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Recognizing Valium Abuse

a person rubs their face while sitting at a computer possibly struggling with symptoms of valium abuse

Valium is a brand of diazepam, part of the benzodiazepine family of drugs most commonly prescribed as a short-term treatment for anxiety disorders. Acting as a sedative, doctors also prescribe it to treat alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures. However, Valium is often used by those seeking to self-medicate for mental health problems and alcohol addiction.

While prescribed, Valium is meant to be taken regularly to be effective; using it increases the risk of addiction, particularly when an individual takes more than intended or uses it without a prescription from an unlocked medicine cabinet. Taking Valium for longer than 30 days, even with a doctor’s prescription, increases the likelihood of becoming addicted.

If you suspect that you or someone you care about is struggling with prescription drug dependence, Valium addiction treatment is available at Northpoint Washington. Contact us at 888.450.2153 for information about our different levels of expert care that can help those with prescription drug addiction issues.

How to Recognize Valium Abuse

Unfortunately, prescription pain medication abuse is not an uncommon occurrence. More than 16 million people reported misusing psychotherapeutic drugs in 2020. Some people addicted to Valium may not even realize they have a painkiller addiction problem.

One recognizable symptom of Valium abuse is the need for larger doses to feel the drug’s effects. What may have started as a prescribed one to four pills daily could escalate to dozens of pills a day. Users continue taking it to feel normal as they gradually lose control over their lives. Over time, it’s significantly more challenging for a Valium user’s brain to function without the drug. Common Valium side effects may include noticeable balance or muscle movement problems, drowsiness, and muscle weakness. Telltale signs of Valium abuse include:

  • Powerful cravings for the drug
  • Continuing to use it despite problems caused by it
  • Neglecting obligations
  • Isolation from friends and family
  • Loss of interest in enjoyable activities

Be aware of potential overdose; it’s essential to know that overconsumption of Valium can be fatal if taken with alcohol or opioid medications. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, loss of coordination, limp or weak muscles, slow breathing, or coma.

What’s the Best Way to Stop Using Valium?

Once a user has built up a tolerance to Valium’s effects, dangerous and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms can arise when an individual stops taking it. These symptoms are intense, and people with prescription drug addiction need medically-assisted detox treatment.

Due to the severity and duration of withdrawal, recovery from Valium abuse may last up to 90 days. Symptoms may occur with abrupt discontinuation of extended therapy; taper off slowly under a doctor’s supervision. Some symptoms include:

  • Convulsions
  • Tremors
  • Cramps
  • Vomiting
  • Sweating
  • Insomnia

The post-acute withdrawal phase is also a potentially difficult process as it may last well over a year and include intense anxiety or panic attacks, irritability, and severe sleep disturbances.

The key is to know the dangers of Valium abuse and to seek help before dependence accelerates to the point of addiction. The rate of painkiller addiction is high due to its easy accessibility, a history of over-prescription, and the fact that a user can quickly develop a tolerance to it. Recognizing the signs of abuse is critical to getting the professional treatment needed to get off the drug safely.

Find the Support You Need for Prescription Drug Addiction at Northpoint Washington

Take the next step in getting specialized help for Valium abuse. Northpoint Washington treatments for painkiller addiction address holistic healing with a focus on mental wellness support. We offer short-term inpatient rehab, medically-managed detox, and dual diagnosis treatment programs to free you from addiction at Northpoint Recovery.

Contact us today at 888.450.2153 to learn more about our clinical excellence and commitment to quality healthcare. For more information, you can also reach us through our online message form.