Valium Rehab in Orange County
Able to Change Recovery
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Amanda Stevens
Medical Content Writer
Amanda Stevens is a highly respected figure in the field of medical content writing, with a specific focus on eating disorders and addiction treatment. Amanda earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Purdue University, graduating Magna Cum Laude, which serves as a strong educational foundation for her contributions.
Valium, a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, can be highly effective for treating anxiety and muscle spasms in the short term. However, long-term Valium use can lead to physical dependence, cognitive impairment, and an increased risk of accidents and falls.
It also carries the potential for abuse and addiction, which can have devastating consequences on an individual's health, relationships, and overall quality of life. As the opioid crisis has shown, prescription drug misuse is a serious public health concern – and recognizing the dangers of Valium and seeking appropriate treatment for addiction is crucial for long-term healing from drug addiction.
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What is Valium?
Valium, generically known as diazepam, is a medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class.[1] It is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, and seizures, as well as to provide sedation before medical procedures.
Valium works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to produce a calming effect on the nervous system. This mechanism makes it effective in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation.
While Valium can be beneficial for managing specific conditions, it is essential to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional due to the potential for dependence and withdrawal symptoms. The drug can cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, particularly in older adults.[2]
Long-term use is generally discouraged unless absolutely necessary, as it can lead to tolerance and increased risk of misuse. Patients are often advised to use Valium for short durations and to explore alternative treatments for anxiety and related disorders whenever necessary.
In addition to its primary uses, Valium is sometimes prescribed for other conditions, such as alcohol withdrawal, insomnia, and certain types of pain management.[3] It can also be used in emergency settings to manage severe agitation or seizures.
Due to its sedative properties, Valium is often employed as a premedication to ease anxiety before surgeries or invasive procedures. However, it’s crucial for patients to disclose their complete medical history and any other medications they are taking to their healthcare provider, as Valium can interact with various drugs and exacerbate other health conditions.
Valium Addiction and Abuse
Valium can be highly addictive due to its effects on the brain’s reward system. When taken, it increases the levels of GABA, leading to feelings of relaxation and euphoria.[4] This pleasurable response can encourage repeated use, especially among individuals seeking relief from anxiety or stress.
Over time, regular use can lead to tolerance, where higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects. This cycle often results in physical dependence, characterized by withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not taken, such as anxiety, insomnia, tremors, and, in severe cases, seizures.
The potential for abuse is heightened by the drug’s sedative properties, making it appealing to those looking to self-medicate or escape from reality. Misuse may involve taking Valium in higher doses than prescribed, using it without a prescription, or combining it with other substances like alcohol, which can dangerously amplify its effects.
A recent study found that around 30.6 million adults, representing 12.6 percent of the adult population, reported using benzodiazepines in the past year. While the majority of these individuals (25.3 million) used these medications as prescribed, 5.3 million adults, or 2.2 percent of the population, misused benzodiazepines such as Valium.[5] On the whole, misuse accounted for 17.2 percent of overall benzodiazepine use, highlighting a substantial problem within the broader context of prescription medication consumption.
Valium Quick Reference Chart
Drug Category
Benzodiazepine
Commercial
& Street Names
Eggs, jellies, moggies, vallies
DEA Schedule
Schedule IV
Administration
Orally, nasally, injected
What Are the Symptoms of Valium Withdrawal?
Like many other substances and prescription drugs, discontinuing or reducing Valium after heavy use can lead to a range of unpleasant and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms. Some of the most common Valium withdrawal symptoms include:[6]
- Anxiety: Feelings of nervousness, restlessness, and panic can intensify as the body adjusts to functioning without Valium.
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep is a hallmark of Valium withdrawal. This can further lead to fatigue, irritability, and impaired cognitive function.
- Tremors: Uncontrollable shaking or trembling of the hands, body, or even the whole frame can occur as the central nervous system goes through upheaval.
- Sweating: Excessive sweating, particularly at night, is a frequent Valium withdrawal symptom as the body experiences disruption to its temperature regulation.
- Nausea: Gastrointestinal distress, including nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, is common during Valium withdrawal.
- Seizures: In severe cases, Valium withdrawal can trigger life-threatening seizures, particularly in individuals who have been taking high doses for an extended period.
- Psychosis: Some individuals experience hallucinations, delusions, and other psychotic symptoms during Valium withdrawal that require immediate medical attention.
What Treatments Are Available for Valium Abuse and Addiction?
