Benzodiazepine Detox in Nashville

Benzodiazepine addiction is a growing problem in Nashville and throughout the United States. Benzodiazepines, commonly known as benzos, are powerful prescription drugs that can help treat many medical conditions when taken under the supervision of a doctor. However, these drugs can be highly addictive if abused or taken for an extended period of time. For those suffering from dependence on the drug, there is a highly effective benzodiazepine detox in Nashville, TN.

At Detox Nashville, our team of professionals is committed to helping individuals safely withdraw from benzos and begin their road to successful recovery.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a type of psychoactive medication that has been used increasingly in medicine over the past few decades. Their primary purpose is to reduce anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures, as well as to produce sedative and hypnotic effects. Meaning they slow down body and brain function.

The most commonly used benzodiazepines include: 

• Valium®
• Xanax®
• Halcion®
• Ativan®
• Klonopin® 

Benzodiazepines can also be used to treat insomnia with shorter-acting medications such as: 

• Estazolam (ProSom®)
• Flurazepam (Dalmane®)
• Temazepam (Restoril®)
• Triazolam (Halcion®)
• Midazolam (Versed®) 

Unfortunately, the use of these medications has become more widespread than anticipated. People are using benzodiazepines for non-medical purposes. And also engaging in addictive behaviors such as doctor shopping or buying them off the street. Unfortunately, due to their potency and ease of availability, benzodiazepines have become one of the most misused pharmaceuticals in America today.

Common street names for benzodiazepines include benzos, nerve pills, tranks, and downers. In terms of regulation, benzodiazepines are classified by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as Schedule IV of the Controlled Substances Act.

Why are Benzodiazepines so Addictive?

Benzodiazepines are some of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States. However, benzodiazepines can be highly addictive if not taken as directed and can lead to physical dependence. The body quickly adapts to the presence of a benzodiazepine. So, when it is taken away or significantly reduced in dosage, withdrawal symptoms will occur. 

Benzodiazepines act on the central nervous system (CNS) by binding to a specific receptor called GABA-A receptor. Activation of these receptors reduces neuronal activity which leads to a decrease in feelings of stress and anxiousness. This makes them attractive for people dealing with mental health issues such as panic attacks or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). When consumed regularly over time though, this receptor begins to become resistant to the effects of benzodiazepines leading to a physical dependence. 

Benzodiazepine abuse often manifests itself in the form of intense cravings for more medication and difficulty controlling one’s use. With an increase in doses or frequency of use comes a greater risk for overdose. This is due to an increased risk of respiratory depression resulting from their sedative effects. Tolerance also increases with chronic use making it difficult for individuals to find relief from the initial symptoms that they were seeking treatment for in the first place. 

The benzodiazepine detoxification process helps individuals safely reduce their dose over time while minimizing withdrawal symptoms. For those struggling with benzodiazepine addiction there is help available for safe benzo detox in Nashville that is tailored specifically for benzodiazepine dependencies as well as psychological support services needed during recovery.

What Does Benzodiazepine Addiction Look Like?

Benzodiazepines can easily be misused and lead to dependence. When this happens, the individual may take extreme measures to acquire the drug they feel is necessary for them. Mental health professionals use the phrase “hypnotic, sedative, or anxiolytic use disorder” to refer to benzodiazepine abuse or addiction. 

Those addicted or dependent on benzos may display a host of behavioral, physical, cognitive, and psychosocial symptoms. Behaviorally there may be social withdrawal and isolation from family and friends. Also, difficulty meeting expectations at work or home. Physically they may experience weakness in the muscles, drowsiness, and blurred vision. While cognitively they may show signs of confusion, slowed thought processes, and reduced inhibition. Psychosocial symptoms someone could experience include feelings of hostility, sudden changes in moods, and emotional detachment or dysregulation. 

Additionally, when benzodiazepine addiction is combined with any co-occurring mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder it can become particularly hazardous. Thus, it is recommended that anyone who fits this profile undergoes medically-supervised detoxification. Symptoms associated with this combination include an increase in anxiety attacks accompanied by shaking and sweating. Also a higher tendency towards isolating behaviors, sadness, difficulty performing daily activities, lack of emotion regulation, and depression.

