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Benzodiazepine Dependence

Valley Medical and Wellness Our Services Benzodiazepine Dependence

Valley Medical and Wellness

Chronic Pain Medicine & Addiction Medicine located in Burnsville, MN & Plymouth, MN

Prolonged use of benzodiazepines—even at therapeutic doses—can lead the body to adapt and become dependent. Over time, the brain and nervous system come to require the drug’s presence to maintain equilibrium. In this state, reducing or stopping the drug can provoke withdrawal symptoms and cravings, sometimes severe, which can trap patients in a cycle of continued use.

If you're battling a benzodiazepine dependence, Valley Medical and Wellness is here to help. 

Benzodiazepine Dependence Q & A

What is benzodiazepine dependence?

Benzodiazepines (often called “benzos”) are a class of medications that act on the central nervous system to produce sedation, reduce anxiety, relax muscles, and induce sleep. Common prescriptions include alprazolam (Xanax®), lorazepam (Ativan®), clonazepam (Klonopin®), diazepam (Valium®), and temazepam (Restoril®). When used appropriately under medical supervision, they can be effective tools for treating anxiety, insomnia, seizures, or other conditions.

Why does dependence develop?

  • Neuroadaptation: With chronic use, the brain’s GABA-ergic system becomes less responsive, requiring higher or sustained exposure to benzos to maintain the desired calm or sedating effect.

  • Tolerance: Over weeks to months, the initial effects (relief of anxiety, sleep induction) may fade, prompting dosage increases or prolonged use.

  • Physical dependence: The body adjusts its internal chemistry (receptor regulation, neurotransmitter balance) to expect the drug. Removal leads to imbalance.

  • Psychological factors: Anxiety, insomnia, or mental health conditions may return—or worsen—when attempting discontinuation, reinforcing the need to continue.

What are the signs and symptoms?

If you’re taking benzodiazepines (whether via prescription or otherwise) and are concerned about dependence, look out for:

  • Increasing dosage or frequency to achieve the same effect

  • Difficulty reducing or stopping use despite the desire

  • Anxiety, irritability, insomnia, or agitation when attempting reduction

  • Muscle tension, tremors, sweating, heart palpitations

  • Seizures (in severe withdrawal)

  • Cognitive difficulties, memory problems, concentration issues

  • Avoidance of social or other obligations to maintain access to the drug

  • Cravings or strong urges for the medication

  • Continued use even when aware of negative consequences (e.g. work, relationships, health)

Because benzodiazepine withdrawal can be medically dangerous (especially abrupt discontinuation), it is critical to have careful supervision and a structured treatment plan.

If you’re suffering from opioid addiction, don’t delay in seeking help. Call the Valley Medical and Wellness location nearest you to schedule an appointment today. 

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