attempts to quit or cut down use
Addiction is a complex mix of genetic, familial, and socioeconomic factors. While an addicted person is likely also dependent on the substance, dependence is generally not the direct cause of addiction.
Tolerance Vs. Dependence
Tolerance and dependence are related but distinct phenomena. Tolerance occurs when your body becomes less responsive to a drug over time, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect. Dependence, as mentioned earlier, involves physical adaptation to the drug’s presence.
You can develop tolerance to benzodiazepines without being dependent, and vice versa. As noted, dependence does not always occur. However, tolerance often precedes dependence. If your usual dose is not as effective as before, discuss this with your healthcare provider rather than adjusting the dose on your own.
What Causes Benzodiazepine Dependence?
In the case of benzodiazepines, dependence develops due to the drug’s effects on the brain’s GABA neurotransmitter system.
When taken regularly, benzodiazepines increase GABA activity, leading to calming effects. Over time, your brain adjusts to this enhanced GABA activity, potentially resulting in dependence. Another way of thinking about it is that the drug is replacing your natural GABA. Therefore, when you withdraw the drug, you feel the effects.
You can minimize the chances of dependence by taking into consideration the following factors that can contribute to the development of benzodiazepine dependence. Don’t be afraid to discuss each with your prescriber:
- Duration of use: Longer periods of use increase the risk of dependence
- Dosage: Higher doses are associated with a greater likelihood of dependence
- Type of benzodiazepine: Some types, particularly those with shorter half-lives, such as alprazolam, may lead to dependence more quickly
- Individual factors: Genetics, mental health conditions, and personal history can influence susceptibility to dependence similar to addiction
Benzodiazepines have their place in the treatment of mental health conditions, but they should not be looked at as a cure. They relieve symptoms of underlying conditions quickly and effectively, such as panic attacks, in the short term. To avoid problems, work needs to be done to correct the underlying cause to terminate the use of these medications as soon as possible.
Risk Factors
Before considering taking a benzodiazepine, it is a good idea to review the following list of factors that can increase your risk of developing benzodiazepine dependence. The following are things to consider:
- History of substance use disorders
- The presence of mental health conditions, particularly anxiety or depression. Treatment of anxiety is the main use of these drugs
- Chronic pain or other medical conditions requiring long-term medication use
- Age (older adults may be more susceptible to dependence)
- Concurrent use of other substances, especially alcohol or opioids
- Lack of social support
Discussing your detailed history openly and honestly with your prescriber will lessen the chances of problems developing in the future.
How Long Does It Take To Become Dependent On Benzos?
How long it takes a person to become dependent on benzos will depend on a variety of factors like the dosage, frequency, and type of benzo used. However, research has found that, with regular use, a person can become dependent on benzos within a few weeks.
A 2022 article published in the JAMA Psychiatry journal found that psychological dependence on benzodiazepines can develop in two weeks.
How Is Benzodiazepine Dependence Diagnosed?
Diagnosing benzodiazepine dependence typically involves a comprehensive evaluation. The process may include:
- Detailed medical history
- Physical examination to assess for signs of dependence or withdrawal
- Psychological evaluation to identify any other mental health conditions
- Urine or blood tests to confirm benzodiazepine use and check for other substances
- Assessment using diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5
Healthcare providers may also use specific screening tools designed to identify benzodiazepine dependence. It is important to be honest about your medication use during this process to ensure accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
How Is Benzodiazepine Dependence Treated?
Treatment of benzodiazepine dependence typically involves a gradual tapering of the medication under medical supervision. This approach is essential as there is a risk of seizure and, thus, injury and death. Some of the methods used to taper the medication are as follows:
- Gradual dose reduction: Your prescriber will create a personalized tapering schedule, slowly reducing your benzodiazepine dose over time.
- Medication substitution: Patients may be switched to a longer-acting benzodiazepine or other medications to manage symptoms may be recommended.
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), alongside other emerging therapies: These can help you develop coping strategies and address underlying issues contributing to benzodiazepine use.
- Support groups: Joining support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous can provide valuable peer support and encouragement during the recovery process.
- Addressing root causes: Treatment for any underlying mental health or medical conditions can be essential to a successful recovery.
- Lifestyle modifications: Incorporating stress reduction techniques, like exercise and increased activity are helpful. Evidence also suggests that sunlight, especially ultraviolet light, and proper sleep hygiene improve overall health.
- Ongoing monitoring: Regularly scheduling appointments, meetings, and daily routines helps ensure your plan is effective. Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider also help ensure that the treatment plan remains effective.
Remember that abruptly stopping benzodiazepine use can be dangerous and life-threatening. Always work with a healthcare professional to develop a safe and effective treatment plan.
Healthcare professionals at a licensed drug rehab can create a plan to detox and taper off benzos and assist with managing any withdrawal symptoms. A treatment center can also create an ongoing treatment plan for you to address any underlying issues or mental health conditions. Explore the rehab directory today to find a treatment center in your area.
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Get Support For Benzodiazepine Dependence
Understanding benzodiazepine dependence is crucial for anyone prescribed these medications. You can make informed decisions about your health and well-being by recognizing the signs of dependence, understanding the risks, and knowing the available treatment options.
If you are concerned about your benzodiazepine use, connect with a treatment provider at no cost today to see what options are available to you on your road to recovery. They can answer your questions about rehab and insurance coverage and get you enrolled at a licensed treatment center.
Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and with proper care and support, it is possible to overcome benzodiazepine dependence and improve your overall quality of life.