Diazepam, more commonly known as Valium, is a prescription medication commonly used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and the acute symptoms that accompany alcohol withdrawal. Classified as a depressant, diazepam is meant to slow down the central nervous system, resulting in a calming effect for the user, which is why it is also often used to sedate patients before medical procedures. Common side effects of Valium include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, constipation, blurred vision, nausea, a general sense of weakness and headaches.
When used as directed by a doctor, Valium can be both effective and safe. However, when used for extended periods of time, it can become habit-forming, particularly as patients develop a tolerance for the drug and begin to self-medicate with higher doses. If gone unchecked, Valium abuse can lead to addiction.
Signs of Valium Abuse
As the tolerance for diazepam builds and the addiction develops, abusers may begin to experience many of the following:
- Confusion and hallucinations
- Loss of inhibitions
- Aggression
- Signs of depression
- Suicidal thoughts or self-inflicted injuries
- Agitation and hostility towards others
- Seizures and/or tremors
- Loss of bladder control or urine retention
Treatment of Valium Addiction
When a Valium user starts continuously seeking higher dosages of the medicine, in an effort to duplicate the effects they felt when the drug was initially prescribed, they are considered to have a Valium drug abuse issue. In this case, it’s recommended that a user seek treatment for their Valium addiction.
It’s important to note that those who believe they have a problem should not abruptly stop taking the medication as it can lead to dangerous withdrawal symptoms such as tremors, shaking, cramping, seizures, and extreme anxiety. Recovering from valium addiction is a slow and gradual process, not something that can be done suddenly, or cold turkey.
Talbott Recovery has a number of addiction treatment programs for those seeking help for their Valium addiction. Our campuses are conveniently located in the Atlanta, Dunwoody, and Columbus, GA areas, and provide both day treatment and intensive outpatient programs.
If you or a loved one is in need of treatment for Valium addiction, Talbott Recovery is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment options.
