Diazepam
One of the main reasons for Diazepam’s addictive nature is the rapid development of tolerance in the body, requiring higher dosages to achieve the same sedative effect. Diazepam, commonly known as Valium, belongs to the benzodiazepine group of prescription medicines, which are often used to treat anxiety, depression, and insomnia due to their sedative effect. It is unusual for doctors to prescribe Diazepam for more than four weeks due to the quick development of addiction in patients, as long-term use leads to dependence on its chemical effects on the brain and neurotransmitters. The addictive nature of Diazepam is further compounded by the phenomenon of rebound anxiety, where the anxiety returns more intensely when the drug is discontinued, driving the user to continue its use in a cycle of dependence. Additionally, Diazepam’s long half-life means it remains in the body for an extended period, prolonging withdrawal symptoms and cravings, thus making it challenging to quit and contributing to its addictive potential. For information on available treatments for Diazepam addiction, individuals can reach out to a Treatment Advisor for a free assessment. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Strength and addictive qualities
Diazepam, as a prescription drug, is often underestimated in terms of its strength and addictive qualities. There are various physical and behavioural signs that may indicate a diazepam addiction. Some physical symptoms of diazepam addiction include dizziness, nausea, constipation, headaches, low blood pressure, slurred speech, blurred vision, tremors, difficulty urinating, incontinence, restlessness, insomnia, muscle cramps, excessive sweating, hallucinations, slowed breathing, and impaired motor skills. On the other hand, behavioural symptoms of diazepam addiction may manifest as confusion, depression, irritability, severe anxiety, and panic. Addiction is often associated with substance misuse, encompassing a wide range of chemical substances from alcohol to illicit, legal, or prescription drugs, all of which can be highly addictive. It’s important to note that addiction is not solely related to substances; behavioural addictions also pose significant risks and can be just as detrimental to mental health as substance addictions. Behavioural addictions occur when individuals become addicted to a particular activity, highlighting the fact that addiction is not limited to chemical substances alone. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)
Diazepam – high potential for addiction
Diazepam addiction can quickly develop in individuals prescribed the drug, leading to limitations on prescriptions lasting longer than four weeks. The body rapidly develops a tolerance to diazepam, contributing to its high potential for addiction. Individuals who develop a tolerance to diazepam require higher dosages to achieve the same sedative effect. Long-term use of diazepam results in dependence as the body becomes reliant on its chemical effects on the brain and neurotransmitters. The rapid development of tolerance to diazepam increases the likelihood of addiction, as higher doses are needed to achieve the desired effects. A history of substance abuse also heightens the risk of developing an addiction to diazepam. People with anxiety, depression, or stress are at a higher risk of developing addiction to diazepam, as the drug becomes a reliance for feeling normal or aiding sleep, rather than producing a ‘high’. Tel: 07811 606 606 (24 hours)