Benzodiazepine Withdrawal and Treatment

Benzo withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on a variety of factors including the type of medication, dosage, and the length of time the drug was used. Withdrawal symptoms can begin as soon as six hours after the last dose. See below for the timeline of withdrawal symptoms.

1 – 4 Days:

This is the beginning stage of benzo withdrawal symptoms, which often mimic the symptoms the medication was intended to treat. People may experience anxiety, sweating, headaches, and panic attacks.

5 – 19 Days:

Symptoms peak at the two-week mark during the acute benzodiazepine withdrawal phase. This is when withdrawal symptoms are most severe. People may experience insomnia, palpitations, seizures, muscle aches and pain, perceptual changes and hallucinations, depression, flu-like symptoms, nausea, and dry heaving and weight loss.

Months – Years:

At this point, benzo withdrawal symptoms may come and go and lessen in severity. Reduced symptoms can persist for up to one year or more depending on the severity of the addiction.

The first step towards treating benzodiazepine addiction and withdrawal is admitting that there’s an issue. Be honest and true with yourself. If you are taking these medications in conjunction with alcohol or opioids, you must disclose this information. The team at Harmony Ridge Recovery Center understands the dangers one faces when attempting to taper down from an addictive medication.

Each patient admitted to our nationally recognized drug and alcohol rehabilitation center receives a tailor-made treatment plan designed to meet their specific needs. Patients are treated with the utmost respect and dignity, and we make every effort to make our patients comfortable during the detoxification and treatment process.

From the moment a person picks up the phone to ask for help, we are here for them during their entire journey towards recovery. We provide full support with processing insurance, arranging transportation to our recovery center, and introducing patients to our licensed medical team. We also give patients the lifelong tools and techniques needed to achieve a life free from the restrictions of addiction.

Benzodiazepine Detox

Detox is generally the first step of a benzodiazepine addiction treatment plan. Detoxification is the process your body undergoes as it rids itself of harmful chemicals accumulated through substance use. Our medical team will monitor your withdrawal symptoms around the clock. If necessary, licensed professionals may prescribe FDA-approved medication to alleviate the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. A detox allows you to start treatment with more of a clean slate so that you can focus on the underlying mental and emotional roots of addiction.

Medication for Withdrawal Symptoms

As mentioned above, doctors may prescribe during detox to lessen the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms. If symptoms become dangerous, such as a risk for seizures, medication may be necessary to keep you safe and healthy. It’s important to note that we take the use of medication very seriously. Our medical team will monitor the patient’s use of medication and their accompanying symptoms throughout the entire process. Medication will also be combined with many evidence-based methods, such as therapy and holistic care.

Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment: Inpatient and Outpatient Care

Inpatient Treatment Programs

Inpatient treatment is the highest level of care that our recovery center offers. Patients in inpatient treatment will receive daily addiction care with a structured routine while living at the facility. This routine will include evidence-based therapy, holistic care, and support groups, as well as other resources that target benzodiazepine addiction. Inpatient treatment will also address any co-occurring disorders.

Partial Hospitalization Programs

A partial hospitalization program (PHP) is the level of treatment below inpatient treatment. Members of our partial hospitalization program will travel to the facility for treatment and then have the opportunity to return home afterward. Treatment will take place several hours each day, three to five days per week. If you have a stable environment at home or obligations you must take care of, then partial hospitalization may be a great option. You’ll have the flexibility to create your schedule while receiving plenty of drug and alcohol treatment services.

Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient treatment offers the most flexibility for recovering individuals. Standard outpatient treatment allows patients to decide how many hours of treatment they’d like to receive every week. Outpatient care can be especially helpful when it comes to individuals with serious obligations outside of treatment. Perhaps you’re taking care of a child at home or have work responsibilities that must be taken care of during the week. In either case, we’ll work with you to create a schedule that suits your needs.

An intensive outpatient program (IOP) is a more intensive form of outpatient treatment. Recovering individuals in IOPs are required to commit to nine hours of therapy each week. However, both levels of outpatient care will provide the highest quality of addiction treatment and support.

It’s completely understandable for a person to be nervous or reluctant to reach out for help. That’s why we’re here. It’s our goal for every patient to feel safe, secure, and welcome during their time with us. The Harmony Ridge Recovery Center team is 100% committed to your success and goes above and beyond to ensure every patient receives the dedicated care that he/she deserves.

When you choose Harmony Ridge Recovery Center for your drug rehabilitation treatment, you will enjoy many amenities in a serene atmosphere. Patients enjoy the breathtaking mountain views, outdoor activities, full cafeteria, fitness room, and an indoor heated pool. This is a true refuge for those seeking treatment who want to maintain complete focus on their recovery. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly.

References:

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2018/12/181217081756.htm

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/262809.php

https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/benzodiazepines_and_the_alternatives

https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/opioids/benzodiazepines-opioids