Millions of people in the United States live with panic and anxiety disorder. Many people rely on medications to reduce the symptoms of these disorders. Valium is one of the most commonly prescribed anti-anxiety medications.
Valium is a benzodiazepine drug. Benzodiazepines like Valium have the potential for abuse and physical dependence.
This article will explore what happens when people stop taking Valium. You will learn:
- The effects and risks of Valium abuse
- Common Valium withdrawal symptoms
- The Valium withdrawal timeline
- How long benzodiazepine withdrawal lasts
- What treatment can help to manage withdrawal symptoms
- Where to find comprehensive detox and treatment programs
If you or someone you love struggles with Valium abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at The Living Room to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Valium?
Valium (diazepam) is a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, panic disorder, restless leg syndrome, and other conditions.
Medical experts believe Valium works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (brain chemical) that can slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. This can reduce anxiety symptoms and cause feelings of relaxation.
Effects and Risks of Valium Abuse
Benzodiazepines like Valium have the potential to be addictive. People may like the way they feel while taking Valium. This may lead to misuse. Valium misuse includes:
- Taking larger doses than prescribed
- Using Valium longer than prescribed
- Taking doses of Valium more often than prescribed
- Ingesting Valium differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets
- Taking Valium recreationally (without a prescription)
People who abuse Valium may experience unwanted or dangerous side effects, including:
- Loss of coordination
- Drowsiness
- Mood swings
- Aggressive or violent behaviors
- Loss of motivation
- Depression
Long-term Valium abuse can lead to physical symptoms of addiction. Some signs of Valium addiction include:
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms without taking Valium
- Cravings
- Needng to take larger doses to get desired effects
People who develop physical dependence on Valium may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it cold turkey. The symptoms people experience when withdrawing from Valium can make it very challenging to avoid relapsing.
Valium Withdrawal Symptoms
A cold turkey Valium detox can be very challenging. During the detox process, people experience acute withdrawal symptoms, including:
- Cramps
- Tremors
- Stomach pain
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Panic attacks
- Increased heart rate and blood pressure
- Mood swings
- Confusion
People may also experience seizures, especially in the first stage of the detox process. It is crucial to have medical supervision and treatment options throughout detox.
Valium Withdrawal Timeline
Valium detox can be very challenging. Knowing what to expect during each stage of the detox process may help you stay motivated when it feels difficult.
Here is an overview of the Valium withdrawal timeline.
One to four days
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms generally begin within the first two days. Early withdrawal symptoms include headaches, tremors, elevated blood pressure, and other physical symptoms. People may also experience mental health symptoms like anxiety, mood swings, and depression.
In addition to physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms, many people also experience intense, persistent cravings. Without the support of a medical detox program, people are at increased risk of relapse.
The acute phase of withdrawal may last for up to two weeks.
Ten to fourteen days
After the first ten to fourteen days of withdrawal, people’s symptoms may begin to change. In this stage of withdrawal, people may experience:
- Chills
- Nausea
- Depression
- Lightheadedness
- Fever
- Anxiety
These long-lasting symptoms may test people’s physical and mental strength. Support from a substance abuse treatment program can help people stay focused on recovery. It can allow people to stay on track, even when detox is long and challenging.
After around two weeks, people may begin to notice their symptoms improving. As people move beyond acute withdrawal, it is essential to find continuing addiction treatment.
How Long Does Valium Withdrawal Last?
Many factors may affect how long withdrawal lasts. These factors include:
- A person’s age
- Gender
- The amount of Valium someone used
- The length of a person’s addiction
- General health
- Body composition
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Other substances someone used
Generally, people experience acute withdrawal symptoms for about two weeks. After that, symptoms may begin to improve. However, some people experience lingering symptoms for several weeks after they quit taking Valium.
Treatment for Valium Withdrawal
Detox is usually the first step of a person’s addiction recovery journey. During detox, people receive tailored support that may include:
- Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
- Mental health treatment and emotional support
- Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
- Holistic therapies, including mindfulness, nutrition support, and exercise
Mental health and medical professionals provide constant support, supervision, and treatment throughout detox. This support can keep people safe at every stage of the detox process.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggle with Valium abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Compassionate, comprehensive addiction treatment is available at The Living Room.
Contact our intake specialists to learn about our treatment or recovery support programs. You may also contact us to verify your insurance coverage or to make an intake appointment.
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Valium tablets
- Science Direct: Diazepam
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Classics in Chemical Neuroscience: Diazepam (Valium)
- NIH: Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey
- JAMA Network: Benzodiazepine Discontinuation and Mortality Among Patients Receiving Long-Term Benzodiazepine Therapy