Many drugs that doctors prescribe to us can be dangerous if abused. Sadly, prescription drugs can be addictive and are just as destructive as illegal recreational drugs, causing physical harm and deteriorating the mental health of many.

A commonly prescribed drug in the UK is diazepam, and in Northern Ireland, doctors have rejoiced at the 13% reduction in prescriptions in 2023. Though diazepam can be helpful for some, it carries with it dangers due to the class of drugs it belongs to.

It’s important to know the class of diazepam, what this means, and how it affects you. Being fully aware of diazepam, its risks and why it is used can help you if you are already taking it or are considering taking it.

What is Diazepam?

Diazepam is a medication that is sold under many brand names, the most well-known one being Valium. It is a prescription drug and doctors prescribe it to patients who are suffering from mental health issues such as anxiety. It is also prescribed to people with muscle spasms, seizures and fits.

It can also be used in hospital settings to ease symptoms during alcohol withdrawal and before operations to help people relax. Usually, people take it in tablet form, but it is also available as a liquid or an injection in a hospital.

What Class of Drug is Diazepam?

So, what class of drug is diazepam?

Diazepam is a type of benzodiazepine, and it’s a class C controlled substance. Benzodiazepines are often referred to as benzos and also include drugs such as Xanax and Klonopin.

The main characteristic of benzodiazepines is that they affect the central nervous system. They depress the CNS, which means to slow it down, meaning there is less activity in your body and brain. This can produce many effects on the user, notably a sense of calm and drowsiness.

How Does Diazepam Work?

Diazepam works in the brain by enhancing the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This is a neurotransmitter that can slow down the brain signals, reducing activity. This reduction of activity produces a calming effect on you, making you drowsier and sleepier whilst feeling relaxed.

This calmness helps reduce anxiety and relaxes your muscles. It also stabilises neural activity and prevents the extreme firing of neurons, which is the cause of seizures.

Unfortunately, these effects can lead to drug addiction if you continue to take diazepam. Your body becomes used to the feelings of relaxation, and soon, you chase it, taking more and more to get the same effects.

What Is Diazepam Used For?

Diazepam has many medical applications. It is used to treat:

Diazepam is a prescription-only medication. In the UK, it is a Class C drug, meaning that without a prescription, it is illegal to possess, give away or sell. Street benzos are those sold illegally on the street and black market; many people buy diazepam illegally but have no way of knowing what they are taking is that drug. This has led to many overdoses and drug-related deaths.

Risks and Side Effects of Diazepam

There are many common, severe risks and side effects of diazepam.

Common side effects include:

  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Confusion
  • Headaches
  • Muscle weakness

Severe side effects include:

  • Respiratory depression
  • Severe allergic reaction
  • Suicidal thoughts and action

Developing a tolerance, becoming dependent and experiencing withdrawal are all expected if you use diazepam long-term or abuse it.

Is Diazepam Addictive?

If you use diazepam for a long time, tolerance is a real possibility. Your body becomes used to the effects diazepam causes and you soon need more to get the same effects. Quickly, your body can become physically dependent, needing it to function properly and withdrawal can occur if you suddenly stop taking diazepam.

Benzodiazepines are known for their high addiction potential due to the feelings of relaxation that they give users. The increased GABA levels become something the body needs, and anticipation of withdrawal can cause users to continue to take the drug to avoid the negative experience. This creates a cycle of compulsive behaviour, which can lead to benzodiazepine addiction.

Signs of diazepam addiction include:

  • Strong cravings
  • Continued use despite negative consequences
  • Social isolation
  • Prioritising getting and taking diazepam over everything else
  • Aggression
  • Paranoia
  • Dizziness

To avoid all this, you should only take diazepam as prescribed.

Alternatives to Diazepam for Anxiety and Other Conditions

If you are worried about diazepam, there are other medications you can take or things you can try in your life that will help with the management of anxiety and other conditions that diazepam treats.

In terms of medications, SSRIs are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) increase serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is important for regulating mood, and if you have higher levels, then your anxiety is reduced.

There are also SNRIs and beta-blockers, which provide relief from anxiety symptoms.

Outside of pharmacology, you could try therapy, which is great for improving mental health. Physical therapy can also help people who suffer from muscle spasms. Changing your diet, exercising, and practising stress relief techniques are all lifestyle changes that can help alleviate anxiety, muscle spasms and seizures.

Using Diazepam Safely: Important Considerations

It’s important to be reminded that even though diazepam carries with it risks, these are only likely if you abuse the drug. Safe use of diazepam is possible; you have to stay vigilant.

Follow Dosage Instructions

The troubles with diazepam will begin if you stop taking it the way you have been told by your doctor. Taking a larger dose, double dosing if you miss one and taking diazepam more often can all lead to you becoming dependent.

Don’t Mix With Other Substances

Diazepam can interact badly with other substances, such as alcohol, which can bring unintended effects. Mixing drugs can increase the effects and toxicity and lead to overdoses, especially if combined with opiates, which will also depress your respiratory system. This can lead to you stopping to breathe.

Discuss Concerns

If you have any questions or worries, you should reach out to your healthcare provider. They are there to help and may adjust your dose or take you off it completely if you are concerned about misuse.

Gradual Tapering

If you want to stop using diazepam, an at-home detox is possible. You should gradually wean yourself off diazepam, taking a little less each week to give your body time to readjust to the absence of the drug.

Find Support for Diazepam Misuse Today

Diazepam is a useful drug for a short time. Unfortunately, it belongs to a class of drugs that has a high addiction potential, so you should be cautious if you are considering taking it for anxiety or another condition.

At Asana Lodge, we can help you if you are suffering. We are a drug and alcohol rehab that provides expert addiction care and can help you kickstart your recovery journey.

For more information, get in touch today.

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