Tag: Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, commonly known as “benzos,” are prescription medications that help manage conditions like anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. While they can be very effective in treating symptoms temporarily, they carry a high risk for addiction and serious side effects—which makes it extra important to intervene early and prevent long-term harm. We explore the medical uses of benzodiazepines, their addiction risks, and the steps to recovery if you’ve become dependent.

Clinical Uses of Benzodiazepines

Managing Anxiety and Panic Disorders

Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed for short-term relief from anxiety and panic disorders. Medications like Xanax, Ativan, and Valium work quickly to calm overwhelming feelings of anxiety or panic by promoting relaxation. Unlike antidepressants which are taken regularly over a period of time, anxiety medications are usually prescribed to be used as needed.¹ Because of their addictive potential, they’re generally intended for short-term use.

Treating Insomnia and Sleep Disorders

Benzos are also commonly used to treat insomnia and other sleep issues. Medications like Restoril (Temazepam) help people fall asleep faster, which can be a relief for those who struggle with chronic sleep problems. The quality of sleep, however, may not be the same. Family medicine doctor Eric Matheson explains in an article in the American Family Physician (AFP) Journal:

Beyond the immediate effects, chronic benzodiazepine use disrupts the quality of sleep² by distorting sleep architecture and diminishing deep sleep time, which may account for the fact that persons who take long-term benzodiazepines report much greater fatigue than self-reported good sleepers.

As with anxiety treatments, the risk of dependency is real—especially if you start relying on these medications every night. That’s why, Matheson says, “Behavioral interventions are the mainstay of treatment for insomnia.” And, “if benzodiazepines are prescribed, they should be used for the shortest possible time³ at the lowest possible dose.”

Other Therapeutic Applications

Benzodiazepines are also used to manage a range of other conditions aside from anxiety and sleep disorders. For example, they can help control seizures, reduce muscle spasms, and ease symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. In these cases, benzos can be life-saving. But long-term use can still lead to tolerance and addiction if your treatment plan isn’t managed very carefully.

Neurochemical Effects of Benzodiazepines

Mechanism of Action in the Brain

Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of a brain chemical called GABA. GABA’s role is to slow down brain activity,⁴ which is why benzos are so effective at reducing anxiety, calming panic attacks, and promoting sleep. They’re a sedative for the brain.

Impact on Neurotransmitter Systems

While the immediate effects are calming, long-term benzo use alters brain chemistry. Over time, the brain becomes dependent on benzodiazepines to maintain its normal function. This is how tolerance develops: you need higher doses to feel the same effects. This “rewiring” of the brain is what makes quitting any addictive substance so difficult without help.

Benzos, however, pose a particularly insidious risk. Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz “link benzo use to long-term neurological complications” in a syndrome they call BIND: benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction.⁵ These complications include brain injury, job loss, and suicidal ideation. More than half of the 1,207 benzodiazepine users studied reported suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide. 

Side Effects of Benzodiazepines

Benzos have been hugely popular for decades because of their fast-acting calming effects. But a growing body of research points to some seriously concerning side effects. Pharmacology researchers warn that benzodiazepines’ “side effects and toxicity⁶ can result in morbidity and mortality for some patients,” and that “For any patient taking a [benzo], the prescribing physician must carefully evaluate the risks and benefits, and higher-risk patients require careful considerations.” 

Short-Term Effects

In the short term, side effects of benzos include drowsiness, dizziness, respiratory depression, and impaired coordination. These are why benzodiazepines come with warnings not to drive or operate heavy machinery. Other common side effects include confusion, blurry vision, and trouble concentrating.

Long-Term Effects

When used for extended periods, benzodiazepines have more serious effects.⁷ Long-term users often experience cognitive impairment, emotional numbness (also known as emotional blunting), and memory issues. Benzos slow down brain function, making it harder to think clearly, concentrate, and remember things. Over half of the participants in the CU Anschutz study reported symptoms lasting over a year: 

• Low energy
• Trouble focusing
• Memory loss
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Sensitivity to light and sounds
• Digestive problems
• Symptoms triggered by food and drink
• Muscle weakness 
• Body pain

“Particularly alarming,” the study adds, “these symptoms were often reported as new and distinct from the symptoms for which benzodiazepines were originally prescribed.” That is, the benzos themselves created conditions where none existed before.

