Valium is neither a narcotic nor an opioid, so what is Valium classified as? Valium is legal, and it’s often prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety disorders. Valium is classified as a benzodiazepine (benzo) or tranquilizer. The medication is a psychoactive drug that may have similar effects to opioids, but the brain is affected differently. So, if you are wondering, “is Valium a narcotic,” the answer is no, but what are the side effects of this drug?
Understanding benzodiazepine dependence is the first step — our benzodiazepine rehab center in Boca Raton, FL offers medically managed benzo detox to help individuals begin their recovery journey.
Is Valium a Controlled Substance?
Is Valium an opioid? We know the answer to be no since Valium is a controlled substance classified under benzos or tranquilizers. These substances have a high potential for misuse and abuse. Addiction is a common after-effect, and people will tend to build a tolerance and continue use after the prescribed deadline. Benzos are included in Schedule IV, which concludes their addiction level.
People typically rely on the substance since it suppresses anxiety or panic attack symptoms. Benzos are also taken to reduce alcohol withdrawal symptoms and treat physical pain. The medication affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter that is affected and reduces brain activity, such as slowing the signals in the system.
The Pill Valium & Its Side Effects
Valium medication can produce negative impacts on the body. Valium has been prescribed for chronic pain, though it works differently from opioids. The effects stem from the CNS. The question, “is Valium a narcotic,” is answered but does not dismiss substance abuse. Here are some common side effects of the drug:
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Constipation
- Slurred speech
- Muscle weakness
- Trouble breathing
- Memory problems
- Confusion or paranoia
- Problems with balance
- New or worsening seizures
Although Valium does help with anxiety and creates feelings of relaxation, it also decreases response time, and proper brain functioning may be impaired. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, seeking a prescription pill addiction treatment program can benefit a person to avoid overdose or long-term health complications.
Our prescription drug rehab in Cathedral City, CA provides residential treatment that can help individuals manage benzodiazepine withdrawal through evidence-based approaches and personalized care plans.
Getting into treatment is easy with our free insurance verification
"*" indicates required fields
Addiction Recovery at Our Heartland Treatment Center
At Banyan Treatment Centers Heartland, we care about providing our patients with the proper treatment plan that will benefit their recovery needs and goals. We offer a terrific benzo addiction program, including detox, for those who are struggling with substance abuse. Our unique programs include a Faith in Recovery program for those who desire to reconnect spiritually, emotionally, and mentally during the recovery process. A relapse prevention program is also available for those who need extra guidance and support after treatment.
If you're ready to address benzodiazepine withdrawal, contact our benzo addiction treatment facility in Castle Rock, CO to explore residential treatment and begin the path toward healing.
Speak to a specialist at Banyan Heartland by calling 888-280-4763 and asking about our intensive outpatient program to get started on the path to recovery today!
Related Readings:
Sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2016). VALIUM (DIAZEPAM) Label.
- Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior. (2006). Behavioral effects of opioid subtypes compared with benzodiazepines in the murine staircase paradigm.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (None). CDC Science Clips - Public Health Genomics Knowledge Base.
- National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). (None). Chapter 3—Brief Intervention - A Guide to Substance Abuse Brief Intervention for Healthcare Professionals.
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). (None). Controlled Substance Schedules - Diversion Control Division.
- Psychiatric Times. (2021). Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations.
- NCBI Bookshelf / StatPearls. (2023). Diazepam - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - NIH.
- NCBI Bookshelf. (2023). Vitamin B6 Toxicity - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf.
- National Library of Medicine (NLM), NIH. (None). Escitalopram: MedlinePlus Drug Information.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2021). VALIUM (diazepam) Tablets - FDA Label.
