Are You Addicted to Valium?
Recognizing your own addiction can be a challenging proposition, especially while you're still using. This general premise applies to illegal and prescription medications alike. To make things even more challenging, certain prescription medications like Valium, for example, require prolonged use before the signs of addiction ever become apparent. As such, those who are addicted may not be aware of their addiction until they have to go without their medication. Once this occurs, they may begin to experience severe withdrawal symptoms. In this article, we will detail some of the tell-tale signs of Valium (diazepam) addiction and when you should consider seeking help.
What Is Valium?
Before delving into the signs and symptom of Valium addiction, let's take a moment to better understand this medication and the primary reasons why physicians prescribe it. If you're not familiar with Valium, it also goes by the generic name diazepam. It is classified as a benzodiazepine and commonly prescribed to treat a variety of conditions including seizures, anxiety, and, in some cases, alcohol withdrawal. Valium is highly effective; however, it also very addictive as most benzodiazepine medications are. As far as the signs of addiction are concerned, the medication can be taken for months before any signs of addiction become apparent. The same can be said for behavioral changes as well.
Signs and Symptoms of Addiction
Commonly prescribed for its tranquilizing effects, Valium works to slow down the central nervous system. The misuse and abuse of this medication can intensify this suppression of nerve and brain activity. In addition, respiration, heartbeat, digestion, and urination can also be adversely affected by those who abuse Valium. It is also worth noting that abusing valium could lead to sleep problems as well as difficulty breathing, pale skin, and compromised motor coordination. Lastly, it is not uncommon for those abusing the medication to bruise easily or suffer broken bones due to diminished coordination while under the effects of Valium.
Additional signs and symptoms that may be indicative of chronic overuse of Valium include
Slurred speech
Lack of judgment
Impaired vision
Nausea
Vomiting
Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Feeling disoriented
Loss of appetite
Obviously, this list is not an overarching list of symptoms; however, it is some of the more common tell- tale signs of abuse/addiction.
Behavioral Changes
Along with physical impairments, behavioral changes are very common amongst those who abuse Valium. It is also worth noting that chronic use can lead to even more pronounce psychological symptoms as well. Some of the behavioral changes typical of valium addiction include:
Irritability
Heightened anxiety
Paranoia
Hallucinations
Irrational thinking
Restlessness
Those who abuse Valium are often preoccupied with both getting and using the medication, often without any consideration for their own health or well-being. Another common behavioral change is sudden and frequent need for isolation, which typically occurs as more time is spent taking the medication or recovering from the ill-effects associated with abusing it.
Also, it is not uncommon for those addicted to valium to lose interest in their jobs or home life as they become more consumed with obtaining and using the medication. The same can be said for hygiene and personal grooming, which become less of a priority, as the grip of addiction intensifies. Lastly, those who are addicted to Valium will exhibit uncharacteristic behavior. In many cases, those who are addicted may falsify prescriptions, seek prescriptions from multiple physicians, and may steal from friends and family as a means of supporting their habit.
In summation, Valium is a powerful medication that is effective in treating a host of physical and mental health problems; however, it is highly addictive and should only be taken as prescribed. If you or someone you know has a problem with Valium or any other benzodiazepine medication, you're encouraged to seek help as soon as possible.
To learn more, have a look at The Recovery Village.
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