Valium is a Benzodiazepine drug prescribed to help ease symptoms of anxiety, alcohol withdrawal and seizures. Though this drug can have massive benefits for prescribed individuals, it is often abused for its calming effects. Valium abuse can cause drug dependency and lead to a destructive addiction.
Valium, known by the name Diazepam, is a Benzodiazepine that acts on the central nervous system and brain creating a calming and sedative effect. While it is most commonly prescribed to help treat anxiety, it can also be used to help relieve muscle spasms and provide sedation before a medical surgery. Side effects from using Valium are common but may worsen once the drug is abused. Side effects can include drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, and excessive tiredness.
Valium has long-lasting effects and is highly addictive. Valium dependency and addiction are more likely to happen if the user is abusing the drug. Any type of use that is not as prescribed by a doctor is considered abuse. This can include taking the drug without a prescription, taking a higher dosage than instructed, or mixing it with other drugs to enhance the effects. When someone has begun abusing Valium, they are likely to quickly develop a physical dependence to the drug.
Valium dependency can form even while following the doctor’s instructions, however it is far more likely to develop and lead to an addiction once the drug is abused. When someone is continuously taking the drug with or without a prescription, or increasing their dosage on their own, they will soon develop a dependency to the drug. Their body will think it needs the Valium to function properly and they may experience withdrawal effects once they stop using the drug.
Valium withdrawal symptoms include:
Most of the symptoms of Valium withdrawal are mild but will depend on a variety of factors such as duration of drug use, dosage amount, and whether the user stopped abruptly or “tapered-off” the drug.
In more severe and serious cases of Valium use, symptoms can include hallucinations, seizures, delirium, psychosis, convulsions, coma, and death. 911 must be contacted immediately if any of these signs of Valium withdrawal are present.
While Valium creates a desirable effect and can be highly addictive, many users become addicted because it helps them to feel normal. Valium does not produce the same “high” feeling as many other addictive Benzodiazepines. People often become addicted to this drug as a way to help them feel normal and to manage stress and anxiety. However, there are many risks involved with a Valium addiction.
Signs of a Valium addiction include:
It is possible to overdose on Valium, especially when mixing it with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol. A Valium overdose can be fatal and requires medical attention to ensure the safety of the user. Signs of a Valium overdose include blue lips, double vision, drowsiness, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, and uncoordinated movement.
Valium addiction is a serious mental health issue and can be incredibly challenging to treat on your own. Fortunately, there are many resources to help with Valium abuse and addiction.
Valium can have beneficial results when taken appropriately, however due to its anxiety-reducing and calming effects, many people abuse this drug, often leading to an addiction. If you have found yourself abusing or addicted to Valium, get help today. Contact Quit Addiction Now at (888-974-2973) to learn about the best treatment options for you.