Long-term benzo use can also have toxic side effects, including “impaired liver and/or kidney function”⁸ due to their accumulation in the body.

Memory Impairment and Cognitive Issues

Prolonged benzo use is linked to significant memory problems. Some people have difficulty forming new memories, and others may struggle with remembering things they once knew well. This is especially true for episodic memory, and even more so for people who drink heavily while taking benzos. Many people also find it harder to concentrate.

It’s possible to experience side effects of benzos even when taking them as prescribed.⁹ One study reports that “specific deficits in visuospatial ability and sustained attention have also been described in patients who have taken therapeutic doses of benzodiazepines regularly for longer than one year.” 

Emotional Blunting and Psychomotor Effects

Many people who take benzos long-term find that it numbs their emotions, making it harder to feel the range of feelings that colors human life—a term some behavioral scientists call “emotional anesthesia.” While feeling less emotion might sound like a relief for someone who often experiences them intensely, it also means they’re missing opportunities to learn healthy skills like processing and regulation. 

Interestingly, there is evidence that high-dose benzo use can increase depression:¹⁰ 

Some evidence indicates that higher benzodiazepine dosages are associated with an increased risk of depression and that reducing the dosage or discontinuing therapy may resolve the depressive symptoms. 

Benzos also slow psychomotor functions, which affects physical coordination and reaction time.

Benzodiazepine Addiction and Misuse

Risk Factors for Addiction

Benzos generally pose a high addiction risk. According to the AFP Journal,

The risk of developing physical dependence to benzodiazepines is high; 15% to 40% of long-term users report severe withdrawal symptoms after cessation.¹¹

Several risk factors make someone more likely to misuse benzos and develop an addiction. These might include: 

• Taking benzos for a longer time 
• Having a history of substance abuse 
• Dealing with mental health issues like depression or anxiety

Using benzos in higher doses than prescribed, or mixing them with other substances like alcohol or opioids, further increases addiction risk.

Tolerance Development

As the body gets used to benzodiazepines, it requires higher doses to feel the same effects. This is known as tolerance. Over time, someone who initially takes a low dose to manage an anxiety disorder may need much more to feel calm or relaxed. This can quickly spiral into dependence, where the body needs the drug to function normally.

Psychological Factors

Benzodiazepine misuse and addiction are often linked to psychological factors like stress, trauma, and other untreated mental health concerns. Some people turn to benzos to self-medicate, hoping to ease symptoms like anxiety, depression, or panic attacks. But while they may provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root causes of mental health conditions—and eventually, they only make things worse.

Co-Occurring Disorders

A lot of people who misuse benzodiazepines have co-occurring mental health disorders like depression, PTSD, or bipolar disorder. Living with these challenges can drive someone to use benzos to self-medicate or escape their feelings—whether or not they recognize the addiction risk. Co-occurring disorders are complex conditions. If this is a concern for you, look for a specialized treatment program that can treat addiction and mental health at the same time.

Signs of Benzodiazepine Misuse

Behavioral Indicators

There are several behavioral signs that someone may be misusing benzos: 

• “Doctor shopping,” seeing multiple doctors to get prescriptions
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Acting secretively 
• Neglecting their responsibilities
• Withdrawing socially 

Physical Symptoms

Physical signs of benzodiazepine abuse include:

• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Poor coordination
• Blurred vision 
• Headaches 
• Constantly feeling tired or “out of it” 

Psychological Manifestations

Psychologically, benzodiazepine misuse and addiction can cause: 

• Mood swings
• Paranoia
• Heightened anxiety
• Depression

It’s ironic, but the very drugs prescribed to reduce anxiety can, over time, make anxiety much worse. Benzos are known to cause rebound anxiety¹²—an increase in anxiety from stopping use. This is especially true if they’re used incorrectly.

