What is Valium?
Valium is a trademark name for Diazepam, a medication in the benzodiazepine family of drugs that produces a relaxing and calming effect in its users. It is commonly prescribed to treat a variety of anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, seizures, insomnia and even alcohol withdrawal. Since it’s launch in 1963, it has been one of the most frequently prescribed medications in the world. However, its commonality also makes Valium addiction one of the most common prescription drug addictions in the world.
How Does Valium Addiction Affect the Body?
Valium increases levels of the neurotransmitter, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA controls the activity of nerves in the spinal cord and brain. These increased GABA levels result in slowing down brain activity and produces the drug’s calming side effects. Like other narcotics, Valium’s immediate calming effects will eventually wear off over time and the user will develop a tolerance to the drug, which likely results in the user developing a physical and psychological Valium addiction.
Behavioral Symptoms
- Isolating from family and friends
- Unusual sleeping patterns
- Abandoning obligations from work and family
- Hostile behavior
- Change in eating habits
- Doctor shopping- visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions
Physical Symptoms
- Dramatic weight loss
- Poor coordination
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Muscle weakness
- Double vision
Psychological Symptoms
- Symptoms of amnesia
- Psychosis
- Delusions
- Change in personality
- Lack of motivation
Symptoms of Valium Withdrawal
Addicts who use valium for a prolonged period of time will exhibit some very painful side effects from withdrawal if they abruptly stop using the drug. These side effects are very painful, both psychologically and physically and can even be life-threatening if they are not treated properly. If you notice any of these symptoms, then medical attention should be sought immediately. Some common signs of valium withdrawal include:
- Extreme anxiety
- Paranoia
- Nausea and vomiting
- Insomnia
- Shakiness or tremors
- Hypertension
- Seizures
- Depression
Medical Effects of Long-Term Valium Use
The side effects of long-term Valium abuse can be both mentally and physically devastating. People who abuse this drug can eventually suffer from rebound anxiety, where the drug starts to cause the opposite effect of its intended use. This means that when the drug has been abused for a while, anxiety can worsen. Some side effects of long-term Valium abuse include:
- Permanent brain damage
- Memory problems
- Sexual dysfunctions
- Depression
- Cognitive impairments
Treatment for Valium Addiction at Morningside Recovery
Morningside Recovery offers clients a path to recovery from Valium addiction. Through a variety of addiction treatment services and addiction therapy services, we help clients get to the root of their addictions and teach them healthy coping mechanisms and stress management techniques. We also offer other addiction treatment services, inclduding:
- Alcoholism rehab
- Cocaine addiction rehab
- Marijuana addiction treatment
- Salvia addiction treatment
- Xanax addiction treatment
Addiction doesn’t have to control your life. If you’re ready to take the next step in your addiction recovery journey, call Morningside Recovery today at 855-416-8202 for more information.
“The way I look at it, my brain is sending me error messages like a computer. I learned to recognize those messages for what they are and to deal with them differently than before.” – Morningside Alumni