Benzodiazepines (or benzos) are a class of drugs commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. While benzos can effectively treat these conditions, they come with the risk of addiction and dependence. When someone is dependent on benzos and stops taking them suddenly, it can lead to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms such as extreme agitation, confusion, seizures, tremors, and more. Understanding what benzo withdrawal is and how long benzo withdrawal symptoms last is an essential part of recovery for those who have become addicted to benzos.
At Northpoint Omaha’s benzo rehab program, those experiencing a benzo use disorder will receive the medical care and support they need. Medical professionals will monitor withdrawal symptoms closely, and treatment plans are always tailored to each individual’s needs. Our rehabilitation center provides holistic treatment methods focusing on treating benzo addiction from psychological, physical, and social angles. For more information, reach out to our team of experts today at 888.687.8014. We’re here to help.
What Is Benzo Withdrawal?
Benzo withdrawal is a condition that occurs when someone who has been taking benzos (benzodiazepines) abruptly stops or significantly reduces their benzo dosage. Benzos are commonly prescribed medications used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and certain seizure disorders.
The abrupt cessation of benzo use can lead to various unpleasant symptoms due to the body’s difficulty in readjusting to the absence of the drug. Reactions can range from mild to severe, depending on factors such as how long a person took benzos and the size of doses taken.
Common benzo withdrawal symptoms include:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Tremors
- Restlessness
- Sweating
- Muscle aches and pains
- Tingling sensations in the hands and feet
- Increased heart rate
A more extreme reaction known as delirium tremens may also occur when benzo use is heavy and long-term. Symptoms could include confusion or disorientation, altered perception such as seeing or hearing things that are not real, and intense fear or paranoia.
Tapering off benzos slowly over time under the guidance of a medical professional is usually considered the safest way to prevent benzo withdrawal symptoms from occurring. It is crucial for anyone considering tapering off benzos or discontinuing them all together to speak with their doctor first about any potential risks involved with doing so.
How To Treat Benzo Withdrawal
Generally speaking, how long benzo withdrawal symptoms last will depend on various factors, including how long the benzos were taken for, the dosage levels used before withdrawal, and the individual’s lifestyle. However, it may take anywhere from several weeks to several months before full recovery is achieved.
For those seeking to recover from a benzo addiction, seeking proper medical support is highly recommended. Treatment options vary depending on individual cases but typically involve gradually reducing dosages while utilizing other therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), nutritional counseling, relaxation techniques, and lifestyle modifications to help manage symptoms during recovery.
In many instances, treatment providers will utilize medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to help individuals better cope with the withdrawal process. This enables clients to have a better ability to be fully present for treatment.
Helping Mediate Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms at Northpoint Recovery Omaha
At Northpoint Omaha, our benzo rehab program is committed to helping people break free from their addiction to live healthier lives free of drugs like benzodiazepines. Through thoughtful treatment plans tailored specifically for each individual and highly trained staff members who fully understand benzos addiction, our program is an excellent resource for anyone seeking assistance in overcoming their dependency on this damaging substance. For more information on our proven benzo rehab program, reach out to our team of experts today at 888.687.8014.