Benzodiazepine Addiction

What Is Benzodiazepine Addiction?

Benzodiazepine or “Benzos” are a classification of substances commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders. They are typically prescribed as a tranquilizer to relieve anxiety or as a sedative to relieve insomnia. Benzodiazepines work by affecting the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. Given the chemical makeup, they create a rapid onset of effects often resulting in a sedative effect. Because they can be delivered in different forms, they will have different effects (i.e. tranquilizers vs. sedatives).

Since Benzos create dependency and potentially severe withdrawal symptoms, careful tapering or medical detox may be required. Regardless of how they are taken, they are chemically similar and can be misused. As the rate of diagnosis for anxiety increases, so does drug dependency for Benzos.

According to a 2020 survey by SAMHSA, roughly 4.8 million people ages 12 and older misused benzodiazepines in the prior year. Now more than ever, we need education and treatment to help address this disorder.