Benzo Detox: Safe Withdrawal from Xanax, Valium, and Other Benzodiazepines

Benzo detox should always be done under medical supervision, as withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be dangerous and potentially life-threatening. The process typically involves slowly tapering off the drug over several weeks or months, depending on the individual's needs and the severity of their addiction. Continue to read more about benzo detox.

By Editorial Team | Editor Yamilla Francese
Clinically Reviewed by Lauren Barry, LMFT, MCAP, QS
Medically Reviewed by Ali Nikbakht, PsyD
Reviewed / Updated: September 24, 2025 — Editorial Policy | Research Policy | Privacy Policy

By We Level Up | Author Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

What are Benzos?

Benzodiazepines, also called “benzos”, are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Drugs like Xanax, Valium, and Ativan can help with anxiety and sleep issues. However, using them for a long time can cause dependence or addiction. Stopping benzos suddenly can also cause withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe.

Because of this, it’s best to withdraw from benzodiazepines under a medically supervised detox program. Here, we’ll look at what you need to know about benzodiazepine detoxification programs.

What to Expect During Benzo Detox

During detox, your medical team will help you gradually taper off while closely monitoring you. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized tapering schedule. They may also prescribe medications. Both of these are aimed at minimizing withdrawal symptoms.

Benefits of Medical Detox for Benzo Addiction

Attempting to quit benzos “cold turkey” can be dangerous and increases the risk of relapse. A medical detox program provides:

24/7 monitoring and support
Medications to ease withdrawal
A safe, comfortable environment
Preparation for further treatment

After detox, you’ll be ready to begin therapy and learn strategies to prevent relapse.

Benzo Withdrawal Timeline

Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can begin 12-24 hours after your last dose. The severity and length of symptoms can change. This depends on factors like the type of benzo, the dose, and how long it was used.

Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience. Symptoms can differ in how strong they are and how long they last. This depends on the type of benzodiazepine, the dose, and how long it has been used.

Withdrawal symptoms may include:

Feelings of anxiety
Insomnia and sleep disturbances
Confusion and disorientation
Fast heart rate (tachycardia) or fast breathing
Tremors

Severe cases may experience psychosis or seizures. That’s why it’s essential to detox under professional medical care.

Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Psychosis

A young woman sits quietly, thinking about the challenges of benzo detox and the hope of recovery.

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How Long Do Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

Acute withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. However, some individuals may experience more prolonged withdrawal symptoms from benzos lasting for months or even years after stopping.

How long does benzo withdrawal last? The severity and timeline of withdrawal symptoms can also be influenced by how the drug is tapered or discontinued. A slow tapering schedule can help reduce the dose of benzodiazepines over weeks or months. This may lessen withdrawal symptoms and lower the risk of long-term withdrawal.

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Benzodiazepine Drug Facts

Benzodiazepines are a class of prescription sedative medications. They work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Common benzodiazepines include:

Alprazolam (Xanax)
Diazepam (Valium)
Clonazepam (Klonopin)
Lorazepam (Ativan)

Doctors prescribe benzos to treat conditions such as anxiety disorders, panic disorders, seizures, and insomnia.

Benzodiazepine Addiction & Overdose

Benzodiazepine use disorder (benzodiazepine addiction) is possible with all benzodiazepines, especially if they are misused. Taking higher doses or using them more often than prescribed raises your risk of benzodiazepine addiction.

Signs include:

Strong cravings
Continued use even though negative consequences
Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or quit
Neglecting responsibilities due to drug use

Combining benzodiazepines with opioids or alcohol dangerously increases the risk of overdose.

Symptoms of an overdose include:

Extreme drowsiness
Slurred speech
Shallow breathing
Loss of consciousness

Overdoses can be fatal without prompt medical attention. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately.

Benzo Withdrawal Death Statistics

Withdrawal from benzos can include anxiety, insomnia, seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens. These symptoms can be severe and last several weeks, based on the individual’s usage and other factors. Delirium tremens can lead to death if left untreated.

It is important to get medical help if you have benzo withdrawal symptoms. This is especially true if you have a history of seizures or other health issues. Your doctor or an addiction treatment expert can offer medication or other treatments. These can help manage your symptoms and assist you in safely stopping benzodiazepines.

12-48

The increased risk of using benzodiazepines to cause mortality begins at 12-48 months.

