Benzodiazepine Dependence
Definition
Benzodiazepine dependence, also known as benzo addiction or benzodiazepine use disorder, is a condition where someone becomes physically or emotionally reliant on medications used to treat anxiety, sleep problems or seizures. These benzodiazepine drugs include well-known names like:
- Alprazolam (Xanax)
- Clonazepam (Klonopin)
- Diazepam (Valium)
- Lorazepam (Ativan)
When these medicines are taken regularly for weeks or months, the body can get used to them. Over time, a person may need more of the drug to feel the same effects. This is called tolerance. If the drug abuse is stopped too quickly, withdrawal symptoms can occur, which may be serious.
Alternative names
Benzo dependence; Benzodiazepine addiction; Benzo use disorder; Sedative-hypnotic dependence; Dependence on anxiety medication
Symptoms
People who are dependent on benzodiazepines may experience:
- Feeling anxious or shaky when not using the drug
- Feeling they can鈥檛 cope without the drug
- Memory problems or trouble thinking clearly
- Mood changes such as irritability or depression
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Using the medication more often than directed
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms can cause:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Fast heart rate
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Muscle pain or stiffness
- Nausea
- Seizures (in severe cases)
- Sweating
- Tremors
Causes
Benzodiazepine dependence can occur in people who take these medications for a long time 鈥� often longer than a few weeks. Even when used as prescribed, dependence can still develop. People who have a history of anxiety, depression or substance use disorders may be more at risk.
High-risk factors include:
- Combining with other drugs or alcohol
- Taking benzos daily for more than 4-6 weeks
- Using benzodiazepines without a prescription
- Using higher-than-recommended doses
Treatment
A health care provider should guide treatment for benzodiazepine abuse. Quitting 鈥渃old turkey鈥� can result in seizures and even death.
Addiction treatment may include:
- Alternative medications to treat anxiety or sleep problems safely
- Behavioral therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Support groups or addiction counseling
- Tapering the dose slowly over weeks or months to reduce withdrawal risks
In some cases, especially during benzo withdrawal, a person may need to stay in a hospital or detox center for close monitoring and care.
Outlook (Prognosis)
With medical help, most people can recover from benzodiazepine misuse. Some withdrawal symptoms, such as sleep issues or anxiety, may last for a few weeks or months. Ongoing therapy and support are often helpful in staying off the medication and managing anxiety in healthy ways.
Related specialties
Our locations
This entry was written by Jennifer Cruz-Urbano, marketing specialist, and reviewed for accuracy by Rachel Waters, Manager Regional Business Development, and David Fields, Executive Director FRC. Generative AI was leveraged as part of the content creation process.