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Also known as Benzo withdrawal fatigue, the “Benzo Flu” is a common symptom of benzodiazepine withdrawal. It can be treated with medication in a professional medical setting to help alleviate symptoms.
Other than fatigue, benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can include nausea, irritability, loss of appetite, insomnia, and more. In some cases, withdrawal can become dangerous, causing serious side effects and even death. Benzo withdrawal fatigue is part of a larger cluster of withdrawal effects and should be managed in a professional detox center or hospital to avoid complications.
What Is Benzo Flu?
Benzo Flu is a colloquial term describing flu-like symptoms experienced during withdrawal from benzodiazepines. Long-term use leads the body to rely on the drug, so withdrawal occurs as it readjusts to functioning without it.
The formal term is Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome, which can be treated by medical professionals in a benzo detox treatment center. Severity and duration vary depending on individual factors, but many centers use medications to relieve symptoms.
How Long Does Benzo Flu Last?
The duration of Benzo Flu symptoms typically lasts about 5–14 days. Most flu-like symptoms subside after two weeks.
Benzo Flu Symptoms
Benzo Flu is an uncomfortable part of breaking dependence or addiction to benzodiazepines. Treatment programs often provide medication-assisted treatment to help alleviate symptoms. Common symptoms include:
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Irritability & mood swings
- Cold sweats
- Increased heart rate & blood pressure
- Headaches
- Muscle tension & stiffness
- Tremors or shaking hands
- Nausea & vomiting
- Hypersensitivity
- Other flu-like symptoms
Benzo Flu mimics the flu but is caused by withdrawal. Symptoms can vary from mild to intense, including body aches, fever, sore throat, and coughing. Onset can be immediate after stopping use or a few days later, and symptoms generally last up to 5 days. In severe cases, they can extend up to 4 weeks, with some experiencing protracted withdrawal beyond the initial phase.
Side Effects of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
Benzodiazepines are highly addictive, and stopping them can lead to acute withdrawal symptoms. The two most common effects are Benzo Flu and Benzodiazepine Withdrawal Syndrome.
Benzo Flu mimics flu symptoms and affects many who have taken benzos. Withdrawal syndrome is generally more intense and depends on several factors:
- Type of drug used
- Duration of use
- Dosage
- Underlying medical or mental health issues
- Concurrent use of other drugs or alcohol
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Individuals who have abused benzos for long periods or at high doses may experience more severe withdrawal. Common benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms include:
- Sleep disturbance
- Irritability
- Anxiety & panic attacks
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Increased tension
- Heart palpitations
- Headache
- Muscular pain
- Hallucinations
The most common benzo withdrawal symptoms are anxiety and insomnia. These typically begin 1–4 days after stopping use and last about the same duration. For individuals experiencing Benzo Withdrawal Syndrome, symptoms usually persist 10–14 days. It is recommended that withdrawal occur in a detox facility for safety, rather than attempting a risky at-home detox.
There is limited evidence suggesting significant differences between various types of benzodiazepines. For example, Xanax and Valium generally produce similar withdrawal symptoms. However, using other substances, such as alcohol or illicit drugs, can increase the severity and intensity of withdrawal symptoms.
Treatment for Benzo Flu & Benzo Addiction
Benzos affect the central nervous system (CNS), producing a calming effect. When someone stops taking them, they often experience overwhelming anxiety and multiple physical and mental effects. Benzos slow all body functions, including walking, speaking, alertness, concentration, memory, and coordination. During withdrawal, individuals may feel disoriented and “off” as their body adjusts.
In rare cases, withdrawal symptoms, such as “jelly legs,” can be misdiagnosed as conditions like Multiple Sclerosis. The most effective medication for alleviating benzo withdrawal fatigue is often a benzodiazepine itself. Antidepressants like Zoloft can help manage anxiety and mood, while natural remedies such as magnesium, breathwork, yoga, and therapy may also provide relief. The key is to remember that withdrawal symptoms are temporary and will eventually pass.
What is Benzo Withdrawal Fatigue?
Benzo withdrawal fatigue is a reaction of the body during detox from benzodiazepines. Tiredness and lethargy are common as the substance leaves the body, reflecting the physical withdrawal process as chemical dependency is broken.
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Get Support for Benzo Addiction at Renaissance Recovery
If you are struggling with benzo addiction and need professional help, our benzodiazepine rehab program at Renaissance Recovery is here for you.
We provide individualized care, understanding that each client’s recovery journey is unique. Renaissance Recovery offers evidence-based treatments, including talk therapy, medication-assisted treatment, and community support to help you create a new life.
If you are wondering how long Benzo flu lasts, we are here to guide you with compassion and effective care. Reach out today at 866-330-9449 to start your recovery at one of the best benzo rehabs in California.
Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7841856/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7841856/
- https://www.healthywa.wa.gov.au/Articles/A_E/Benzodiazepine-withdrawal
- https://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/benzo.pdf
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