_{Source: NCBI}

30.5 Million

About 30.5 million people in the US use benzodiazepines. The NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) says that 17.1% of them misuse the drug.

_{Source: NIDA}

10%

The NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) says that 10% of people in benzo detox face long-lasting withdrawal.

_{Source: NIDA}

Top 5 Benzo Detox Studies with Insights

Here’s a patient-friendly chart of the top five benzo detox studies/guidelines.

Below is a concise, treatment-focused reference table of authoritative studies/guidelines on benzo detox (each row includes a direct URL). Use the “treatment implications” column when creating protocols or patient handoffs; the “insights for patients” column gives quick, actionable takeaways clinicians and program leaders can apply immediately.

Study	Treatment Implications	Insights for Patients
Pharmacological interventions for benzodiazepine withdrawal (Cochrane Review) — Baandrup et al. View Study	Medications tested for easing withdrawal show mixed results. Core strategy remains gradual taper with behavioral support; drug add-ons may help some, but are not universally effective.	Patients shouldn’t rely on a single medication fix. The safest path is a slow taper with therapy support — ask your doctor for a step-down plan.
Supervised taper with or without CBT — Morin et al., RCT View Source	Adding CBT to a taper plan significantly improved success in quitting and reduced relapse/insomnia compared with taper alone.	Combining therapy for anxiety/insomnia with tapering doubles the chance of success — request CBT if available.
Low-dose flumazenil and specialist care for dependence — Hood et al., review Link to study	Flumazenil infusion and other advanced interventions can help resistant or severe dependence, but need expert settings, not routine care.	For tough situations, families should ask for a referral. They can request a detox specialist or an inpatient program that offers advanced treatments.
Fixed vs symptom-triggered tapering (inpatient) — McGregor et al., RCT Visit study	Both fixed and symptom-triggered approaches worked, but symptom-triggered tapering required close clinical monitoring.	High-dose or complex cases benefit from inpatient detox with 24/7 monitoring, reducing risks like seizures.
Older adults tapering with CBT for insomnia — Baillargeon et al., RCT Read study	Older adults discontinued benzos more successfully with CBT plus taper compared to taper alone. Also showed improved sleep outcomes.	For seniors, CBT for sleep, combined with a slow taper, is safer and reduces the risks of falls and memory loss. Families should encourage non-drug sleep aids.

What Does Benzo Withdrawal Feel Like?

When does benzo withdrawal start? Acute withdrawal begins a few days after stopping the use of benzos. The worst withdrawal symptoms from benzos happen during this stage. These include muscle spasms, anxiety, hallucinations, and a reduced appetite. People may also have trouble concentrating and experience other issues.

Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be deadly because of potential seizures and other serious medical complications. Benzodiazepines act on the brain’s GABA receptors, which regulate the nervous system. When an individual stops taking benzodiazepines after long-term use or at high doses, the brain may become hyperactive and overexcitable, leading to seizures and other medical emergencies.

Seizures are the most serious potential complication of benzodiazepine withdrawal. Seizures can cause a loss of consciousness, convulsions, and even death. In addition to seizures, other possible complications of benzodiazepine withdrawal include delirium, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts. The severity of benzodiazepine withdrawal can vary. It depends on several factors. These include the dose and length of use, the person’s overall health, and their history of addiction or substance use disorders. It’s essential to seek medical attention if you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal. A healthcare professional can assess the severity of the signs. They can give the right treatment to help manage withdrawal and avoid possible medical problems.

Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms List

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can differ in how bad they are and how long they last. This depends on the type of benzodiazepine, the dose, and how long someone has used it. Here is a list of common symptoms and signs of benzo withdrawal:

Benzo Withdrawal Headache

Headaches are a common symptom of benzo withdrawal. Headaches can occur as part of the benzo withdrawal syndrome or as a separate symptom. The severity of headaches can vary from mild to severe and last several days or weeks. Several factors, including the following, can cause headaches during benzo withdrawal:

Changes in brain chemistry.
There is increased tension in the muscles of the head and neck.
Changes in blood flow to the brain.
Headaches may also be caused by dehydration or changes in sleep patterns.

Benzo Withdrawal Insomnia

Insomnia is a common symptom of benzo withdrawal. Insomnia during benzodiazepine withdrawal can be caused by changes in brain chemistry, increased anxiety or agitation, and disruptions to sleep patterns.

