Millions of people in the United States live with some form of anxiety. Research suggests that anxiety is one of the most common mental health conditions in the country. Surveys show that around 18% of the population experience anxiety each year.
Some people take anti-anxiety medications to manage this condition. Taking prescription drugs can help to reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorders and help to improve functioning. Two of the most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety drugs are Klonopin (clonazepam) and Valium (diazepam).
This article will explore the differences between these drugs. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of valium
- The effects and risks of Klonopin
- The differences between valium and Klonopin
- How to recognize and treat benzo abuse
- Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Living Room specialists to explore our treatment and support programs. Reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
The Effects and Risks of Valium
Valium is a prescription medication. It is used in the treatment of anxiety and other conditions, including alcohol withdrawal, seizures, and panic disorders. Valium belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines.
Valium and other benzodiazepines reduce activity in the brain and nervous system. Valium’s effects last a long time and can treat anxiety symptoms effectively. People take it by mouth as a tablet or in an oral solution.
Like other benzos, Valium has the potential for misuse and addiction. Doctors may limit the time patients can take Valium. In many cases, doctors advise people to use Valium for no more than six weeks to reduce the risk of physical dependence.
However, people may like the way they feel while taking Valium. The pleasurable side effects of Valium can make people want to take it differently than their doctor tells them to. People may take higher doses or use it without a prescription (recreationally).
Misusing Valium and other benzodiazepines increases the risk of physical dependence and addiction.
The Effects and Risks of Klonopin
Klonopin is a prescription benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA reduces the effects of adrenaline, a hormone associated with increased brain and nervous system activity.
People may take Klonopin to manage anxiety, panic disorder, seizures, muscle spasms, and insomnia. However, it has the potential for abuse and addiction. People may enjoy the sedative and calming effects of this drug. They may abuse it by taking higher doses or using it recreationally (without a prescription).
People who abuse Klonopin and other benzodiazepines are at risk of a life-threatening overdose. Combining benzos and other CNS depressants, including alcohol, increases the risk of overdose and other complications.
Understanding the Differences Between Valium and Klonopin
Valium and Klonopin are benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety, relieve muscle spasms, and manage seizure disorders.
While Valium and Klonopin work in similar ways and have common side effects, there are some critical differences between these drugs.
Half-life
The half-life of a drug is the time it takes for the body to eliminate half of the drug in its system. A drug’s half-life can impact how long it remains in the body after someone stops using it and the onset of withdrawal symptoms during detox.
The half-life of Klonopin is 30-40 hours. Valium’s half-life is up to 100 hours.
Method of use
Klonopin is available in tablet and orally-disintegrating tablet form. Valium is available as a tablet, injectable liquid, oral solution, and rectal gel.
Dosage
Dosage can vary, depending on each person’s needs. A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dose for each patient.
A typical dosage for Klonopin is 1mg twice a day. The standard Valium dosage is 5mg two to four times per day.
Recognizing and Treating Benzodiazepine Addiction
Doctors typically prescribe Valium and Klonopin for short-term use to limit the risk of addiction. However, some people still develop tolerance and physical dependence while using these drugs.
Recognizing the signs of benzo abuse and addiction can help you seek treatment as quickly as possible. Common signs of benzodiazepine abuse include:
- Loss of interest in hobbies, relationships, and other activities
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Falling behind at work, school, and other responsibilities
- Experiencing cravings for benzodiazepines
- Needing to take more of a drug to get the desired effects
- Using prescription drugs without having a prescription for them
- New legal, financial, or social problems
People with benzodiazepine addiction cannot choose to stop using these drugs. The way these drugs work can result in changes in the brain that make quitting almost impossible. People with benzo addiction require comprehensive treatment, beginning with a medical detox program.
After detoxification, people must continue treatment to address the complex physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of their substance abuse.
Find Treatment Now
Prescription drug abuse can harm your health and well-being. It can be challenging to overcome benzodiazepine addiction, but having the right treatment and support can help. Reach out to the team at The Living Room to learn about our holistic addiction treatment programs. Find support at any stage of recovery or schedule an intake appointment by contacting us now.
References:
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Any Anxiety Disorder
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Valium diazepam tablets
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- FDA: Klonopin Tablets
- Science Direct: Benzodiazepine abuse, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal among schizophrenic patients: A review of the literature