Diazepam Addiction Side Effects

Diazepam, the generic name for valium, belongs to a class of drugs commonly referred to benzodiazepines. These drugs are mainly used in:

They are commonly used in reducing the withdrawal symptoms suffered by people recovering from alcohol addiction. These drugs have a tranquilizing effect and affect the functioning of the brain as well as the central nervous system. They are known to have anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, muscle relaxing, amnesic, and sedative properties.

Although Diazepam does not have a high addictive potential when used in the short term, prolonged usage would almost definitely result in physical and psychological dependency. The drug is not supposed to be taken for more than four consecutive weeks after which the addiction potential considerably increases.

The main cause for addiction is the buildup of tolerance in the body. In this case, after taking the drug for a certain length of time, the body adjusts to a particular dose of the drug and therefore will not react the same way it used to in the initial stages of the usage.

The person taking Diazepam no longer experiences the same anxiety reducing or calming effects as before unless there is an increase in the dose. While an increase in the dose may produce the desired effects, the initial sense of calmness will never be completely restored. The individual becomes trapped in a vicious cycle of addiction where he or she has to increase the dose every now and then as each previous increase becomes ineffectual.

Like any other drug, Diazepam addiction comes with a number of side-effects, the severity of which differs according to each individual. The side-effects and their intensity are subject to a number of factors such as the time period over which the drug has been taken, the amount taken and how it is taken. Factors like whether the drug was combined with other substances such as alcohol and other depressants also have a bearing on the overall side-effects an individual experiences.

Common Side-Effects of Diazepam Addiction

Serious Side-Effects of Diazepam Addiction

If these serious side-effects occur call for immediate medical attention.

Many people, however, are put off from seeking medical attention due to the resultant Diazepam withdrawal symptoms make life very uncomfortable for the individual who wants to break the habit of addiction. There are variations as to the length of time before the withdrawal symptoms set in. Although withdrawal is not particularly life threatening, the symptoms are quite unpleasant.

However, they can always be assuaged by seeking help from qualified medical practitioners. These professionals will guide the user on how to best carry out the gradual reduction process which minimizes the risk of withdrawal symptoms.