Benzo Withdrawal Diarrhea

Diarrhea is one of the possible benzo withdrawal symptoms. Several factors, including changes in the gastrointestinal system and increased anxiety or stress, can cause diarrhea during benzo withdrawal.

It is crucial to monitor the frequency and severity of diarrhea during benzo detox and seek medical support if the symptoms persist or worsen. In some cases, diarrhea during benzo withdrawal can indicate a more severe underlying medical condition. Your doctor can provide additional treatment options or suggest further testing to identify any underlying causes of your symptoms.

Benzo Withdrawal Psychosis

Psychosis is a rare but possible symptom of benzo withdrawal. Psychosis during benzo withdrawal can manifest as hallucinations, delusions, disorientation, and paranoia. Psychosis during benzo withdrawal is more common in individuals with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

If you experience symptoms of psychosis during benzo detox, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor may recommend hospitalization for observation and treatment of your symptoms. Treatment for psychosis during benzodiazepine withdrawal may include medications such as antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, or benzodiazepines in some cases.

If you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal, it’s essential to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can examine the severity of the signs and provide appropriate treatment, including medication-assisted therapy, counseling, or other forms of support. It’s crucial not to try to quit benzodiazepines cold turkey, as this can be dangerous and may lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. A healthcare professional can help you safely taper off the medication and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Post-acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

In some cases, people develop post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS). In this case, symptoms can last much longer than several months and can come and go for years after stopping benzodiazepines. While it is not considered the same as withdrawal, it can nonetheless feel like it.

PAWS symptoms are not well documented and may be similar to withdrawal symptoms. But according to an older study may include:

Return of anxiety
Depression
Tinnitius (ringing in the ears)
Headache
Tingling in the extremities (paresthesia)

These symptoms come and go in waves. Your treatment team will create an individualized plan to address your unique needs during PAWS and beyond.

Benzo Detox: Safe vs Risky Approaches explained to highlight the importance of professional care.

Benzo Withdrawal Scale

Withdrawal symptoms often peak in severity during the first few days after stopping the drug. Acute benzo withdrawal can last for weeks after stopping.

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can be serious. You can measure their severity using the Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Benzodiazepines (CIWA-B) scale. Another scale sometimes used is the Benzodiazepine Hypnotics Withdrawal Symptom Scale (BHWSS). These scales help determine the severity of withdrawal so your medical team can provide the best care possible.

Alcohol and Benzo Withdrawal

Alcohol and benzodiazepines are both central nervous system depressants that can lead to physical dependence when used regularly. Quitting these substances abruptly can result in severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) and benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome have many similar symptoms. This is because they both affect the brain’s GABA receptors in similar ways. In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can cause delirium tremens (DTs). This is a serious condition. It includes extreme confusion, a fast heartbeat, and a high fever.

Seek professional medical help and do not attempt to detox from either alcohol or benzos on your own.

Benzos for Opiate Withdrawal

Benzodiazepines are a type of drug that is generally used for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. While they can help with some symptoms of opiate withdrawal, a doctor should supervise their use.

Benzos can help alleviate anxiety, agitation, and insomnia symptoms during opiate withdrawal. However, they should be used carefully. They can be addictive and may cause side effects. These side effects include drowsiness, confusion, and poor coordination.

Benzodiazepines can be dangerous when taken with opioids. This combination can raise the risk of breathing problems, which can be life-threatening. Suppose you are considering using benzodiazepines to manage opiate withdrawal symptoms. In that case, it is important to do this with a healthcare professional. They can watch your progress and change your medication if needed. They can help you create a treatment plan. This plan may include other medicines and therapies. These will help manage your symptoms and support your recovery.

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Medical benzo detox protocol ensures safety with 24/7 monitoring and professional care.

Benzo Withdrawal Medication

Several medications can be used to manage the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal. A healthcare professional can prescribe these medications. They should be used under their supervision for safe and effective treatment.

Many medications can help with the physical and mental symptoms of benzo withdrawal. However, these medicines are usually not the only treatment for benzodiazepine addiction. Additional therapies, such as counseling and support groups, may also support long-term recovery.