Withdrawal Management

Understanding Withdrawal Symptoms

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be severe and even dangerous. The National Institute on Drug Addiction describes benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome:¹³

Physiological dependence on benzodiazepines is accompanied by a withdrawal syndrome which is typically characterized by sleep disturbance, irritability, increased tension and anxiety, panic attacks, hand tremor, sweating, difficulty in concentration, dry wretching and nausea, some weight loss, palpitations, headache, muscular pain and stiffness and a host of perceptual changes.

People usually notice rebound anxiety and insomnia within the first few days, followed by full withdrawals for up to 2 weeks. Withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines can last for far longer and usually require professional treatment. Because of the risks involved, it’s always important to detox from benzos under medical supervision.

Tapering Protocols

The safest way to come off benzodiazepines is by gradually tapering. This means slowly reducing the dose over time to minimize withdrawal symptoms. Going “cold turkey,” or stopping benzodiazepines abruptly, can be highly dangerous and is not recommended. A qualified professional should manage this process. 

How quickly you can taper off benzos¹⁴ depends on a variety of factors, says the Oregon Health Authority: 

There is no evidence for a one-size-fits-all approach to tapering benzodiazepines. The rate of taper will depend on the severity of withdrawal symptoms, which are influenced by several factors: the original dose, type, potency, duration of action and length of use of the benzodiazepine; the reason the benzodiazepine was originally prescribed; and the personality and individual vulnerability of the patient, their lifestyle, personal stresses and past experiences, and the degree of social support during the taper.

Tapering can take as little as 2 weeks or as long as a year or more. 

Medical Supervision and Support

Medical detox programs help you manage benzo withdrawal symptoms in a controlled, supervised environment. Doctors, nurses, and addiction-specialized therapists monitor your progress and provide support to make sure the withdrawal process is as safe and comfortable as possible. Some rehabs even have detox centers on-site, making it easy to transition directly into inpatient addiction treatment. 

Treatment Options

Medication-Assisted Treatment

In some cases, treatment specialists use medications to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Substitution or maintenance therapy¹⁵ can help people with more severe dependencies, or serious mental health concerns, taper off benzos without destabilizing themselves too severely. For long-term recovery, these treatments should be part of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan.

Psychotherapy

Therapy plays a huge role in long-term benzo addiction recovery. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and other talk therapies can help you understand and change the thought patterns and behaviors that play a role in your addiction. Other approaches, like process groups and holistic treatments, offer additional avenues for working through addiction by accessing different parts of the brain. In general, psychotherapies teach long-term coping strategies that help you address the underlying reasons for addiction and prevent relapse in the future. 

Support Groups and Behavioral Therapies

Support groups offer a sense of community and shared experience that keep you on track through the challenges of recovery. These can include Narcotics Anonymous (NA), other 12-Step programs, or non-12-Step alternatives.

A Path to Recovery From Benzodiazepine Misuse

Benzodiazepine use disorder is a serious issue. But recovery is entirely possible with the right combination of medical support, therapy, and ongoing care. If you or someone you love is struggling with benzo addiction, get help as early as possible. Recognizing the signs of misuse and reaching out to a professional can make all the difference. 

Start exploring your benzodiazepine addiction treatment options today and discover why recovery is a journey worth taking.

Xanax, a prescription medication that’s often used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, can be a helpful tool when you use it responsibly under medical supervision. But its potential for misuse and addiction raises concerns among healthcare providers and those looking for solutions for acute anxiety. We explore what Xanax is, how and why people use it incorrectly, and the addiction risks involved, plus treatment options for those seeking help.

What Is Xanax?

Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication that’s part of the benzodiazepine family. It’s often prescribed to treat anxiety or panic disorders because it helps calm the mind and body. Xanax is also “sometimes used to treat depression,¹ fear of open spaces (agoraphobia), and premenstrual syndrome.” It’s usually prescribed by medical professionals who are licensed to evaluate and treat conditions like anxiety and panic disorders. These include primary care physicians, psychiatrists, nurse practitioners, addiction medicine specialists, and pain management specialists.

Because Xanax has a high potential for abuse, prescribers are cautious about certain risk factors:

• Any history of substance use disorders
• Monitoring for signs of dependency
• Encouraging therapy or other non-benzodiazepine strategies for long-term management

It’s best to take Xanax as part of a medication management plan under the guidance of a qualified medical professional.

How Does Xanax Work?

Xanax works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down nerve signals in the brain. By boosting GABA activity, Xanax reduces symptoms of anxiety, helps with sleep, and helps you feel relaxed. It’s fast-acting, which makes it especially effective for acute anxiety episodes.

Xanax “comes as a tablet,² an extended-release tablet, an orally disintegrating tablet (tablet that dissolves quickly in the mouth), and a concentrated solution (liquid) to take by mouth.”

Why Is Xanax Misused?

Xanax use often begins with a desire for relief from stress, insomnia, or emotional distress. But whether or not they have a prescription, people misuse Xanax for a lot of reasons. Some might take more than prescribed to feel calmer, while others may use it recreationally for the sense of relaxation or euphoria it can provide. Sometimes, people combine Xanax with other substances, like alcohol, to intensify the effects—which can be extremely dangerous. Misuse often starts because of:

• Stress relief: People often self-medicate to cope with anxiety, stress, or their inability to sleep.
• Tolerance: Over time, the body gets used to Xanax, so people need higher doses to get the same effect.
• Fear of withdrawal: Xanax can cause uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which causes many people to keep taking it even when they want to stop.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) explains,

Alprazolam may be habit forming.³ Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer time than your doctor tells you to. Tell your doctor if you have ever drunk large amounts of alcohol, if you use or have ever used street drugs, or have overused prescription medications. Do not drink alcohol or use street drugs during your treatment. Drinking alcohol or using street drugs during your treatment with alprazolam also increases the risk that you will experience these serious, life-threatening side effects. Also tell your doctor if you have or have ever had depression or another mental illness.

How Is Xanax Abused?

People abuse Xanax in a number of ways, including: 

• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Taking it more frequently than prescribed
• Using it without a prescription
• Crushing and snorting pills to feel the effects more quickly
• Combining Xanax with other substances like alcohol or opioids to heighten its effects (a dangerous practice that significantly increases the risk of overdose)

Taking Xanax in ways other than prescribed or mixing it with other substances can have unpredictable and potentially life-threatening consequences. 

Xanax Statistics

Xanax misuse isn’t rare. In fact, it’s a growing problem:

• Nearly 12.5% of U.S. adults use benzodiazepines⁴ like Xanax, and about 17% of them misuse these medications.
• About 30% of opioid overdose deaths also involve benzodiazepines⁵ like Xanax.
• Benzos are involved in over 200,000 emergency room visits⁶ annually. Over half of these are from nonmedical use.

These numbers show just how serious Xanax misuse has become—and why it’s so important to understand the risks.

How Addictive Is Xanax?

Xanax is highly addictive, especially when compared to other prescription drugs. Its effects are strong and fast, which makes it more likely for people to develop a dependency. This can happen over even a short amount of time. The NIH explains how Xanax dependence sets in: 

Alprazolam may cause a physical dependence⁷ (a condition in which unpleasant physical symptoms occur if a medication is suddenly stopped or taken in smaller doses), especially if you take it for several days to several weeks.

What makes Xanax so addictive?

• Short-lasting effects: Xanax works quickly but wears off fast, which can make you want more.
• Feel-good effects: The sense of calm it provides can be hard to give up, especially if the cause of your anxiety persists.
• Tolerance: As your body adjusts, you might want to take larger doses, which increases your risk of addiction.

