Key Takeaways
- Benzodiazepines are a group of drugs used to treat anxiety, seizures, and insomnia by calming the central nervous system.
- Diazepam (Valium) is a type of benzodiazepine with a longer-lasting effect than other drugs in its class.
- Some benzodiazepines act quickly and wear off faster, while others stay in the body for extended periods.
- Long-term benzodiazepine use can lead to dependence, withdrawal, and addiction.
- Professional treatment and medical detox are often needed for safe withdrawal and recovery from benzodiazepine addiction.
Introduction
Benzodiazepines, often called benzos, are commonly prescribed sedative medications used to treat anxiety disorders, insomnia, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. They work by slowing down activity in the central nervous system (CNS), producing a calming effect.
One of the most well-known benzodiazepines is diazepam, also known as Valium. While diazepam is a benzodiazepine, not all benzodiazepines are the same. Some, like alprazolam (Xanax), act quickly but wear off fast, while others, like diazepam and clonazepam (Klonopin), last longer.
Understanding the differences between benzodiazepines and diazepam is important for anyone taking these medications. It also helps individuals recognize the risks of dependence and addiction, which can develop with prolonged use.
What Are Benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription sedatives that enhance the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows brain activity. This results in reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sedation.
Doctors prescribe benzodiazepines to treat:
- Anxiety and panic disorders.
- Seizure disorders.
- Muscle spasms.
- Insomnia.
- Alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
While benzodiazepines are useful for short-term treatment, they are also habit-forming. Long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms, making it difficult to stop taking them without medical supervision.
What Is Diazepam (Valium) and How Is It Different?
Diazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine that remains in the body for an extended period. It is commonly prescribed for anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Compared to short-acting benzodiazepines like alprazolam (Xanax) or lorazepam (Ativan), diazepam stays in the bloodstream longer, meaning its effects last several hours to a full day. This makes it useful for conditions that require sustained symptom relief.
Key Differences Between Diazepam and Other Benzodiazepines:
- Duration: Diazepam lasts longer than short-acting benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan.
- Primary Uses: While all benzodiazepines treat anxiety, diazepam is often prescribed for muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal.
- Dependence Risk: Although all benzodiazepines can cause addiction, long-acting benzos like diazepam may have a lower risk of severe withdrawal symptoms than short-acting ones.
Because diazepam remains in the body longer, it may cause drowsiness for extended periods, making it unsuitable for some individuals.
How Benzodiazepines and Diazepam Affect the Brain
Benzodiazepines work by boosting the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that reduces brain excitability. This helps control anxiety, muscle tension, and seizures, making these drugs effective for various medical conditions.
Short-term effects of benzodiazepines include:
- Relaxation and reduced anxiety.
- Drowsiness and sedation.
- Slowed reflexes and coordination issues.
Long-term use, however, can lead to problems such as:
- Memory loss and cognitive decline.
- Increased risk of depression and anxiety.
- Tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms.
The Dangers of Benzodiazepine Abuse, Addiction, and Overdose
Although benzodiazepines are prescription medications, they are frequently misused, increasing the risk of overdose.
Taking higher doses than prescribed, using benzodiazepines for non-medical reasons, or combining them with opioids or alcohol can be life-threatening.
Signs of a Benzo Overdose
- Extreme drowsiness and confusion.
- Slow or shallow breathing.
- Loss of coordination and unconsciousness.
Mixing benzodiazepines with other central nervous system depressants, such as opioids, increases the risk of respiratory failure and death.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines have increased dramatically in recent years, making safe use essential.
Benzodiazepine Withdrawal and Detox: What to Expect
Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms, especially for those who have taken them for a long time.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
- Severe anxiety and panic attacks.
- Insomnia and restlessness.
- Tremors, sweating, and muscle pain.
- Seizures and hallucinations (in severe cases).
To reduce withdrawal severity, medical detox is recommended. Doctors help patients taper off benzodiazepines gradually to prevent extreme symptoms.
Treatment Options for Benzodiazepine Addiction
Overcoming benzodiazepine addiction requires a combination of detox, therapy, and long-term support.
Medical Detox for Safe Withdrawal
Medical detox is the safest way to quit benzodiazepines. In a detox program, doctors:
- Monitor withdrawal symptoms and provide medication to ease discomfort.
- Create a personalized tapering plan to prevent severe symptoms.
- Offer emotional and psychological support throughout the detox process.
Inpatient vs. Outpatient Treatment
- Inpatient rehab provides 24/7 medical supervision, therapy, and a structured environment, making it ideal for severe cases.
- Outpatient treatment allows individuals to attend therapy while living at home, best suited for mild to moderate dependence.
Behavioral Therapy for Long-Term Recovery
Therapy helps individuals understand their addiction triggers, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and prevent relapse. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in treating benzodiazepine addiction.
Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and 12-step programs offer peer support and long-term recovery resources.
Conclusion
Benzodiazepines, including diazepam (Valium), are effective but highly addictive medications used for anxiety, seizures, and other conditions. While they can be beneficial, long-term use increases the risk of dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and overdose.
Understanding the differences between benzodiazepines and diazepam is important for safe use. If dependence develops, professional detox and addiction treatment provide the safest path to recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, contact Virtue Recovery Killeen at 866-843-0545 for professional help today.
FAQs About The Prescription Drugs Benzos vs Diazepam
Is diazepam the same as a benzodiazepine?
Yes, diazepam is a benzodiazepine, but it is a long-acting type, meaning it stays in the body longer than short-acting benzos like Xanax.
Can you get addicted to diazepam?
Yes. Long-term diazepam use can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and addiction, requiring medical supervision for safe withdrawal.
Where can I get help for benzodiazepine addiction?
If you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, call Virtue Recovery Killeen at 866-843-0545 for professional treatment and support.
Resources
https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/benzodiazepines
https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/opioids/benzodiazepines-opioids
- About the Author
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Nicki Lugo is currently employed as Clinical Director at Virtue Recovery Center in Las Vegas. Nicki is a licensed clinical professional counselor (CPC) in the state of Nevada and a licensed associate counselor (LAC) in the state of Arizona. She is also a licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) in Nevada. Additionally, Nicki has specialized training in treating trauma and is a certified clinical trauma specialist (CCTS).
Nicki has earned a Master of Science degree in Psychology with an emphasis in Behavioral Health from the University of Phoenix and a Master of Science in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University. Currently, Nicki is pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counseling Education and Supervision at Grand Canyon University. Nicki’s research interests include the use of Positive Psychology interventions with dual diagnosis clients. Nicki hopes to contribute to the body of knowledge in treating substance use disorders.
Nicki’s long-term career goals include advancing in leadership roles within Virtue Recovery Center which is a quickly growing substance use disorder treatment facility. She hopes that one day her research and advocacy will help to save the lives of those who have been affected by substance use. She likes to say that advocacy is her passion and leadership is her superpower.