What helps with benzo withdrawal? Several medications may be used to manage the symptoms of benzo withdrawal, including the following:

Gabapentin for benzo withdrawal. Gabapentin is a medication that is sometimes used to manage benzo withdrawal symptoms. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant medication that affects the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It effectively addresses the symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and seizures during benzo withdrawal.
Clonidine for benzo withdrawal. Clonidine is particularly helpful in managing symptoms such as high blood pressure and rapid heartbeat during benzo withdrawal. It can also help manage symptoms such as sweating, tremors, and anxiety.
Flumazenil for benzo withdrawal. Flumazenil is a medicine that can help with benzo withdrawal symptoms. However, its use is debated and not often recommended. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist that works by blocking the effects of benzodiazepines on specific receptors in the brain. It works well to reverse the calming effects of benzodiazepines in emergencies. This is important when someone has taken too much of a benzodiazepine.
Magnesium benzo withdrawal. Some studies have suggested magnesium for benzo withdrawal. Magnesium supplementation may help manage anxiety, insomnia, and muscle spasms. Magnesium can help regulate the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, which can help manage benzo withdrawal symptoms.
Hydroxyzine for benzo withdrawal. Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine with sedative effects and can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, and insomnia common during benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Phenobarbital for benzo withdrawal. Phenobarbital is often used in a complete treatment plan for benzodiazepine withdrawal. This plan may also include other medicines and therapies like clonidine, gabapentin, and counseling. Phenobarbital should not be the only treatment for benzodiazepine addiction. It is important to get professional help when dealing with benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Ketamine for benzo withdrawal. There is some research on using ketamine to treat substance use disorders, like benzodiazepine addiction. However, the evidence is limited. Medical guidelines do not recommend using ketamine for this purpose right now. Ketamine can cause serious side effects. These include hallucinations, disorientation, and confusion. We do not fully understand its long-term effects on the brain and body.
L-Theanine for benzo withdrawal. L-Theanine is an amino acid generally found in tea leaves and certain mushrooms. Some research suggests that it may help reduce anxiety. It could also help with symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal. However, it has not been studied much for this purpose.
Librium for benzo withdrawal. During benzodiazepine withdrawal, Librium can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and muscle spasms. It is usually used as a short-term treatment. The dosage and length of treatment can change based on each person’s needs.

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Treatment for Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

To reduce the risk of withdrawal, your healthcare provider will gradually reduce your benzodiazepine dosage. They may also give medications to manage withdrawal symptoms.

Medications

Medications that may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms include:

Long-acting benzodiazepines: Your doctor might switch your medication. They may change it from a short-acting benzodiazepine to a long-acting one. An example of a long-acting benzodiazepine is Valium. This helps stabilize your symptoms and allows for a gradual taper.
Anticonvulsants: Medications like gabapentin or carbamazepine can help reduce the risk of seizures during withdrawal.
Sleep aids: Non-addictive sleep medications like trazodone or melatonin can help with insomnia. They do not carry the risk of dependence.
Anti-nausea medications: Drugs like ondansetron or promethazine can alleviate nausea and vomiting during detox.

Your treatment team will carefully monitor your response to these medications and adjust dosages as needed. If you or a loved one is living with benzodiazepine dependence, We Level Up can help. Contact us today to learn more about our benzodiazepine detox program.

Inpatient Benzo Detox Treatment

Inpatient benzo detox treatment is often needed when someone has taken high doses of benzodiazepines for a long time. It is also necessary for those with polysubstance abuse or co-occurring disorders.

The process starts with an intake assessment that can help us understand the severity of your addiction. We can then begin the detoxification process. You will have monitoring and checkups all day, every day. This is to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.

We will select the best supplements for benzo withdrawal that fit your needs and health. We will conduct numerous checks to ensure you receive relief from the most severe withdrawal symptoms.

Inpatient rehab centers, or residential rehab centers, provide a complete way to treat addiction. This can help people with substance use disorders. Here are a few benefits of an inpatient rehab center:

24/7 Medical Care and Support: Inpatient rehab centers provide medical care and support all day, every day. This is very important during the early stages of recovery. People often face withdrawal symptoms or other medical problems at this time.
Structured Environment: Inpatient rehab centers provide a structured environment free from triggers and distractions. This allows individuals to focus on their recovery without the stresses and distractions of daily living.
Evidence-Based Treatment: Inpatient rehab centers provide treatments that are proven to work for addiction. These include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing.
Peer Support: Inpatient rehab centers provide a supportive community of friends who are going through similar struggles. This can help individuals feel less alone and give them a sense of community and connection.
Evidence-Based Care: Inpatient rehab centers provide many holistic therapies and activities. These include yoga, meditation, art therapy, and exercise programs. These can help individuals address their addiction’s physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects and promote overall wellness.
Aftercare Planning: Inpatient rehab centers help people create a detailed aftercare plan. This plan supports their sobriety after they finish the program. This may include outpatient therapy, support groups, and other resources.

