In 2020, about 5 million diazepam prescriptions were written by doctors in the United States. And in recent years, diazepam, better known as Valium®, has fallen under the category of prescription drug abuse across the country.
Valium is typically used to treat anxiety and panic attacks, and although it is highly effective, it is also prone to misuse and abuse. At Encino Detox Center, we offer Valium addiction treatment for people who are suffering from prescription drug abuse. Today, we are here to talk about the hidden dangers of Valium addiction and how to recognize and treat the signs, symptoms, and side effects.
A Short History of Valium
Diazepam, which is the generic name for Valium, was first synthesized in 1959 by Hoffman-La Roche. From 1968 to 1982, Valium became a top-selling pharmaceutical drug in the United States, and almost 2.3 billion pills were prescribed in 1978. The drug has helped many people over the years and continues to do so.
What Is Valium and How Does It Impact the Brain?
Medical scientists are always looking for solutions, but it doesn’t mean that those solutions don’t have potential impacts on society. When prescription drugs are abused, they can cause serious health implications for the millions of people taking them. But what is Valium, and how has it become so addictive?
Valium or diazepam is typically used to treat:
- Anxiety
- Muscle spasms
- Seizures
Valium has a calming effect that suppresses brain activity and slows down your central nervous system’s transmission of electrical signals. When Valium is taken as directed, it can be beneficial for patients who experience shaking, seizures, uncontrolled movement, and anxiety. It creates a sense of euphoria and calmness that can lead to abuse or misuse even when prescribed by a medical professional.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Valium Abuse?
If Valium is abused, it can lead to a number of psychological conditions and symptoms that are unpleasant and counteractive to symptoms that Valium typically relieves. Let’s take a closer look at some of these conditions so that you can be aware of potential signs of addiction and abuse.
Symptoms of Valium abuse include:
- Confusion
- Impaired judgment
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Forgetfulness
Ironically, abusing Valium can lead patients down an even worse path than before if it is abused and misused. Let’s take a look at some of the side effects patients experience in the short and long term.
Valium’s Short-Term and Long-Term Side Effects
It’s important to talk with your doctor and understand the risks of Valium misuse and addiction. Although Valium is an effective treatment for anxiety and panic attacks, there are side effects that everyone should be aware of.
The Short-Term Side Effects of Valium
Short-term side effects of Valium depend on the prescription dosage. However, the more immediate side effects that a patient can experience include:
- Stomach pain or nausea
- Dry mouth
- Faintness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sleepiness
- Inability to concentrate
The Long-Term Side Effects of Valium
It’s important to be aware of the potential long-term effects of Valium usage, as they can have a significant impact on your well-being. If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these side effects, it’s important to speak with a medical professional.
These side effects may include:
- Experiencing constipation
- Mental fog
- Difficulties with urination
- Decreased sex drive or impotence
- Uncontrollable tremors
- Speech problems
- Issues with muscle control
Taking care of your health and seeking support when needed is crucial. Reach out to your healthcare provider if you have concerns or questions. Talk to your family members and friends about any forms of support you may need.
What Are the Signs of Valium Overdose?
If you think someone has overdosed on Valium, it is important to seek medical help right away.
Signs of a Valium overdose include:
- Severe drowsiness and confusion
- Coma or difficulty awakening from sleep
- Slowed heartbeat
- Difficulty breathing or shallow breaths
- Bluish-colored lips or fingernails
- Uncoordinated movements or loss of balance
- Loss of consciousness
If you believe an overdose has occurred, it is important to get medical help right away. Valium can be deadly if taken in large doses, and emergency medical care should be sought as soon as possible. Specialized treatment centers may also offer supportive services such as detoxification, medication-assisted treatment, and aftercare services. It is important to seek help from a qualified professional in order to ensure safety and the best chance for recovery.
Treatment Options for Valium Addiction
At The Encino Detox Center, we offer a range of both inpatient and outpatient treatments so that you can detox from Valium addiction in a safe and serene environment. Detoxing alone is not recommended, and one of the most important aspects of a successful recovery is your community and support system.
We offer evidence-based trauma recovery services that include trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT) as well as trauma-focused dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) combined with other modalities that will help you heal.
Our amenities for healing include:
- Your own private room
- Access to a spa and sundeck
- Peaceful indoor and outdoor spaces
- A full-service gym
- Trauma-focused yoga
- Neurophysiology
- Neurofeedback
- A full-service gourmet chef
- Massage therapy
- Sound bath healing
- Laundry services
You can detox in peace under medical supervision by admitting yourself to a recovery center. Our professionals are ready to help you take the next steps toward recovery from Valium addiction.
Contact The Encino Detox Center in Los Angeles, CA
At The Encino Detox Center, our advanced knowledge of addiction recovery will help you or a loved one get out of despair and back to their life and the relationships that encompass them. Our team members are handpicked and have 127 years of combined experience in healing drug addiction and leading patients to recovery.
Let’s develop new strategies to manage your emotions and the way you see yourself. We will work towards neurophysiological and psychological changes as you begin to redefine who you are and discover purpose in your life. Contact us today, and we’ll begin the journey towards recovery together.
