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Effects of Benzodiazepines
What to Expect from Benzo Side Effects
The effects of benzodiazepines include a high potential for misuse, abuse, and addiction. As such, physicians typically prescribe benzos only for short-term use.
These prescription drugs are typically used to treat anxiety disorders or panic disorders.
Benzos work by inhibiting excitement in the CNS (central nervous system) and in the brain. Taking benzodiazepines induces a sense of calm by intensifying the effects of a chemical that occurs naturally in the brain – GABA or gamma-aminobutyric acid.
What Do Benzodiazepines Do?
Benzodiazepines medications, also known as benzos, are some of the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and insomnia.
These drugs are nervous system depressants and work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps to calm the brain and reduce feelings of anxiety.
Benzodiazepines are typically prescribed for short-term use due to their potential for dependence and addiction. However, in some cases, they may be prescribed for longer periods of time to manage chronic anxiety, panic disorder, or sleep disorders like insomnia.
In addition to anxiety and insomnia, benzodiazepines may also be used to treat muscle spasms, seizure disorders, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. They are usually taken orally in pill form and can start working within minutes to hours after ingestion.
Some of the commonly prescribed benzodiazepines include:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
- Temazepam (Restoril)
While benzodiazepines can be effective in managing anxiety and insomnia, they also have the potential for abuse and addiction. It is important for patients to take these medications as prescribed and avoid taking more than the recommended dose. Patients should also be aware of the potential side effects of these drugs and discuss any concerns with their healthcare provider. In some cases, other treatments such as therapy or non-benzodiazepine prescriptions may be more appropriate.
What Is the Intended Use of Benzos?
Benzodiazepines are prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorder, insomnia, seizure disorders, and other conditions. They are effective in managing symptoms in the short term, but they are not intended for long-term use.
When taken for an extended period, benzodiazepine misuse can lead to a number of dangerous physical and mental health effects, including the development of an addiction.
It is also worth noting that benzos can help treat alcohol withdrawal syndrome by helping to manage some of the common symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal and early sobriety.
What Happens if You Take Benzos Every Day?
When taken as prescribed, benzodiazepines are safe and effective in treating anxiety and other conditions. That said, if taken every day for an extended period, benzodiazepine misuse can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
Dependence occurs when the body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug and requires it to function normally. Addiction is a more severe form of dependence, characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior despite negative consequences.
Physical Health Effects of Benzodiazepines
Physical health effects of benzodiazepines can vary depending on the duration and amount of use. In general, the physical effects of benzos can be divided into short-term and long-term effects.
Short-Term
Short-term use of benzodiazepines can lead to drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, reduced muscle control, and muscle weakness. These effects can impair coordination and attention, making activities like driving or operating heavy machinery unsafe.
Short-term use may also lead to respiratory depression, especially in individuals with conditions such as COPD or sleep apnea. This can reduce oxygen levels and lead to serious health complications.
Benzodiazepines can also affect memory and cognitive function, leading to difficulty concentrating and impaired decision-making.
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Long-Term
Long-term use of benzodiazepines can have a range of significant physical health effects that can impact an individual’s overall well-being. One of the most significant risks associated with long-term benzodiazepine use is the development of dependence and addiction. Dependence can develop over time as the body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug and requires increasing amounts to achieve the same effect. Benzodiazepine use disorder can also develop as a result of the drug’s effects on the brain’s reward system, which can lead to compulsive drug-seeking behaviors and difficulty controlling drug use.
Dependence and addiction to benzodiazepines can have a range of physical health effects, including increased risk of falls and fractures. This is because benzodiazepines can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion, which can make it difficult for individuals to maintain their balance and coordination. Falls and fractures can lead to serious injuries, particularly in older individuals, and can impact an individual’s mobility and quality of life.
Mental Health Effects of Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepine misuse or using benzos long-term is also associated with a range of adverse mental health effects.
Short-Term
The short-term mental health side effects of benzos include:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech
- Depression
These symptoms usually go away after a few days of treatment. However, if you experience severe or long-lasting symptoms, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Long-Term
Long-term use of benzodiazepines can also have significant effects on a person’s mental health. Chronic use can lead to cognitive impairments, memory problems, and an increased risk of dementia.
Studies show individuals using benzodiazepines for three months or longer had a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, especially older adults.
Chronic benzodiazepine use may also lead to depression, anxiety, personality changes, and an increased risk of suicide. Withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, depression, and insomnia may occur after discontinuation.
Because these effects vary, patients should work closely with healthcare providers to develop safe and effective treatment plans that address both physical and mental health needs.
What Is the Most Serious Adverse Effect of Benzodiazepines?
The most serious adverse effect of benzodiazepines is respiratory depression, which occurs when breathing slows or stops. This condition is life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.
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Can You Overdose on Benzos?
Yes, it is possible to overdose on benzodiazepines, especially when taken in large amounts or combined with substances like alcohol or opioids.
Overdose symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, impaired coordination, slurred speech, difficulty breathing, coma, seizures, or death.
If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 or visiting the nearest emergency room.
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Our programs include PHP, IOP, medication-assisted treatment, counseling, psychotherapy, family therapy, and holistic therapies.
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Sources:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/gamma-aminobutyric-acid
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