The acute phase of withdrawal typically begins within the first one to two days after the last dose, although this can vary depending on the benzodiazepine’s half-life. For short-acting benzodiazepines, withdrawal symptoms may appear sooner, while long-acting ones might delay the onset. Medical detoxification, under the supervision of healthcare professionals, can help manage and alleviate withdrawal symptoms.
Difficult tapers
- Emotional and psychological support is a vital part of the Benzo detox process.
- On withdrawal, even after years of benzodiazepine use, there is a marked rebound increase in REMS which also becomes more intense.
Some might experience mild discomfort for a short period, while others could face severe symptoms lasting for months. Factors influencing this variance include the type of benzodiazepine, the duration of usage, the dosage, and the individual’s overall health. Drug withdrawal reactions in general tend to consist of a mirror image of the drugs’ initial effects. Captodiamine is a diphenhydramine-related compound that does not work at histamine receptors as diphenhydramine does and its mechanism of action is unclear 70. This drug has also been studied in the context of both BZD replacement and withdrawal as a potential treatment 70.
The Post-Taper Recovery Period
This rapid onset can catch individuals off guard, making it crucial to be prepared for the early stages of withdrawal. Benzodiazepines are a class of sedative-hypnotic drugs used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. Common medications include diazepam, alprazolam, lorazepam, clonazepam, oxazepam, nitrazepam, temazepam, and chlordiazepoxide. These medications function by Sobriety enhancing GABA activity in the central nervous system, reducing neuron excitability and promoting calm behavior, sleep, and relaxation.
- With compassionate, tailored care, we help you manage symptoms and rebuild your life.
- Together, we help you build a life where freedom from benzodiazepines is possible and sustainable.
- Because of limited dose formulations, it may be necessary to switch to diazepam even if you are on a fairly long-acting benzodiazepine of relatively low potency (e.g. flurazepam Dalmane).
- The medication Romazicon (flumazenil) is sometimes used off-label for withdrawal symptoms.
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Interestingly, a lower prevalence of withdrawal symptoms was noted in the experimental group without https://peduli88.com/alcohol-substance-abuse-and-dependence/ any change in pharmacologic treatment from control group 73. However, this study included a small sample size, so a larger study using this standardized counseling method would increase the validity of the results of this study 73. More studies will need to be carried out on the non-pharmacologic treatment of BZD withdrawal, as it is showing some promise for the successful discontinuation of the drugs. Many medications have been tested to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and make it easier for patients to discontinue BZD since a gradual taper does not always lead to successful discontinuation of the drug.
Those who have withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines been on high doses of potent benzodiazepines such as Xanax and Klonopin are likely to need more time. Aside from the severity of symptoms tending to fluctuate, people report a wide range of experiences. A particularly severe or troublesome cluster of symptoms may predominate for a time, and then change to another cluster.
- This class of medication can be effective for short-term relief, but ongoing use of benzos can provoke physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon moderation or discontinuation.
- Possible factors contributing to protracted symptoms are outlined in Table 4.
- There is a set of well-established terms in common use in the online benzodiazepine withdrawal sufferer community.
Getting professional help ensures that these methods are customized to the individual’s needs for a safer and more successful withdrawal process. However, there is no need to drink extra amounts of fluid during withdrawal with the idea of “flushing out impurities/toxins”. However, there are some drugs which may help to control particular symptoms in withdrawal and which deserve consideration in certain situations though not recommended for routine use.