Signs of Xanax Addiction

If you’re worried about your relationship with Xanax, look for these warning signs:

Behavioral Indicators

• Taking more Xanax than you were prescribed or using it without a prescription
• Seeing multiple doctors to get extra prescriptions (a practice called “doctor shopping”)
• Avoiding your responsibilities at work, school, or home
• Acting secretive or withdrawing from your social circle

Physical Symptoms

• Constant drowsiness or feeling sedated
• Slurred speech or trouble staying balanced
• Constantly feeling tired or weak
• Muscle aches and tremors

Psychological Effects

• Feeling anxious, irritable, or panicked when you don’t have Xanax
• Cognitive impairments like trouble concentrating or memory lapses
• Depression or mood swings
• Craving Xanax even when you know it’s causing problems in your life

Risks of Xanax Misuse and Addiction

Addiction isn’t the only risk of Xanax use—it can also seriously affect your physical and mental health.

Overdose 

Xanax slows down your central nervous system, which controls vital functions like breathing and heart rate. Taking too much—or mixing it with other substances like alcohol—can cause your breathing to slow to dangerous levels, increasing the risk of overdose.

Withdrawal Effects

If you’re dependent on Xanax, stopping suddenly is dangerous. It can cause severe withdrawal symptoms that include seizures, panic attacks, and insomnia. Quitting “cold turkey” without medical help is risky—it’s hugely important to taper off under a doctor’s supervision. The NIH warns,

Do not stop taking this medication or take fewer doses without talking to your doctor. Stopping alprazolam suddenly⁸ can worsen your condition and cause withdrawal symptoms that may last for several weeks to more than 12 months. Your doctor probably will decrease your alprazolam dose gradually. Call your doctor or get emergency medical treatment if you experience any of the following symptoms: unusual movements; ringing in your ears; anxiety; memory problems; difficulty concentrating; sleep problems; seizures; shaking; muscle twitching; changes in mental health; depression; burning or prickling feeling in hands, arms, legs or feet; seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear; thoughts of harming or killing yourself or others; overexcitement; or losing touch with reality.

Not all doctors are trained in addiction-related care; it’s best to talk to a medical professional who has experience helping patients taper off benzodiazepines.

Long-Term Health Consequences

Prolonged Xanax drug abuse can lead to:

• Memory and focus problems: Over time, Xanax impairs cognitive functions like concentration and recall.
• Physical dependence: Your body can become so reliant on Xanax that it’s hard to function without it.
• Emotional instability: Xanax misuse can worsen anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions over time.

Treatment for Xanax Addiction

The good news? Xanax addiction is treatable, and there are plenty of resources to help you recover. Effective treatment for Xanax addiction typically involves a combination of medical intervention, therapy, and ongoing support.

Detox

The first step is detox, where the body gets rid of Xanax. Because withdrawal can be intense, it’s important to do this under medical supervision. Usually, your doctor will taper the dose slowly to make the process safer and more manageable.

Learn more about the detox process here. 

Therapy and Counseling

Therapy plays a big role in recovery, and can help you learn longer-term strategies for addressing the root cause of your anxiety and managing it without Xanax.

• Behavioral therapies help you identify and change the thought patterns that lead to misuse.
• Individual counseling is a safe space to work through personal struggles related to addiction.
• Group therapy provides support from others who are going through the same thing.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

In some cases, your doctor might prescribe other medications to manage withdrawal symptoms or address co-occurring mental health issues.

Aftercare and Ongoing Support

Long-term recovery often involves a combination of continuing care approaches, such as:

• Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider
• Outpatient addiction treatment 
• Ongoing individual therapy
• Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA)

Find a Treatment Center

If you want to stop using Xanax but are having a hard time doing so on your own, finding the right treatment facility is a great step toward recovering safely and effectively.

Rehabs offer personalized addiction treatment programs that are tailored to your needs, a combination of therapies to address underlying issues, and resources for long-term recovery. Many also have medical detox facilities on-site, or can help you arrange detox prior to starting treatment.

