Diazepam (Valium) Addiction: Symptoms, Effects, Treatment, and Prevention

Diazepam addiction is a chronic, relapsing condition characterized by the compulsive use of the drug despite the negative consequences. With regular use, the brain and body become dependent on Valium, requiring higher and higher doses to achieve the desired effects.

The signs and symptoms of diazepam addiction manifest both physically and psychologically; you may experience drowsiness, dizziness, slurred speech, and changes in your sleeping patterns, as well as increased anxiety, mood swings, and social withdrawal. 

The effects of diazepam addiction are far-reaching and potentially devastating. In the short term, you may face impaired judgment, memory loss, and respiratory depression, which increase the risk of accidental overdose. Over the long term, Valium addiction leads to liver damage, cognitive impairment, and a heightened vulnerability to other health complications.

The various treatment options available to help you or a loved one overcome Valium addiction include medically assisted detoxification, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and aftercare services. 

Some of the ways to prevent valium addiction include using the medication only as prescribed, recognizing the early warning signs of addiction, and developing healthy coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety without the use of substances.

What is Diazepam addiction?

Diazepam addiction is a serious problem that develops with the misuse of this benzodiazepine medication. According to Jaberpreet S. Dhaliwal et al in “Diazepam” (The National Institutes of Health, 2023), diazepam is a central nervous system depressant that has been widely prescribed for the treatment of various conditions, including anxiety, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. However, the brain and body quickly become dependent on Valium, leading to a cycle of compulsive use.

Over time, users develop a tolerance to Valium, meaning they need higher and higher doses to achieve the same effects. This prompts individuals to take the drug above their prescribed amounts or to use it without a valid prescription altogether. The cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with Valium addiction are tough to overcome on one’s own. Abruptly stopping Valium use is life-threatening, causing seizures, tremors, and other dangerous complications.

What are the Symptoms of Diazepam (Valium) Addiction?

The symptoms of diazepam (Valium) addiction include anxiety, nausea, dry mouth, and seizures. A 2022 research published by the American Addiction Centers titled “Valium Addiction Symptoms” confirms that addiction manifests through various physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms. 

Physically, individuals may develop an increased tolerance to the drug, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. They may also experience withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, sweating, insomnia, nausea, vomiting, and even seizures when reducing or stopping Valium use. 

Behaviorally, Valium addiction is characterized by compulsive use of the drug, often in higher doses or for longer periods than prescribed. Individuals may neglect work, social, or family obligations in favor of Valium use, and they may spend excessive time and resources obtaining and using the medication. 

Physical symptoms of diazepam addiction

The physical symptoms of diazepam (Valium) addiction include a pounding heart, dry mouth, and suicidal thoughts. These symptoms are quite severe and potentially life-threatening if not properly managed.

1. Pounding heart: As the body becomes dependent on Valium, the cardiovascular system becomes overstimulated, leading to a rapid, forceful heartbeat. This pounding sensation is distressing and may increase the risk of more serious heart complications.

2. Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a known side effect of diazepam due to its anticholinergic properties, which decrease the secretions of the salivary glands. Drugs.com explains in their recent article “Diazepam” that valium has an anticholinergic effect, reducing saliva production and leading to a persistently dry mouth. This is uncomfortable and makes it difficult to swallow or speak.

3. Suicidal thoughts: In some cases, the withdrawal from Valium triggers intense psychological distress, including suicidal ideation. This underscores the importance of seeking professional help during the detox process.

Behavioral symptoms of diazepam addiction 

The behavioral symptoms of diazepam (Valium) addiction include losing a job, having problems with the law, traveling long distances to fill prescriptions, and pharmacy hopping. These symptoms refer to the changes in an individual’s thoughts, emotions, and actions that occur as a result of their dependence on the drug. They include: 

1. Losing a job or receiving a bad review: As the addiction progresses, an individual’s work performance and reliability may suffer. They may start missing work, making mistakes, or neglecting their responsibilities in favor of obtaining and using Valium. This leads to disciplinary action, poor performance reviews, and job loss.

2. Problems with the law, such as drugged driving: Valium impairs cognitive and motor functions, which leads to dangerous behaviors like driving under the influence. This not only puts the individual and others at risk but also results in legal consequences like DUI charges or other drug-related offenses.

3. Traveling long distances to fill prescriptions: To avoid detection and maintain their Valium supply, individuals may go to great lengths to fill prescriptions at pharmacies far from their local area. This involves significant time and financial resources devoted solely to obtaining the drug.