Benzo Detox Near Me

If you or someone you know is getting off benzodiazepines, it’s important to find the right treatment center. Here are a few things to consider when making your choice. Here are some vital and significant things to look for in benzo withdrawal help:

Accreditation: Look for a detox center accredited by a recognized orgs., like the Joint Commission or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. Accreditation assures that the facility meets specific standards of care and quality.
Staff Qualifications: The staff at the detox center must be well-trained. They should have the right qualifications to provide medical and psychological care. Look for centers that have licensed physicians, nurses, therapists, and other healthcare professionals on staff. Benzo withdrawal stories and reviews can also help you decide.
Treatment Options: Different detox centers offer various treatment options. It is important to find one that meets your needs. Some centers offer medication-assisted detox, while others focus on holistic or natural ways to ease benzo withdrawal.
Location and Environment: The detox center’s location and environment can greatly affect how well your treatment works. Find a center in a safe and quiet area. It should have comfortable rooms and features to make your stay enjoyable.
Aftercare Support: Detox is only the first step in recovery. It is helpful to choose a center that offers aftercare support and resources to help you stay sober. Look for centers that provide counseling, support groups, and other resources to help you stay on track.
Cost and Insurance: Detox centers can be costly. It is important to think about the price and if your insurance will help pay for it. Look for rehab centers that accept your insurance or offer financing options to help make addiction treatment more affordable.

Getting Help for Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzo abuse can be devastating and affect all aspects of your life. If you are addicted to benzodiazepines, ask for help. You need medical detox to start your recovery the right way.

We Level Up benzo detox centers offer medical supervision to support you through your recovery process. We offer inpatient treatments for people fighting addiction and mental health disorders. We also have programs to help you stay sober after treatment.

Contact We Level Up today to begin your recovery. Benzo withdrawal symptoms may include insomnia, anxiety, and stress. However, these symptoms will likely subside or reduce as the body regulates through benzo detox.

Get FREE addiction treatment insurance check – https://welevelup.com/rehab-insurance/ If you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepines or other substance use problems, you can get help. Call for a FREE consultation anytime at (561) 678-0917

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you take CBD for benzo withdrawal?

There is no scientific evidence to support the use of CBD for benzodiazepine withdrawal. Benzodiazepine withdrawal should only be attempted under medical supervision. Do not try to withdraw from benzodiazepines at home.

What are the benefits of propranolol for benzo withdrawal?

Propranolol is a beta-blocker medication. It is sometimes used off-label to help with some benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms. It can help to reduce tremors, slow a rapid heartbeat, and reduce physical anxiety symptoms. But it does not address the underlying psychological aspects of addiction or withdrawal.

Is niacin effective for benzodiazepine withdrawal?

Niacin (vitamin B-3) helps with many body functions. However, there is not enough evidence to support its use for benzodiazepine withdrawal. Benzodiazepine withdrawal should only be attempted under medical supervision. Do not try to withdraw from benzodiazepines at home.

Is benzodiazepine withdrawal life-threatening?

In some cases, stopping benzodiazepines can be very dangerous. This is especially true if high doses were used or if the medication is stopped suddenly. This is why a medically supervised detox program is critical for safely managing benzodiazepine withdrawal.

Can you take trazodone for benzo withdrawal?

Trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label to relieve insomnia during benzodiazepine withdrawal. Its ability to promote sleep without causing physical dependence makes it a potential alternative to benzodiazepines. Your healthcare provider will determine if trazodone is appropriate for your specific situation.

How long do benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms last?

The length of benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can vary. It depends on the drug used, the dose, how long it was taken, and the person’s body. Acute withdrawal symptoms can last several months, with the most severe symptoms typically in the days after withdrawal. Some people experience prolonged symptoms, known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). With proper support and treatment, most people see a gradual improvement in symptoms over time.