Explore benzodiazepine addiction treatment options to find a facility near you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Xanax Misuse and Addiction

What makes Xanax so addictive?

Xanax is highly addictive due to its fast-acting, short-lasting effects, which can create a cycle of dependency. Over time, as tolerance builds, people often feel they need higher doses for the same relief. This increases the risk of benzodiazepine addiction, especially if you’re taking Xanax without medical supervision.

How can Xanax withdrawal be managed safely?

Xanax withdrawal should always be managed under medical supervision. Gradual tapering, as directed by a healthcare provider, reduces the risk of severe symptoms like seizures, panic attacks, or insomnia. Detox programs also offer safe and effective support.

What are the risks of mixing Xanax with alcohol?

Mixing Xanax with alcohol can severely depress the central nervous system, leading to slowed breathing, impaired coordination, and increased risk of overdose. This combination is extremely dangerous and should always be avoided.

Valium, or diazepam, is a widely recognized prescription medication that’s mainly used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, and sometimes seizures. Although it’s highly effective for certain conditions, this strong benzodiazepine also has the potential to cause dependency and addiction, especially if it’s not used as prescribed. We explore what Valium is used for, how it works, its adverse effects, and addiction potential, plus how to tell if your Valium use is becoming a problem. 

What Is Valium?

Valium is a brand name for diazepam, one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines¹ (“benzos”) in the U.S. This class of medications is used for its calming properties. Doctors might prescribe Valium for: 

• Anxiety 
• Insomnia
• Panic disorders 
• Muscle tension or spasms
• Seizures or convulsive disorders 
• Restless leg syndrome
• Withdrawals from other substances (usually alcohol or opioids)

Benzos are also sometimes used to help patients relax before medical or dental procedures,² especially if they have very bad anxiety in medical settings. They might also be used to keep patients sedated after an operation. Valium is usually prescribed to treat acute symptoms temporarily and is not meant to be used long-term.  

Diazepam has been hugely popular³ since its introduction in the ‘50s, largely because of widespread applications and its fast-acting calming effects. 

In the U.S., Valium is a Schedule IV controlled substance,⁴ which the DEA considers “drugs with a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence.”

How Valium Works

Valium affects the brain and body by interacting with GABA, a naturally occurring brain chemical⁵ that calms the nervous system. GABA reduces the brain’s excitement levels, creating feelings of sedation and relaxation. Valium enhances GABA’s effect by binding to certain receptors in the brain, which is why it’s so effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and muscle tension.

When you take Valium as prescribed, its impact is usually manageable. But Valium can be used recreationally at higher doses because of its relaxing effects. Over time, this leads to addiction, as the brain starts to depend on Valium to feel “normal.”

Depending on what your doctor recommends, you might take Valium only as needed,⁶ or regularly for a period of time. As with any prescription medication, you should take Valium according to a treatment plan that’s designed, managed, and revised as needed by a qualified clinical professional. 

Side Effects of Valium 

The most concerning adverse effects of Valium are respiratory depression. Diazepam can have side effects⁷ that range from relatively mild to very serious: 

• Sedation
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Depression
• Irritability
• Headache
• Tremor
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Changes in sex drive
• Menstrual irregularities
• Respiratory depression
• Suicidality
• Cardiovascular collapse

*Paraphrased from “Diazepam,” StatPearls, National Library of Medicine.

Why Valium Is Misused

Valium abuse can happen for various reasons. These are some of the most common reasons why people take Valium in ways other than prescribed: 

Self-Medication

Some people who aren’t prescribed Valium still use it as a way to relieve their anxiety or manage chronic stress. Unsurprisingly, people who are trying to self-medicate anxiety tend to choose substances like Valium⁸ that slow brain function and help them relax. They may not realize how risky it is to take a potent benzodiazepine without medical guidance.

Recreational Use

The relaxing, euphoric effects of Valium can make it appealing to those who want to “escape” or feel detached from the pressures of their day-to-day life. Recreational Valium use often involves taking higher doses, which significantly increases the risk of dependency.

