As with many other prescription drugs, benzos are often used illegally and off-label. Many people are prescribed these medications by a doctor and then abuse them without being aware of the high likelihood of addiction. Eventually, they need to detox from prescription pills either on their own or with the help of professionals. It’s estimated that up to 44% of long-term benzo users face withdrawal symptoms when their doses are lowered or they stop altogether.1 Benzo detox can be particularly challenging because of these withdrawal symptoms, which is why it is crucial to choose a rehab that offers medically monitored benzo detox services, like Banyan Treatment Centers Stuart.

Common Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms & the Withdrawal Timeline

There are many benzo withdrawal symptoms that can occur during the detox process. If benzos were prescribed to treat anxiety or insomnia, then within 1-4 days of stopping their use, many people will experience a resurgence of these symptoms.2 Approximately 10-14 days after use has stopped, more addiction withdrawal symptoms may appear. The onset and intensity of these symptoms will vary from one patient to the next and depend on several different factors. Detoxing off benzos may only be mildly uncomfortable for some, but for others, this process could be painful and come with more serious risks. The more intense the withdrawal symptoms, the more dangerous the situation. It is best to find a benzo detox center like ours to complete this process under the supervision of medical professionals.

Common benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms that someone can expect during benzo detox include:

  • Insomnia
  • Agitation
  • Appetite loss
  • Nausea
  • Possible headaches
  • Dysphoria
  • Pins and needles sensation
  • Heightened sensitivity to stimuli
  • Hallucinations
  • Shaking
  • Muscle twitching
  • Memory loss
  • Sore eyes

Can You Die From Benzo Withdrawal?

Yes, if not handled appropriately, withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be potentially fatal. Anxiety, sleeplessness, and a few other problems are all treated with benzodiazepines, also referred to as benzos. A person may have withdrawal symptoms if they consistently take benzos for a long time and then abruptly cease using them or dramatically reduce their dosage. From mild to severe, these symptoms might include anxiety, tremors, seizures, hallucinations, and even potentially fatal conditions like delirium tremens (DTs). Severe withdrawal from benzodiazepines occasionally causes problems with the heart and lungs that, if left untreated, can be fatal.

Does Your Brain Go Back to Normal After Benzodiazepines?

Given time and the appropriate medical treatment, yes, the brain may mostly restore normal functioning after using benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines increase the activity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is found in the brain. Long-term use of these drugs may alter brain chemistry, which may lead to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when the drug is removed. However, with a well-planned tapering strategy, the brain may gradually restore its neurotransmitter levels and reach a state of homeostasis.

Individual physiology, as well as variables like the frequency and length of benzo usage, can all affect how quickly someone recovers. While some people may recover their normal brain function quite quickly, others could need more time. Furthermore, adopting healthy lifestyle habits like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress reduction might aid the brain's mending process. The need for competent medical monitoring and counseling during the withdrawal and recovery phases must be emphasized in order to ensure a safe and successful return to benzodiazepine-free brain function.

One of the Best Benzo Detox Centers in Florida

Because a benzodiazepine detox can include a wide array of unsavory withdrawal symptoms, the detox process is best managed by professionals. We offer a medically monitored detox in Stuart with medical personnel who will supervise the full detox process and who are trained to handle dangerous withdrawal symptoms to keep the patient safe. Our facility also keeps the patient’s comfort in mind and will do our best to manage their withdrawal symptoms throughout.

Although detox is the first step to recovery, effective therapies are needed to safely address the root of these challenges and provide a foundation for long-term sobriety. Following detoxification, patients are advised to enter programs providing personalized treatment. At the Banyan Stuart benzo detox center, we also offer unique Florida addiction therapy options that are designed to support true patient success. Benzos are highly challenging substances, but benzo detox and addiction treatment for benzos can be life-changing. From detox to personalized treatment plans, we are here to support patient health, comfort, and sobriety.

Whether you are looking for help for yourself or help for a loved one, our professionals are here. Contact our office today to learn more about how our Florida addiction treatment centers can help you.

Sources:

  1. NCBI – Benzodiazepines: time to withdraw
  2. NCBI – The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome

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At Banyan Detox Stuart our goal is to make sure that anyone who needs treatment from drug and alcohol addiction are able to get the help needed to assist them on the road to recovery. If you don't have insurance contact us to inquire about alternate methods regarding treatment for yourself or a loved one.

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