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Reviewed by Benzodiazepines (benzos) are commonly prescribed medications that target specific receptors in the central nervous system to manage conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and panic disorders.
While effective in the short term, they are often used for extended periods, sometimes years, which can lead to complications such as the risk of physiological dependence. Data shows that up to 44% of long-term benzodiazepine users have persistent moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms when they attempt to discontinue the drug.
Since the withdrawal syndrome can be distressing, the drug detox process is essential after treatment. Keep reading to learn insights about benzodiazepine detox and withdrawal.
Table Of Contents:
What Is Benzo Detox?
Benzodiazepine detox, often referred to as โbenzo detox,โ is the process of safely discontinuing the use of benzodiazepine medications after prolonged use. These medications include popular prescriptions like:
- Xanax (Alprazolam) for anxiety disorders (generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder).
- Valium (Diazepam) for muscle spasms, anxiety, seizures, and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
- Ativan (Lorazepam) is used for managing anxiety disorders and for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms.
Benzos are recommended for short-term use, no more than 2โ4 weeks. Still, they are routinely prescribed and taken for much longer periods, sometimes extending for years. When taken for extended periods, benzodiazepines can lead to physiological dependence.
This means that the body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug, and sudden cessation can trigger withdrawal symptoms. Benzodiazepine detox typically involves a gradual tapering of the medication rather than abrupt discontinuation. This tapering process helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduces the risk of severe complications.
What Is Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome?
Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome (BWS) is a cluster of symptoms that can occur when a person who has been using benzodiazepinesโeither prescribed or illicitlyโsuddenly reduces or stops their intake after a prolonged period. This syndrome is very common during the detox process.
This syndrome results from the body’s physiological dependence on the drug, leading to a range of distressing symptoms that can vary in severity and duration. BWS can manifest in several ways, and symptoms can be categorized into physical, psychological, and cognitive effects.
Benzo Detox Symptoms
Benzodiazepine detoxification can lead to a variety of withdrawal symptoms, which may vary in intensity and duration depending on factors such as the specific benzodiazepine used, the length of time it has been taken, the dosage, and individual physiology.
Common symptoms include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Muscle tension and pain
- Tremors
- Sweating
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Seizures
- Irritability
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Confusion
- Memory impairment
Given the potential severity of symptoms associated with BWS, it is crucial for individuals undergoing benzodiazepine detoxification to do so under medical supervision.
Benzo Detox Medications
During benzodiazepine detoxification, certain medications may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce discomfort, and facilitate a safer and more effective recovery process. The choice of medication will depend on individual needs, the specific benzodiazepine involved, and the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
If you think you will need medication, you can discuss with your healthcare provider the following options:
| Medication Class | Medication Name | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Acting Benzodiazepines | Clonazepam (Klonopin) | Mitigates withdrawal symptoms; gradual tapering |
| Diazepam (Valium) | Stabilizes withdrawal symptoms; gradual tapering | |
| Antidepressants | Sertraline (Zoloft) | Manages anxiety and depression during detox |
| Fluoxetine (Prozac) | Alleviates withdrawal-related mood symptoms | |
| Venlafaxine (Effexor) | Addresses anxiety and depressive symptoms | |
| Anticonvulsants | Gabapentin (Neurontin) | Reduces anxiety; treats withdrawal symptoms. |
| Carbamazepine (Tegretol) | Prevents seizures; stabilizes mood | |
| Beta-Blockers | Propranolol (Inderal) | Manages physical symptoms of anxiety (i.e., tremors, rapid heartbeat) |
| Supportive Medications | Zolpidem (Ambien) | Aids with insomnia (used cautiously) |
| Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) | Assists with sleep and anxiety (OTC option) |
Data show that these medications are not well-established as effective for discontinuing benzodiazepines (BZDs). Nonetheless, a pharmacological approach may be an alternative to the sudden cessation of BZDs.
Despite certain limitations, it is important to taper off BZDs after extended use. This process should be conducted to respect the individualโs dignity and minimize discomfort.
How Long Does Benzo Detox Last?
Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome is a complex phenomenon that poses significant challenges in terms of definition and measurement.
Withdrawal symptoms that arise within the first week after stopping benzodiazepine use often overlap with more persistent symptoms that can last for many months, depending on the specific type of benzodiazepine used.
Find below a standard time guide for benzodiazepine detoxing:
Benzo Detox Timeline
| Benzodiazepine Type | Examples | Duration of Detox Symptoms | Typical Onset of Withdrawal Symptoms | Duration of Withdrawal Symptoms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Acting Benzodiazepines | Alprazolam (Xanax) | 1-4 weeks | 6-12 hours after the last dose | 1-2 weeks |
| Lorazepam (Ativan) | ||||
| Medium-Acting Benzodiazepines | Temazepam (Restoril) | 2-4 weeks | 24-48 hours after the last dose | 2-4 weeks |
| Diazepam (Valium) | 24-72 hours after the last dose | |||
| Long-Acting Benzodiazepines | Clonazepam (Klonopin) | 4-8 weeks | 1-3 days after the last dose | 4-8 weeks |
| Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) |
The most common initial symptom is a short-lived โreboundโ anxiety and insomnia, which typically emerges within 1 to 4 days of discontinuation, influenced by the half-life of the benzo type.