4. Doctor shopping and pharmacy hopping: This refers to the practice of seeking multiple doctors and pharmacies to obtain more Valium prescriptions. This demonstrates the lengths individuals will go to feed their addiction, often disregarding the risks and potential legal ramifications.

A 2010 study published in the Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence titled “Prescription drug abuse and addiction: past, present and future: The paradigm for an epidemic” found that people who misuse benzodiazepines, like Diazepam, often engage in “doctor shopping” to get more of the medication and sustain their addiction.

What are the Effects of Diazepam Addiction? 

The effects of diazepam addiction are divided into short-term and long-term effects.

Short-term effects of diazepam addiction

Short-term effects of diazepam (Valium) addiction include impaired judgment, respiratory depression, and mood changes. These effects are immediate, acute consequences that occur from taking the drug, typically within hours or days of use.

1. Impaired Judgment

Diazepam is a central nervous system depressant that impairs cognitive function and decision-making abilities. Users may engage in risky behaviors or make poor choices due to the drug’s effects on the brain.

2. Mood Changes

According to a review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, misuse of the benzodiazepine drug diazepam (Valium) can lead to mood changes, including mood swings, irritability, and paradoxical reactions such as increased anxiety or agitation (Barkley et al., 2015).

3. Respiratory Depression

Diazepam slows down breathing and reduces respiratory drive. This effect is especially dangerous when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol, as it increases the risk of overdose and death.

Long-term effects of diazepam addiction

The long-term effects of diazepam (Valium) addiction include persistent drowsiness, confusion, and memory loss. According to the American Addiction Centers (2023) in an article titled “Long-Term Use and Severe Addiction of Valium”, the long-term effects of Diazepam (Valium) addiction include:

1. Persistent Drowsiness

One of the most persistent long-term effects of Valium addiction is a state of perpetual drowsiness and fatigue. Chronic diazepam use depresses the central nervous system, and this depressant effect becomes amplified with prolonged abuse. 

As a result, those struggling with Valium addiction may find it incredibly difficult to maintain alertness and engagement in their daily activities, whether at work, in social settings, or at home. 

2. Confusion

Diazepam (valium)’s effects on brain chemistry and neurological functioning disrupt normal thought processes and decision-making abilities. Individuals may struggle to concentrate, process information effectively, and make sound judgments, even when they are not actively under the influence of the drug. 

This confusion makes it incredibly challenging for those with Valium addiction to navigate their daily lives, as they may have difficulty fulfilling their responsibilities, maintaining meaningful relationships, and engaging in routine tasks.

3. Memory Loss

Prolonged diazepam use has been linked to difficulties in forming new memories, a condition known as anterograde amnesia, as well as issues with recalling past events. As per a 2023 study published by The National Center for Biotechnology Information by Kameron Kaplan et al titled “Benzodiazepine-induced anterograde amnesia: detrimental side effect to novel study tool”, Diazepam causes anterograde amnesia. 

The drug’s impact on the hippocampus, a brain region critical for memory formation and storage, contributes to these memory deficits. As a result, individuals struggling with Valium addiction may find it increasingly difficult to remember conversations, important information, and significant life events, which have profound implications for their personal and professional lives.

Can you take diazepam when you have high blood pressure?

It is generally not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure to take diazepam due to the potential for additive hypotensive effects, impaired blood pressure regulation, and an increased risk of falls and injuries. The combination of diazepam’s ability to lower blood pressure and existing hypertension leads to dangerously low blood pressure levels, which is particularly concerning, especially for older adults.

What are the Treatment Options for Diazepam (Valium) Addiction?

The treatment options for Diazepam (Valium) addiction include medical detoxification, inpatient and outpatient programs, medication-assisted treatment, individual and group therapy, support groups, and aftercare planning. 

1. Medical Detoxification

The first step in treating Diazepam addiction is often medical detoxification. This process involves gradually tapering off the drug under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety.

2. Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Programs

Outpatient programs are suitable for individuals with mild to moderate Diazepam addiction or those who have completed inpatient rehab. These programs allow individuals to receive treatment while living at home and continuing with their daily responsibilities. 

Inpatient rehab programs, on the other hand, provide a structured environment for individuals with severe Diazepam addiction. These programs typically last from 28 to 90 days or even longer if needed. It offers 24-hour support, counseling, therapy, and medical supervision to help individuals overcome their addictions. 

