Benzo Withdrawal Treatment & Detoxification

Update: an article is updated in May 2019  

Benzodiazepine, or benzo, drugs include those such as Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, and Ambien. Benzo withdrawal treatment from this type of drug can be difficult on both the body, and the mind.

Benzodiazepines – also known as “benzos” or BZDs – are prescribed for a myriad of conditions, including as a method to treat anxiety; insomnia; muscle tension; and epilepsy. Over time, a user can develop a physical, and mental, dependency on the effects of the substance. Faster-acting benzodiazepines – such as bromazepam or diazepam – are associated with an even higher risk of dependency and addiction, due to the instant gratification that the user receives after ingestion.

This class of drug works by enhancing the function of neuron inhibitors within the brain, resulting in a sense of ease or sedation. During the first decade of this current millennium, the use of prescription BZDs increased by over 60%. More than 600 people are reported as dying from an overdose of benzodiazepines, annually, and many of those who die from other drug-related conditions are also found to have benzodiazepines in their systems at the time of death. Benzodiazepine can be a dangerous drug, and is made even more dangerous by the addition of other substances.

Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal

Benzo withdrawal has both physical and psychological symptoms. These symptoms can begin within hours after the last dose. These symptoms can be severe, and can range from nausea and heart palpitations to drastic mood swings and hypertension.

Within the first few days of benzo withdrawal, a former user can expect to experience an increase in anxiety and insomnia. This occurs due to the brain regaining normal function apart from the sedating effects of the benzodiazepines. Following this initial adjustment, the more debilitating symptoms of the withdrawal begin. This second phase of benzo withdrawal can last anywhere from 10 days to two weeks, and can include panic attacks; uncontrollable trembling; profuse sweating; nausea and dry heaving; muscle pain; and irregular heartbeat. In severe cases, the former user can experience episodes of psychosis and seizures during this acute phase of withdrawal.

Because these symptoms can have serious health impacts, making sure you benzo detoxification safely is our primary goal. We care for our patients who have benzodiazepine addiction with compassion, understanding and comprehensive treatment.

What to Expect During Benzo Withdrawal Treatment

We have a full-time staff that monitors your health before and during your benzo withdrawal treatment. We respond to any needs that arise and treat the discomfort of benzo withdrawal treatment with appropriate medications, administered when you need them. We work with your physician to ensure that all care providers are on the same page when it comes to ensuring your successful recovery, and our team of highly-trained specialists employs the most validated forms of recovery treatment. We utilize medications which can ease the physical symptoms of withdrawal, and can contribute to a faster removal of the effects of the substance from the body.

We also treat the emotional and psychological effects of benzodiazepine addiction that tend to arise as the acute physical symptoms subside. Many former users discover that the stress which was diminished through use of the drug tends to resurface during recovery. As part of your continued treatment, your mental and emotional wellness is supported by our team of therapists. You are invited to participate in holistic treatment sessions, which include group therapy; yoga; massage; acupressure; and Tai Chi. These sessions are designed to assist you in obtaining a sense of mental and physical connection as you transition to a substance-free lifestyle. This combined approach toward wellness gives you the best start toward recovery.

Your stay at Ascendant New York is further supported through resting in our serene, private, environment while partaking of our specialty menu. All of our delicious meals are prepared with your nutritional needs in mind, and access to beverages and snacks is available 24-hours a day.  Located in the heart of Manhattan, within a seven-story brownstone near Central Park, Ascendant has created a unique environment to help people take the first step towards recovery from drug and alcohol addiction. The new facility has been specifically designed to provide a luxurious place of healing that is serene and well-considered to provide the greatest possible comfort during withdrawal.

Life After Benzo Detoxification

Studies have shown that those who continue to receive care, following initial benzo detoxification, are more likely to be successful in maintaining their sobriety. After your initial recovery, we work with you to develop a plan for sustaining your goals. We can help you to arrange transportation for transitioning to an extended living facility, as needed, and we provide you with a comprehensive report of your benzo detoxification treatment regimen during your time with us. We also work with local outpatient treatment facilities, and provide you with a road map of what to expect as you continue your treatment while returning to normal, daily, routines.