The second pattern is characterized by a full-blown withdrawal syndrome that usually lasts 10 to 14 days. Lastly, a third pattern may indicate the return of pre-existing anxiety symptoms, which can persist until some form of treatment is implemented.
How To Detox From Benzo?
Detoxing from benzodiazepines requires a carefully monitored approach to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety. Given the risks associated with stopping benzodiazepines abruptly, a structured detox process is essential.
Below are important steps to follow when detoxing from benzodiazepines:
Seek Medical Supervision
Benzodiazepine detox should always be conducted under the guidance of an addiction specialist or healthcare provider.
Abrupt cessation, especially after long-term use, can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures and extreme anxiety. A medically supervised detox provides tailored care, including the potential use of medications to manage symptoms.
Tapering Off
The most common and safest method of benzo detox is gradual tapering.
This involves reducing the dosage of benzodiazepines slowly over time, allowing the body to adjust to lower levels of the drug. The tapering process varies for each person, depending on the type of benzodiazepine used, dosage, and duration of use.
Tapering schedules typically last weeks to months to prevent severe withdrawal symptoms. Sometimes, healthcare providers may prescribe the detox medications we mentioned to help you.
Supportive Care
Emotional and psychological support is crucial during benzo detox. Therapy, counseling, or support groups can help individuals cope with the mental challenges of withdrawal. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often recommended to help manage anxiety and insomnia, which are expected during the detox phase.
Post-Detox Support
Detox is just the first step in recovery. Following detox, itโs essential to have a comprehensive treatment plan to address the underlying reasons for benzodiazepine use. Ongoing therapy, counseling, or participation in support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery can help prevent relapse and manage any long-term psychological effects.
Can You Benzo Detox at Home?
Detoxing from home is possible but not recommended without medical supervision due to the risks and complications associated with withdrawal. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can lead to severe symptoms and even life-threatening complications in some cases.
Sudden cessation can lead to a โreboundโ effect, where anxiety and insomnia return more intensely than before, making it difficult to manage at home. Without medical supervision or a structured plan, the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms often leads to relapse, making it harder to quit benzodiazepines in the long run.
Find Benzo Detox Near Me
If you or a loved one is seeking help for benzodiazepine dependency, finding a professional detox center is crucial for a safe and effective recovery.
Many addiction treatment centers offer specialized benzo detox programs tailored to your specific needs, ensuring that the withdrawal process is medically supervised and managed. To find a benzodiazepine detox center near you, you can consider the following tips:
- Contact your primary care doctor or an addiction medicine specialist for local recommendations.
- Ensure that organizations like The Joint Commission or CARF accredit the facility.
- The facility should have a team of experienced medical professionals.
- Discuss with a healthcare provider to determine the best level of care (inpatient or outpatient rehab).
- Research reviews from past patients to learn about the centerโs reputation and quality of care.
- Contact your insurance provider to find out what treatment options are covered.
- Choose a center that offers follow-up care or can connect you with ongoing support services.
Donโt Get Caught Up in Addiction
Benzodiazepine addiction can gradually take hold, affecting both your physical health and mental well-being. The detox process is a critical first step to recovery, but it must be approached carefully to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.
Proper medical supervision, support, and resources make it possible to navigate detox safely. Whether it’s through gradual tapering, managing symptoms with medication, or emotional support, detox should always be approached with a plan that prioritizes your safety and dignity.
If you or someone you care about is struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, reach out for local help today.
People Also Ask
What are the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal?
Symptoms include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tremors, sweating, headaches, muscle pain, heart palpitations, and, in severe cases, seizures, hallucinations, and psychosis.
When does benzo withdrawal peak?
Benzo withdrawal typically peaks between 1-2 weeks after discontinuation, depending on the drug’s half-life, with symptoms gradually subsiding afterward.
What happens if you stop taking diazepam suddenly?
Sudden cessation of diazepam can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, seizures, tremors, and even life-threatening complications due to physical dependence on the drug.
Page Sources
- Reid Finlayson, A. J., Macoubrie, J., Huff, C., Foster, D. E., & Martin, P. R. (2022). Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: An Internet survey. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, 12. https://doi.org/10.1177/20451253221082386
- Pรฉtursson, H. (1994). The benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. Addiction, 89(11), 1455โ1459. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1360-0443.1994.tb03743.x
- Huff, C., Reidย Finlayson, A. J., Foster, D. E., & Martin, P. R. (2023). Enduring neurological sequelae of benzodiazepine use: An Internet survey. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology. https://doi.org/10.1177/20451253221145561
- Fluyau, D., Revadigar, N., & Manobianco, B. E. (2018). Challenges of the pharmacological management of benzodiazepine withdrawal, dependence, and discontinuation. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, 8(5), 147-168. https://doi.org/10.1177/2045125317753340