Prescription Overuse

Even people who are prescribed Valium can misuse it if they start taking higher doses or continue to use it after their treatment period ends.

Signs of Valium Misuse

Recognizing the signs of Valium misuse can help prevent dependency from progressing into a full-on addiction. Signs can be both behavioral and psychological, and early detection often leads to better outcomes.

Behavioral Indicators

• Taking higher doses: Increasing your doses beyond what’s prescribed or taking Valium without a prescription are strong signs of misuse.
• Frequent refills or “doctor shopping:” Getting multiple prescriptions or visiting multiple doctors to get more Valium than you need can indicate dependency.
• Loss of interest: People who misuse Valium may become detached from social activities, work, or hobbies they used to enjoy.

Psychological Signs

• Mood swings: Misusing Valium can cause unpredictable mood changes, from moments of calm to sudden agitation or irritability.
• Increased secrecy: Often, people hiding a dependency on Valium will act secretive about their drug use, making excuses or isolating themselves to prevent others from finding out.

Is Valium Addictive?

Yes, Valium can be addictive, especially when used for longer periods or in high doses. Several factors add to its addictive potential:

Duration of Use

The longer you use Valium (even when following dosage guidelines) the more likely you are to develop a tolerance, which can then lead to dependence. This is why doctors generally don’t recommend using Valium for more than 4 weeks.⁹ Valium has addictive potential even when it’s taken as prescribed. Per the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 

Benzodiazepines, such as diazepam, are often used for short periods of time only. They may produce emotional and/or physical dependence (addiction) even when used as recommended.¹⁰

Dosage

A higher amount of Valium also increases the risk of addiction. Excessive use can cause dependency as your brain begins to rely on Valium to feel normal.

Symptoms of Valium Addiction

Addiction progresses over time, and recognizing its symptoms early on can help you address the situation before it worsens. Valium addiction shows up via physical and emotional symptoms that can be easy to spot if you know what to look for.

Physical Symptoms

While generally considered safe for short-term, doctor-supervised use, experts agree that “chronic diazepam use¹¹ is associated with tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal.”

• Tolerance: Over time, you may feel like you need increasingly higher doses of Valium to feel the same effects.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Once you’re dependent on Valium, suddenly stopping can cause physical symptoms like muscle pain, nausea, or seizures.

Emotional and Psychological Symptoms

• Anxiety and depression: In a phenomenon called rebound anxiety,¹² Valium addiction often worsens the same symptoms it initially relieved (like anxiety and depression).
• Loss of interest and motivation: The intense cravings and mood changes associated with Valium addiction can drain a person’s energy and motivation, leading to social isolation.

Risks and Dangers of Valium Misuse

Valium is a strong drug that can have serious consequences. Long-term Valium misuse can lead to severe cognitive and memory impairments. Persistent misuse also heightens the risk of accidents, injuries, and the loss of relationships and employment due to changes in mood and behavior. Neuroscientists explain the adverse effects of Valium:¹³ 

More moderate adverse effects from chronic diazepam use include amnesia, dizziness, ataxia, confusion, sedation, depression, and tachycardia. Also, worsening of seizures or anxiety can occur in some patients being treated for epilepsy or anxiety disorders…The most common fatal events are respiratory arrest and prolonged seizures resulting from prolonged habitual use, rather than acute overdose.

Withdrawals 

Withdrawing from benzos like Valium can be dangerous. If you plan to stop using Valium, it’s important to do so with the help of a qualified, addiction-specialized medical professional. NAMI advises:

Do not stop taking diazepam or change your dose¹⁴ without talking to your health care provider first. Stopping diazepam abruptly may result in one or more of the following withdrawal symptoms: trouble sleeping, anxiety, irritability, nausea, tremor, dizziness, blood pressure changes, rapid heart rate, and seizures. Withdrawal reactions may occur when dosage reduction occurs for any reason.

