Valium (Diazepam) Addiction Rehab in Pennsylvania

Valium addiction is part of the greater problem of benzodiazepine abuse throughout the U.S. This powerful prescription medication is a common target for both intentional and unintentional misuse. What starts as prescribed or recreational use can quickly develop into Valium addiction. What’s even more alarming is that some people may not even realize they’re addicted.

What is Valium and how do people become dependent on it? How does the drug affect people and what can you do if you realize you have a problem? Continue reading to learn more about Valium, its effects, and how to find the best Valium rehab in Pennsylvania.

What is Valium (Diazepam)?

Valium is a prescription medication and is the brand name for diazepam. The medication is part of a larger class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Some other benzodiazepine medications include:

• Ativan (Lorazepam)
• Halcion (Triazolam)
• Librium (Chlordiazepoxide)
• Xanax (Alprazolam)

Valium is prescribed to treat anxiety disorders and seizure disorders. It’s also used to treat alcohol withdrawal in patients seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder. The medication also sees use for muscle spasm relief or before medical procedures to sedate patients.

Valium works by amplifying the activity of neurotransmitters called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Low levels of GABA lead to symptoms of anxiety so increasing it relieves feelings of stress and nervousness that a person experiences. The main effects of Valium are feelings of calmness and relaxation. It’s an effective way to treat anxiety because it reduces the high levels of stress and worry that come with the condition.

Unfortunately, even though it’s a prescription medication, Valium is also an addictive drug. Those who take more than the recommended dose experience a pleasurable, euphoric high along with its calming effects. Not everyone who uses it ends up abusing it but those who do have a serious problem. Drug addiction is a serious condition with long-term consequences if the person doesn’t seek treatment.

What Makes Valium (Diazepam) So Addictive?

The pleasurable effects and euphoria caused by Valium abuse make it an addictive drug. People who take more than recommended experience an enjoyable high. They continue using it to get high but can quickly develop a serious addiction problem. Some research suggests that as many as 20% of people using Valium take more than the recommended dose.

Valium also causes dependence when a person uses it for a prolonged time. Dependence refers to the physical or psychological reliance the body develops on a substance. Their brain and body adapt to its presence and eventually rely on it to function normally. Someone who is dependent on Valium will experience distressing symptoms when they stop using it.

The combination of pleasurable effects and eventual physical and psychological dependence make Valium addictive. This is why the medication is recommended only for short-term use. Risks of developing dependence are too high for ongoing, long-term use. It’s better to use Valium for a brief period as part of a comprehensive treatment plan because it’s so addictive.

Valium is a controlled substance with the Drug Enforcement Administration and classified as a Schedule IV drug. Abuse comes with significant short- and long-term risks. Seeking Valium addiction treatment in Pennsylvania is the best way to ensure safe and lasting recovery.

Benzodiazepine Addiction Statistics in Pennsylvania

The problem of Valium addiction in Pennsylvania and the U.S. as a whole is alarming. Benzodiazepine abuse is a serious issue that continues to plague the population. The following benzodiazepine and Valium addiction statistics in Pennsylvania and the U.S. may surprise you:

• Some research estimates that as many as 20% of people who use Valium abuse it
• 46.3% of people who abuse benzodiazepines say they do it to help them relax
• Most people who use Valium or other benzodiazepines also use another substance
• Between 2000 and 2010, treatment admissions for abuse shot up more than 500%
• 45.5% of people who attended treatment reported daily benzodiazepine use

Pennsylvania Drug Rehab Options for Valium (Diazepam) Addiction

Thankfully, those struggling with Valium addiction in Pennsylvania have options available to help. Addiction treatment facilities provide informed, comprehensive care that separates people from all substances. Various levels of treatment for Valium addiction in Pennsylvania are available. The right type of drug rehab depends on each person’s specific needs.

Drug Detox

People with severe Valium addiction often start with medical drug detox. Detox safely removes all drugs and alcohol from a person’s system while managing their withdrawal symptoms with medication. Severe withdrawal symptoms may be life-threatening so detox is a safe solution for people who cannot control their use.

Inpatient Rehab

Inpatient rehab is a residential option for addiction treatment. Facilities offer therapy, groupsm, and activities during the day and houses patients outside of treatment hours. Those who need more structure and support find that inpatient rehab is a helpful approach to drug rehab.

Outpatient Rehab Programs

Outpatient rehab programs offer a more adaptable approach to Valium addiction treatment. Not everyone can commit to a full-time inpatient rehab program with their existing responsibilities. Outpatient treatment options, like intensive outpatient programs, provide people with the help they need on a schedule that works for them.