Finally, if someone is suffering from benzodiazepine misuse or addiction in Nashville, it’s important to seek help from a professional detox program. Our benzodiazepine detox in Nashville helps individuals safely withdraw from these substances while providing support throughout the process so they can begin recovery on a path toward healing and long-term sobriety.

Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal

Benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Xanax, are commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. Withdrawal from these medications can lead to a rebound period where symptoms may worsen before they improve. This rebound typically lasts between one to four days and is dependent on the half-life of the particular drug. 

In some cases, however, a full-blown benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome occurs which lasts 10-14 days or longer. Long-term use of benzodiazepines may also lead to physical dependence. Although, it is unclear how many people experience withdrawal symptoms or if duration or dosage plays an important role in this risk. Additionally, concurrent alcohol consumption or other sedative abuse may increase the risk of developing benzo dependency. 

Ultimately, it is important to note that withdrawal from benzodiazepine treatment can be difficult and should always be managed by a medical professional. Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on the individual and the length of time they have been taking the medication. Possible symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal may include: 

• Nausea, vomiting, dry heaves, and diarrhea
• Panic attacks, anxiety, and feelings of agitation
• Insomnia
• Difficulty focusing, thinking, and mood swings
• Tremors and sweating
• Hallucinations and short-term memory impairment
• Headaches and heart palpitations
• Muscle pains, tension, and twitching
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Depression and suicidal thoughts
• Weight loss
• Seizures, blurred vision, and psychosis 
• Delirium

To summarize, benzodiazepines are highly addictive and can cause physical dependence with prolonged use. Anyone considering discontinuing benzodiazepines should seek medical help before doing so.

The detoxification process at Detox Nashville is closely monitored by licensed medical professionals who can provide any necessary medications to ease the transition off of the drug. Withdrawal symptoms typically last for several weeks to months after cessation but can linger for up to a year in some cases.

Our Approach to Benzodiazepine Detox in Nashville, TN

Detox Nashville is a tranquil and peaceful treatment center located on a picturesque property. Our team of experienced administrative personnel, mental health clinicians, and medical professionals are dedicated to providing our clients with the highest level of care that meets their individual needs and goals. We offer comprehensive detox programs for alcohol and drugs like heroin, or prescription drugs like benzodiazepines.

Most people move through these 3 stages of addiction recovery:

1. Evaluation: Clients are screened for physical and mental health issues. This screening includes a comprehensive review of the client’s medical and psychiatric histories, as well as a history of substance use.
2. Stabilization: Clients are stabilized with medical and psychological therapies to prevent relapse or physical harm. During this process, a doctor may prescribe medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms.
3. Preparing entry to treatment: Preparation for a comprehensive and individualized addiction treatment program.

At Detox Nashville, we offer evidence-based treatment and therapies. Additionally, we understand that addiction recovery requires more than just detox services. It requires an extensive network of support. We ensure that each client has access to the resources necessary for sustained long-term recovery, such as: 

• Residential care
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
• Outpatient Program
• Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
• Sober living homes
• Weekly meetings
• Recreational activities
• Drug and alcohol screening
• Holistic therapy 
• Aftercare services

We believe in providing compassionate care to our clients throughout all stages of the recovery process. Our goal is to help those struggling with substance abuse find lasting healing. So, they can lead happier and healthier lives free from addiction’s damaging influences.

Begin Benzodiazepine Detox in Nashville, TN

At Detox Nashville, we understand how difficult benzodiazepine detox can be. That’s why our team of experienced professionals is here to provide you with the highest level of care and support as you work towards a successful recovery from addiction.

We use the most advanced treatments and therapies available, tailored to meet your individual needs for lasting success in recovery. Our compassionate staff is dedicated to helping you reach your recovery goals and providing a safe and comfortable environment. With our comprehensive approach to treatment, we’re confident that you will find the life-changing benefits of benzodiazepine detox in Nashville at our peaceful facility.

Contact us today for further information about our medically-supervised benzo detox in Nashville, TN.