Barbiturates, Sedatives, Hypnotics Effects, Warnings, Overdose Risks, Drug Facts, Detox & Treatment

Benzodiazepines and barbiturates are often compared because they are both central nervous system (CNS) depressants that can produce sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic effects. However, there are some critical differences between the two types of drugs.

Benzodiazepines and barbiturates are both central nervous system depressants. They can create similar effects. However, benzodiazepines are usually seen as safer. They are less likely to cause serious side effects or overdose. Both types of drugs can be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms. It is important to use them as prescribed and under a healthcare provider’s guidance.

Watch the video below to learn more about the dangers of barbiturate overdose.

Barbiturate Warnings Video Transcript

Welcome to the We Level Up treatment center video series. In today’s video, we will discuss What are Barbiturate Overdose Risks, Use, Effects, Withdrawal & Addiction Treatment Options?

What are barbiturates? Barbiturates are drugs used to treat anxiety, epilepsy, and sleeplessness. They are a type of central nervous system depressant that can potentially establish habits and be addictive. Overdosing on barbiturates can lead to respiratory depression, overdose, and even death.

Synthetic barbiturate drugs slow down the central nervous system. Barbiturates are used as sedatives or depressants, hypnotics, anticonvulsants, and as a component of anesthesia. Their effects range from mild sleepiness to coma. Barbiturates can also be used to relax patients before surgery. Barbiturates can make someone appear inebriated or drunk at relatively low doses.

Barbiturates are addictive. Those who take them develop a physical dependence on them. It may be fatal to stop using them (barbiturate withdrawal). Barbiturates’ ability to modify mood quickly leads to tolerance with continued use. Repeated usage increases the likelihood of developing severe poisoning as resistance to the fatal effects takes longer.

What are barbiturates used for?

Few substances are used in medicine today compared to the 1900s when barbiturates were first made available. In the past, barbiturates were frequently given to treat anxiety, sleeplessness, and depression. The National Institute of Health claims that Barbiturates are drugs that cause sleepiness and relaxation. A barbiturate overdose occurs when a patient consumes more of this medication than is typical or advised. Either by chance or by purpose, this may occur.

A barbiturate overdose poses a serious health risk. It is not recommended to use barbiturates anymore. They are not good for helping with sleep or calming restlessness and insomnia caused by daily stress. Due to these potentially fatal adverse effects, safer drugs have replaced barbiturates in many applications.

Barbiturates are mostly used today to treat severe and extreme cases of insomnia. These medications occasionally function as an adjuvant to anesthesia and aid in controlling epilepsy episodes. Barbiturates are classified as Schedule II, III, and IV depressants. This classification is under the Controlled Substances Act by the US Drug Enforcement Agency.

What is the definition of barbiturates?

Like sleeping pills, barbiturates are defined as “downers.” They function by reducing the activity of your nervous system and brain. The individual feels at ease as a result. Barbiturates can impair memory and judgment. Barbiturates can also produce mood changes and make users furious, despondent, and exhausted. They are more harmful when misused because they are stronger than most sleeping pills. This medicine can cause tolerance in users, who then use it more frequently. When used frequently and for an extended period of time, they might weaken muscles, harm the liver, and damage bones.

Never mix two different medication types together. Taking barbiturates along with heroin or alcohol is extremely risky. Alcohol, heroin, and barbiturates all reduce brain and nervous system activity. The nervous system controls breathing. Taking these medicines together raises the risk of a barbiturate overdose. This can lead to the user stopping breathing and possibly dying.

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Search We Level Up Benzo Detox, Mental Health Topics & Resources

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Resources:

Benzo Addiction Symptoms. Are Benzos Addictive? – A detailed guide on addiction signs, dependence, and when to seek help connected to Benzo Detox.

Risks Of Benzodiazepines, Uses, Side Effects, And Drug Facts – Explains risks, long-term use effects, and side effects that relate to Benzo Detox.

How Does Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Kill You? – Covers the dangers of unmanaged withdrawal and why medical Benzo Detox is critical.

Benzodiazepines And Cardiac Side Effects: What To Know – Reviews heart risks that make medically monitored Benzo Detox important.

Sources:

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[1] Bounds CG, Nelson VL. Benzodiazepines. [Updated 2023 Jan 7]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470159/

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[11] Mental Health Treatment Washington