Data from the Rehab Center shows that In 2008, over 58,000 people sought treatment for benzodiazepine addiction, including drugs like Valium, with inpatient or outpatient programs depending on individual needs.

3. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

MAT combines behavioral therapy with medications to treat Diazepam addiction. Medications such as benzodiazepine antagonists or other medications may be used to help manage cravings, reduce withdrawal symptoms, and prevent relapse.

Information from a 2023 Drugabuse.com article titled “How to Treat Diazepam Addiction” highlights that medical treatment of diazepam “valium” includes switching to a different benzodiazepine medication, gradually lowering the valium dose over several weeks, and transitioning the addict from valium to a long-acting barbiturate drug. 

4. Individual and Group Therapy

Therapy plays a crucial role in Diazepam addiction treatment. Individual therapy allows individuals to explore the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and address any co-occurring mental health disorders. Group therapy provides support, encouragement, and a sense of community among individuals in recovery. 

5. Support Groups

Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), are beneficial for individuals recovering from Diazepam addiction. These groups provide a supportive environment where individuals share their experiences, receive guidance, and learn from others who have overcome addiction. 

6. Aftercare Planning

After completing a treatment program, aftercare planning is essential to maintain long-term recovery. This may involve ongoing therapy, participation in support groups, regular check-ins with healthcare professionals, and developing a relapse prevention plan.

How Do You Prevent Diazepam (Valium) Addiction?

You can prevent diazepam (Valium) addiction through responsible use, monitoring, and seeking professional help when needed. Here are some more steps you should take to prevent Diazepam addiction:

• Take Diazepam exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or take it more frequently than instructed.
• Avoid using Diazepam for an extended period unless specifically directed by your healthcare provider. Prolonged use increases the risk of dependence and addiction. 
• Regularly communicate with your healthcare provider about your medication use. Discuss any concerns or changes in your symptoms to ensure that Diazepam is still necessary and appropriate for your condition. 
• Be open and honest with your healthcare provider about your medical history, including any history of substance abuse or addiction.
• Avoid combining Diazepam with alcohol or other substances, as this increases the risk of adverse effects and addiction. 
• Build a strong support system of friends, family, or support groups who will provide encouragement and help you stay accountable in managing your medication use. 
• If you suspect that you or someone you know is developing an addiction to Diazepam, seek professional help immediately. Addiction treatment specialists will provide guidance, support, and appropriate interventions to address the addiction.

How does Valium addiction develop? 

Valium addiction can develop when an individual takes the drug in higher doses than prescribed or uses it in unintended ways, such as taking someone else’s prescription or using it to get high. 

Evidence from a recent article published by American Addiction Centers titled “Valium Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Overdose & Treatment” suggests that valium addiction can develop through these various factors and patterns of misuse:

• Using valium alone or combining it with other substances to enhance the pleasurable effects. 
• Taking the drug for its calming effects or to manage anxiety, but over time, they will become dependent on it, requiring higher doses and more frequent use to achieve the desired effects. 
• Both recreational use and prolonged prescribed use.

Overall, valium dependence is driven by the drug’s ability to enhance the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of calmness and relaxation.

What role does medication play in valium addiction treatment?

Medications are essential components of the detoxification and rehabilitation process, helping to manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and prevent relapse. 

Your doctor may prescribe benzodiazepine antagonists to alleviate acute withdrawal symptoms, anticonvulsants to stabilize neurological function, and medication-assisted treatment options like buprenorphine or naltrexone to target the brain’s reward pathways and support long-term sobriety.

What are the withdrawal symptoms of diazepam?

Withdrawing from diazepam (Valium) leads to a range of challenging and potentially dangerous symptoms, including anxiety and panic attacks, insomnia and sleep disturbances, tremors and muscle spasms, nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite, headaches, and dizziness, as well as sweating, chills, and fever. 

These withdrawal symptoms are particularly severe and even life-threatening in some cases, which means it’s important to seek professional medical assistance when discontinuing diazepam. That way, you will ensure a safe and successful detoxification process and effectively manage the withdrawal effects.

What are the different forms of diazepam?

Diazepam is available in several different forms, including oral tablets of various dosage strengths, an oral solution or liquid formulation, a rectal gel formulation for certain emergencies, and in some cases, injectable forms administered intravenously or intramuscularly. 

The specific form of diazepam prescribed will depend on the intended use, the individual’s medical condition, and the doctor’s assessment of the most appropriate and effective delivery method, and it is important to follow the instructions provided when using any form of diazepam.