Valium Detox, Treatment & Rehab
Overview
Valium (diazepam) belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines. It is primarily used to treat seizures, muscle spasms or twitches, but is sometimes used to ease anxiety, especially before a medical procedure. Sometimes the drug is prescribed to people in rehabilitation for alcohol use disorder because small doses of Valium reduce mental, emotional, and physical irritation during withdrawal.
If you or someone you know struggles with dependence on Valium or another substance, Guardian Recovery can help. We will work with you to develop an individualized and effective program to help you recover from addiction and get you on the road to long-term recovery. We believe in the benefits of a full curriculum of clinical care, beginning with medical detoxification, transitioning into a higher level of treatment, and concluding with personalized aftercare planning.
Side Effects of Valium
Minor side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, and headache. More concerning side effects that warrant immediate medical attention include: allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; evidence that your central nervous system is malfunctioning such as slow or shallow breathing; and thoughts of suicide or self-harm, worsening mood, and feelings of depression.
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Can You Become Addicted & Dependent on Valium?
While Valium is typically viewed as a medication with minimal risks, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) warns that misuse is often seen among teenagers and young adults. These individuals may consume the drug orally or even snort it for recreational purposes. This behavior is notably prevalent among individuals who use heroin or cocaine.
Even under the guidance of a medical professional, there’s a risk of developing an addiction to Valium if you consume more of the drug than recommended. There’s also a risk that your body builds up a tolerance, causing you to consume more Valium to achieve the same effect. It’s important to note that Valium can remain in your system for up to a week, making combining it with other substances a risky endeavor.
Signs & Symptoms of Valium & Benzodiazepine Dependence
Valium works by enhancing the effect of GABA in the brain. When taken for recreational purposes or at higher doses than prescribed, Valium produces an intensely euphoric high that can lead to addiction.
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Signs of Valium addiction include:
– Aggression and irritability
– Continued use of the drug despite health or relationship consequences
– Excessive sleep
– Excitability and jitteriness
– Lack of connectedness to loved ones and friends
– Memory loss
– Mood fluctuations
– Shallow, labored breathing
– Strong drug cravings
If you take Valium intravenously, you may develop blood clots and deep vein thrombosis, infections such as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, and AIDS, and vein damage and scarring.
How Long Does it Take for Valium Addiction to Develop?
You can become addicted to Valium after just a few days of use, but taking the medication for longer periods of time makes you more likely to build up a tolerance and develop a dependency on the drug. Getting professional help for Valium addiction is absolutely crucial.
Valium Detox & Rehab Process
Detoxing from Valium without professional help can be dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms may include: anxiety and agitation, insomnia, tremors, seizures, increased heart rate and blood pressure, mood changes, nausea and vomiting, and headaches.
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Medications Used During Treatment
Tapering Tapering is the process of gradually reducing the dosage of the medication to prevent the body from going into shock. In most cases, the dose of Valium is lessened by 5mg each week until there’s no more Valium in your system. Often, tapering needs to continue even when a client enters an inpatient drug rehab program.
Medication-Assisted Treatment If you have a severe case of Valium dependence, you may be given an anti-seizure medication as a precautionary step. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen are also provided to lessen physical discomfort. If you have trouble sleeping, sleep aids might be offered.
Rehab Programs & Options for Valium Addiction
- Inpatient or Residential Treatment A communal setting where individuals in recovery cohabitate, providing access to expert medical and clinical care. Duration of treatment is flexible but usually spans approximately 30 days.
- Outpatient Rehabilitation Remain at home while attending therapy sessions several times a week, focusing on relapse prevention and development of healthy coping mechanisms.
- Partial Hospitalization Program After residential treatment, many individuals opt for PHP, which includes a comprehensive schedule of activities taking place five or six days a week.
- Intensive Outpatient Program Resume work, school, and other activities while living in a sober or private home. Treatment sessions lasting several hours take place three to five days a week.
- Virtual and Online Treatment and Counseling Virtual addiction treatment programs provide access to care anytime, anywhere via video conferencing platforms.
