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

Benzodiazepines, also called “benzos”, are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Drugs like Xanax, Valium, and Ativan can be used to treat anxiety and sleep problems, but prolonged use can lead to 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.

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 gradual tapering schedule that slowly reduces the dose of benzodiazepines over several weeks or months may help to minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of protracted withdrawal.

Benzo Withdrawal Death Statistics

Withdrawal from benzo symptoms 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 crucial to get medical aid if you are experiencing benzos withdrawal symptoms, especially if you have a seizure history or other medical conditions. Your doctor or an addiction treatment professional may be able to provide pharmacotherapy or other treatments to manage your symptoms and help you safely withdraw from benzodiazepines.

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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 benzos can cause occur during this stage, including muscle spasms, anxiety, hallucinations, decreased appetite, trouble concentrating, and more.

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 depending on several aspects, including the dose and duration of benzodiazepine use, the individual’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 examine the severity of the signs and provide appropriate treatment to help manage withdrawal and prevent potential medical complications.

Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms List

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity and duration based on several factors, including the type of benzodiazepine, the dose, and the time of use. Here is a list of common symptoms and signs of benzo withdrawal:

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. 

The severity of benzo withdrawal symptoms can be assessed 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 share many similar symptoms due to their comparable effects on the brain’s GABA receptors. In severe cases, alcohol withdrawal can lead to delirium tremens (DTs), a dangerous condition characterized by extreme confusion, rapid heartbeat, and 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 be effective in managing some of the symptoms of opiate withdrawal, their use should be supervised by a medical professional.

Benzos can help alleviate anxiety, agitation, and insomnia symptoms during opiate withdrawal. However, they should be used cautiously because they can be addictive and cause various side effects, including drowsiness, confusion, and impaired coordination.

Moreover, benzodiazepines can be harmful when combined with opioids because they can increase the risk of respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening. Suppose you are considering using benzodiazepines to manage opiate withdrawal symptoms. In that case, it is crucial to do so under the direction of a healthcare professional who can monitor your progress and adjust your medication as needed. They can also help you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other medicines and therapies to help you manage your symptoms and stay on track with your recovery.

Benzo Withdrawal Medication

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

While several medications can help manage some of the physical and psychological symptoms of benzo withdrawal, these medicines are not typically used as the sole 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 medication sometimes used to manage benzo withdrawal symptoms, but its use is controversial and not widely recommended. Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist that works by blocking the effects of benzodiazepines on specific receptors in the brain. It is effective in reversing the sedative effects of benzodiazepines in emergencies, such as when someone has overdosed on 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 typically part of a comprehensive treatment plan for benzodiazepine withdrawal, which may include other medications and therapies such as clonidine, gabapentin, and counseling. Phenobarbital should not be used as the sole treatment for benzodiazepine addiction, and it is necessary to seek professional guidance and support when managing benzodiazepine withdrawal.
• Ketamine for benzo withdrawal. While there is some research on the use of ketamine for managing substance use disorders, including benzodiazepine addiction, the evidence is limited, and medical guidelines do not currently advise the use of ketamine for this purpose. Ketamine can have significant side effects, including hallucinations, disorientation, and confusion, and its long-term effects on the brain and body are not fully understood.
• L-Theanine for benzo withdrawal. L-Theanine is an amino acid generally found in tea leaves and certain mushrooms. While it has not been extensively studied for the management of benzo withdrawal symptoms, some research suggests that it may have anxiety-reducing effects and could potentially help manage symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal.
• Librium for benzo withdrawal. During benzodiazepine withdrawal, Librium can help manage symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and muscle spasms. It is generally used as a short-term treatment option, and the dosage and duration of treatment may vary based on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances.

Treatment for Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

To reduce the risk for 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 healthcare provider may switch you from a short-acting benzodiazepine to a long-acting one, such as 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, such as trazodone or melatonin, can help address insomnia without 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 usually warranted when a person has been taking large doses of benzodiazepines for a long time, is suffering from polysubstance abuse, or experiencing 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. During this process, you will have 24/7 monitoring and checkups throughout the day to ensure you are as comfortable as possible.

We will choose the best supplements for benzo withdrawal that sufficiently suit your needs and your health level, and we will perform many checks to ensure you can get the relief you need from the worst withdrawal symptoms.

Inpatient rehab centers, also known as residential rehab centers, offer a comprehensive approach to addiction treatment that can benefit individuals struggling with substance use disorders. Here are a few benefits of an inpatient rehab center:

• 24/7 Medical Care and Support: Inpatient rehab centers offer round-the-clock medical care and support, which is especially important during the initial stages of recovery when individuals experience withdrawal symptoms or other medical issues.
• 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 offer evidence-based treatment modalities that are proven effective in treating addiction, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and motivational interviewing.
• Peer Support: Inpatient rehab centers offer a supportive community of friends who are going through the same struggles. This can help individuals feel less alone and give them a sense of community and connection.
• Evidence-Based Care: Inpatient rehab centers often offer a range of holistic therapies and activities, such as 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 individuals develop a comprehensive aftercare plan to help them maintain their sobriety after they leave the program. This may include outpatient therapy, support groups, and other resources.

Benzo Detox Near Me

If you or someone you know is detoxing from benzos and looking for a center, there are several aspects to consider when selecting the right one. Here are some vital and significant things to look for 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 should be highly trained and qualified 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 may offer different treatment options, so finding one that provides the right level of care for your requirements is crucial. Some centers offer medication-assisted detox, while others focus on holistic or natural ways to ease benzo withdrawal.
• Location and Environment: The location and environment of the detox center can play a significant role in the success of your treatment. Look for a center that is in a safe and peaceful location, with comfortable accommodations and features that will make your stay as comfortable as possible.
• Aftercare Support: Detox is just the first step in the recovery process, so choosing a center offering aftercare support and resources to help you continue your sobriety is beneficial. Look for centers that provide counseling, support groups, and other resources to help you stay on track.
• Cost and Insurance: Detox centers can be expensive, so it’s essential to consider the cost and whether your insurance will cover 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 have an addiction to benzodiazepines, reach out for help to get the medical detox assistance you need to begin your recovery correctly.

We Level Up benzo detox centers can get medical supervision that can help you get through your recovery process. We provide inpatient treatments to help those battling addiction and other mental health disorders and alums programs that can make it easier for you to maintain your sobriety 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 a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepines or other substance use disorder(s), call for a FREE consultation 24/7 at (561) 678-0917

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

While benzodiazepines and barbiturates are both CNS depressants that can produce similar effects, benzodiazepines are generally considered safer and less likely to cause severe adverse effects or overdose. However, both types of drugs can be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms, so it’s crucial to use them exactly as prescribed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

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