Valium and benzodiazepine addiction can be a challenging condition that often requires professional intervention for effective recovery. Able to Change Recovery’s Valium rehab in Orange County offers a comprehensive approach to substance abuse treatment, utilizing various evidence-based treatment modalities to meet each person’s unique needs and promote lasting recovery with a customized treatment plan:
- 12-Step Facilitation Therapy: Introduces individuals to the principles of 12-step programs, encouraging participation in peer support groups to promote accountability and recovery.
- CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): Identifies and changes negative thought patterns and behaviors, helping individuals develop coping strategies to manage cravings and triggers.
- Contingency Management: Employs a reward-based system to reinforce positive behaviors, such as abstinence from substance use, promoting motivation for recovery.
- DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy): Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness strategies, focusing on emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness.
- Family Therapy: Engages family members in the treatment process, improving communication and support systems to aid recovery.
- Group Therapy: Provides a supportive environment where individuals can share experiences and strategies, fostering a sense of community and accountability.
- Holistic Therapy: Addresses the whole person by integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual health, often incorporating practices like yoga or meditation.
- Individual Therapy: Offers one-on-one sessions tailored to the individual’s unique challenges and goals, facilitating personal exploration and growth.
- Mindfulness-Based Therapies: Encourage present-moment awareness and stress reduction, helping individuals manage cravings and emotional distress more effectively.
- Trauma Informed Care: Ensures that treatment recognizes and responds to the effects of trauma, creating a safe environment for healing and recovery.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Valium Addiction Treatment and Our Valium Rehab in Orange County
Valium addiction typically develops through a combination of factors, including genetic predisposition, psychological conditions, and environmental influences. Individuals may start using Valium as prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, or muscle spasms, but prolonged use can lead to tolerance, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects.
This cycle can create a reliance on the drug for coping with stress or emotional pain. Additionally, some individuals may misuse Valium by taking it in larger amounts or combining it with other substances, further increasing the risk of addiction. Social factors, such as peer pressure or exposure to substance use, can also play a significant role in the development of addiction and substance use disorders.
Valium can remain detectable in the body for varying lengths of time, depending on several factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and individual metabolism. Generally, Valium has a long half-life, ranging from 20 to 50 hours, meaning it can stay in the bloodstream for several days after the last dose.
In urine tests, Valium can typically be detected for up to 1-6 weeks after use, while in blood tests, it may be detectable for about 1-3 days. Factors like age, health, liver function, and hydration levels can influence how quickly the drug is metabolized and eliminated from the body.
A typical treatment plan for Valium addiction often begins with a thorough assessment to identify the patient’s specific needs and history at the treatment facility. This may involve medical detoxification to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, followed by a structured rehabilitation program that combines various therapeutic modalities.
Individual therapy, group therapy, and family involvement are commonly included to address underlying issues and build a support network. The treatment plan may also incorporate holistic approaches, such as mindfulness and exercise, to promote overall well-being. After the initial treatment phase, aftercare programs are usually recommended to provide ongoing support and help prevent relapse.
When searching for treatment programs for Valium addiction, it’s essential to consider several key factors for your treatment options. Make sure that the program is licensed and staffed by qualified professionals with experience in addiction treatment.
Look for a comprehensive approach that includes individualized therapy options and evidence-based practices, as well as the ability to treat co-occurring mental health disorders. It’s also important to assess the program’s duration and whether it offers flexibility to accommodate personal needs. Consider whether the facility provides a supportive environment with options for family involvement and peer support groups as well.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Diazepam (Valium): Uses & Side Effects. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/20942-diazepam-tablets on September 24, 2024
[2] NHS. (2022, February 7). Side effects of diazepam. Nhs.uk. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/diazepam/side-effects-of-diazepam/ on September 24, 2024
[3] Dhaliwal, J. S., Rosani, A., & Saadabadi, A. (2023, August 28). Diazepam. StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537022/ on September 24, 2024
[4] Cheng, T., Wallace, D. M., Ponteri, B. B., & Tuli, M. (2018). Valium without dependence? Individual GABAA receptor subtype contribution toward benzodiazepine addiction, tolerance, and therapeutic effects. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, Volume 14, 1351–1361. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5973310/ on September 24, 2024
[5] Maust, D. T., Lin, L. A., & Blow, F. C. (2019). Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States. Psychiatric Services, 70(2), 97–106. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30554562/ on September 24, 2024
[6] Benzo withdrawal: Timeline and symptoms. (2020, April 9). Www.medicalnewstoday.com. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benzo-withdrawal on September 24, 2024