Benzos (benzodiazepines) are routinely prescribed to manage anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. This class of medication can be effective for short-term relief, but ongoing use of benzos can provoke physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon moderation or discontinuation. Benzo withdrawal can range from intensely uncomfortable to life-threatening, and it’s generally advisable to seek professional support when quitting.
This page explores what’s involved with benzo withdrawal and what causes it. You will also learn about the withdrawal timeline and symptoms and how to stop using benzos safely.
Why Do Benzodiazepines Cause Withdrawal?
Benzos enhance the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a chemical messenger that slows brain activity. This triggers relaxation and sedation in those taking the drug. The brain adapts to the presence of benzos over time, producing less GABA as a result. When benzodiazepines are suddenly removed, the CNS (central nervous system) becomes overactive, promoting the presentation of withdrawal symptoms.
Many variables influence the severity of withdrawal from benzodiazepines, including:
- Length of use: The longer someone takes benzos, the stronger the physical dependence.
- Dosage: Higher doses of benzodiazepines are associated with more severe withdrawal symptoms.
- Type of benzos: Short-acting benzos like Xanax may cause faster and more intense withdrawal than long-acting medications like Valium.
- Method of use: Taking benzos in ways other than prescribed—crushing and snorting pills, for instance—can raise the risk of withdrawal.
- Underlying mental health conditions: Co-occurring mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) can intensify withdrawal symptoms.
Common Benzo Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms range from mild discomfort to severe and potentially fatal complications.
Mild and moderate symptoms of benzo withdrawal include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Muscle aches
- Sweating or chills
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Appetite loss
- Tingling in hands or feet
Severe symptoms associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal include:
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Confusion
- Disorientation
- Paranoia
- Psychosis
- Delirium
Stopping benzos abruptly increases the likelihood of severe withdrawal, including life-threatening seizures. Medical supervision is strongly recommended to avoid these adverse outcomes.
The Timeline and Phases of Benzo Withdrawal
Benzo withdrawal symptoms differ based on the drug and the person. That said, withdrawal typically unfolds over three main phases.
1) Early withdrawal (rebound symptoms)
- Begins within hours to days after the last use.
- Short-acting benzos may prompt symptoms within 10 or 12 hours, while long-acting benzos like Valium may take 24 to 48 hours until withdrawal symptoms manifest.
- The symptoms that the medication was used to treat, such as insomnia or anxiety, often return suddenly and more intensely during this phase of benzo withdrawal.
2) Acute withdrawal (peak symptoms)
- Starts 1 to 4 days after stopping benzos, lasting for several weeks.
- This phase is incredibly challenging, involving symptoms such as nausea, panic attacks, sweating, and muscle spasms.
- The risk of seizures is highest during this stage of withdrawal.
- Severe cases may lead to hallucinations, paranoia, and psychosis.
3) Protracted withdrawal (post-acute symptoms)
- Can last months or years.
- Lingering effects might include depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cognitive difficulties.
- Symptoms often come and go unpredictably. Professional therapy can help manage long-term effects.
The Dangers of Quitting Benzos Cold Turkey
Stopping benzodiazepines suddenly can be dangerous. The brain has become accustomed to the continuous presence of the drug and struggles to self-regulate in its absence. This may bring about:
- Severe rebound anxiety and panic: Often worse than the symptoms the drug was initially prescribed to treat.
- Seizures: These can occur unexpectedly and be deadly if untreated.
- Delirium and hallucinations: Some people experience confusion, paranoia, or disturbing visual and auditory hallucinations while withdrawing from benzodiazepines.
- Suicidal thoughts: Withdrawal from benzos may cause intense depression and profound emotional distress.
Tapering off benzos slowly under medical supervision can help mitigate these dangerous scenarios.
How to Stop Benzodiazepines Safely
A gradual dose reduction enables the brain to adjust gradually, reducing withdrawal symptoms and minimizing the chances of life-threatening complications. Doctors often recommend:
- Decreasing the dose by 5 to 10% every 1 or 2 weeks.
- Switching to a longer-acting benzo like Valium to make withdrawal smoother.
- Using supportive medications to manage symptoms, such as anticonvulsants for seizures and antidepressants for mood regulation.
Medical detox and treatment options
For those prone to severe withdrawal, a medically supervised detox is the safest option. Treatment may include:
- 24/7 medical monitoring to manage symptoms and prevent complications.
- Medications like flumazenil to ease withdrawal symptoms.
- Behavioral therapy to address depression, anxiety, or other mental health issues.
- Nutritional support and hydration to help the body recover.
Coping Techniques for Benzo Withdrawal
While medical supervision is optimal, self-care and support systems can make benzo withdrawal more manageable.
Practice relaxation techniques
Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help ease anxiety and promote better sleep. Progressive muscle relaxation may reduce tension and physical discomfort.
Get plenty of rest
Establishing a sleep routine can help with insomnia. Avoiding caffeine and electronic devices before bedtime can improve sleep quality.
Stay hydrated and eat nutrient-dense foods
Dehydration and nutrient deficiencies can make symptoms worse. Eating whole foods laden with vitamins and minerals supports recovery.
Engage with emotional support
Talking to a therapist or joining a support group can provide encouragement and coping strategies. Families and friends can offer emotional assistance during tough moments.
Exercise
Gentle activities like stretching or walking can minimize stress and boost mood. Avoid overexertion, as this can worsen fatigue and anxiety.
Get Help Addressing Benzo Withdrawal and Addiction at a Premier California Rehab
Benzo withdrawal can be aggravating and unpredictable, but recovery is achievable with the proper support. At Tree House Recovery, we offer detox services to help you taper off benzodiazepines slowly, and we also provide emotional care to help you transition from detox to ongoing outpatient treatment.
When you choose a PHP (partial hospitalization program) or IOP (intensive outpatient program) at our beachside facility, you will receive immersive and structured benzo addiction treatment without needing to put your personal and professional life on hold.If you’re ready to unchain yourself from prescription drug abuse, call admissions at (855) 202-2138 and get immediate assistance and supervised benzo withdrawal.
