Valium Addiction

Those with a history of alcohol or drug addiction may be at a higher risk of becoming addicted to Valium. Some possible signs of Valium addiction include tension, panic attacks, memory loss, and insomnia. Because Valium addiction is a serious problem that requires treatment, you should talk with a healthcare provider if you start taking increasing doses of Valium or if you feel as if you cannot stop taking the drug.

 

An Overview of Valium Addiction

Valium® (diazepam) is a prescription medication used to treat several conditions, including anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms, and seizures. It is part of a group of medications called benzodiazepines. As with other benzodiazepines, there is the possibility of becoming addicted to Valium. Addiction or "dependence" is when a person feels like he or she needs to continue to take a medicine, even when no medical need is present.
 
Valium addiction is more likely if the medicine has been taken daily for a longer period of time or at higher doses. It is also more likely in people with a history of alcohol or drug addiction.
 

Understanding CNS Depressants

Central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants), sometimes referred to as sedatives and tranquilizers, are substances that can slow normal brain function.
 Because of this property, some CNS depressants are useful in the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. Benzodiazepines are one example of CNS depressants. Beside Valium, some of the more commonly used benzodiazepines include:
 

 

Barbiturates represent another class of CNS depressant medicines. A few examples of barbiturates include mephobarbital (Mebaral®), pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal®), and phenobarbital (Luminal®).
 
(Valium Addiction Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;