Overdose 

Misusing Valium increases the risk of overdose. This risk is heightened if you mix Valium with other depressants like alcohol or opioids. “The use of diazepam with opioid medications¹⁵ has led to serious side effects including slowed and difficulty breathing and death,” says NAMI. Both benzos and opioids depress the central nervous system (CNS), and these sedative effects multiply when they’re taken together.   

Statistics on Valium Misuse and Addiction

Valium misuse has become a serious issue in the U.S. and around the world. Over 30 million adults in the U.S. use diazepam¹⁶ in a given year, and addiction researchers estimate that around 17% of those who take Valium misuse it. 

In recent years, benzodiazepines like Valium have been involved in around 12% of all overdose deaths in the United States. Additionally, over 30 million Americans have a prescription for some form of benzodiazepine, and approximately 2% of the population struggles with benzodiazepine misuse.

Valium’s addictive nature and widespread use continue to increase addiction and overdose rates. As these numbers continue to rise, treatment professionals recommend that “patients who are prescribed stimulants or opioids should be monitored for benzodiazepine misuse,”¹⁷ and encourage exploring other, nonaddictive methods of addressing issues like insomnia: “Improved access to behavioral interventions for sleep or anxiety may reduce some misuse.”

Treatment Options for Valium Misuse and Addiction

Fortunately, Valium addiction is treatable, and a wide range of treatment options are available. The most successful recovery plans often combine several treatment approaches for comprehensive support.

Medical Interventions

If you’ve been taking it for some time, you’ll likely need to taper off Valium¹⁸ under medical supervision. Your treatment team might use medications like flumazenil, a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, to reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms. Your rehab, primary care doctor, or another qualified addiction specialist can help you determine whether you need detox before starting addiction treatment. 

Behavioral Therapies

Along with treating the symptoms of addiction, talk therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help you identify and change the thoughts and behavioral patterns that drive your substance use. Ongoing mental health treatment can help you learn healthy coping strategies to manage anxiety and other concerns without relying on Valium.

Support Groups

Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), non-12-Step groups, and other sober communities provide important support throughout your journey in recovery. These allow you to connect with others who have similar experiences, reminding you that you’re not alone and motivating you to stay sober even in challenging times.

Paths to Recovery From Valium Addiction 

Valium misuse is a serious issue with potentially life-altering consequences—but recovery is entirely achievable with the right help and resources. Whether you’re seeking to understand the signs of misuse, looking for treatment options, or supporting a loved one who needs resources for anxiety relief, there are plenty of avenues to healing. Search for Valium addiction treatment programs by location, pricing, and more, and reach out to a support specialist directly today.  

Frequently Asked Questions About Valium Misuse and Addiction

How addictive is Valium?

Valium, a benzodiazepine, is highly addictive when used long-term or in high doses. Over time, it alters your brain chemistry, which can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. Misuse or prolonged use significantly raises the risk of addiction, but Valium can be addictive even when used as prescribed. Always follow medical advice to minimize risks.

How long does it take to get addicted to Valium?

Addiction to Valium can develop in as little as a few weeks, especially with frequent use or higher doses. The risk increases with prolonged use, even at prescribed levels, as tolerance and dependence build quickly. Short-term, medically supervised use is generally safer to avoid addiction. You can also consider exploring alternative, nonaddictive ways of managing issues like insomnia and anxiety.

Can you get high on valium?

Yes, Valium can cause a high when if you take it in large doses or without a prescription. It makes people feel relaxed by enhancing GABA activity in the brain. However, using Valium recreationally significantly increases the risk of dependency, addiction, and dangerous side effects. Always use Valium as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Do people snort valium?

Some people misuse Valium by snorting it to feel its effects more quickly. This method is dangerous—it bypasses the digestive system, which can increase your risk of overdose, respiratory issues, and damage to your nasal tissues. Misusing Valium in any form greatly increases the likelihood that you’ll become addicted, in addition to other serious health consequences.