Did you know that the number of benzodiazepine prescriptions and the potency of these prescriptions have increased over the past two decades, with corresponding increases in emergency department visits and overdose deaths?
Benzodiazepines like Valium are primarily used to treat the symptoms of anxiety, seizures, sleep problems, and muscle tension. In 2024, 135,581 Arizona residents were handed a prescription for benzodiazepines. While the majority of individuals have a safe experience with Valium, some do not.
It is possible to experience a range of adverse behavioral, physical, and psychological effects, especially when using the medication longer term or in higher doses. Additionally, the continued use of Valium puts you at a higher risk of overdose, tolerance, and dependence. While this medication is effective in the short-term, there are a number of effects that can happen over time, which is why it’s important to be vigilant.
Understanding Valium side effects can help ensure the safe use of this medication. Let’s learn more about the different effects that can happen over time and your options for treatment. Wolf Creek Recovery provides comprehensive support for individuals experiencing Valium dependence or misuse, reminding individuals that it’s never too late to seek help.
Valium Side Effects Over Time
Valium (diazepam) is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to treat severe anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and insomnia. This medication is effective short-term, but using it long-term can lead to significant physical and psychological effects. These effects can occur even in those who take the medication as prescribed. However, they are more likely to happen in people who misuse the substance, such as by taking it more frequently or in higher doses. With continued use, a number of Valium side effects can occur:
Short-Term Side Effects of Valium Use
One of the most common effects of Valium is feeling excessively sleepy or relaxed. This sedation can be intense, interfering with daily activities, particularly those that require alertness. Many people also report feeling lightheaded and unsteady on their feet. Other short-term effects that can occur with Valium use are slowed reflexes and reaction time, memory impairment, blurred vision, and muscle weakness.
Long-Term Side Effects of Valium Use
The prolonged use of Valium can lead to significant physical, psychological, and social complications. Tolerance and dependence are the primary concerns. Over time, the body adapts to Valium, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. The body also has difficulty functioning normally without the substance. Other long-term side effects include cognitive impairment, sedation and fatigue, respiratory issues, muscle weakness and liver damage.
How Valium Affects the Mind and Body
Valium works by calming the brain and body through its impact on the central nervous system (CNS). While effective for therapeutic purposes, Valium’s effects can vary depending on the dosage, duration of use, and individual response. To ensure the safe use of Valium, it’s important to use the medication only as prescribed, schedule routine evaluations with your doctor, and consider alternative treatments, such as therapy and lifestyle changes. Let’s look closer at how Valium affects the mind and body.
Behavioral Signs of Valium Use
Misuse or dependency can lead to noticeable changes in behavior. Social withdrawal is common, as are neglected responsibilities like a decline in work or school. Mood and emotional changes are also routine, with people experiencing irritability, emotional blunting, or paradoxical reactions like increased anxiety or hyperactivity. People who misuse Valium also tend to have a preoccupation with the medication, constantly talking about it, anxiously awaiting the next dose, or hiding pills.
Since Valium is a prescription medication, it’s also important to be aware of secretive behavior, such as “doctor shopping.” This type of “shopping” refers to visiting multiple doctors to obtain additional prescriptions. People who are dependent on Valium may also purchase the substance illegally or mix it with other substances to enhance its effects.
Physical Side Effects of Valium Misuse
Physical side effects of Valium can appear even with prescribed or short-term misuse. They included drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, muscle weakness, blurred vision, and slowed reflexes. People who take Valium in high doses or combine it with other central nervous system depressants can experience respiratory depression or cognitive impairment, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and slower mental processing. The organs can also weaken, leading to liver damage, gastrointestinal issues, and cardiovascular effects.
Valium misuse also significantly increases the risk of overdose, particularly when combined with other depressants like opioids and alcohol. Know the signs of an overdose, such as extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, blue lips or skin, and loss of consciousness. If overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical intervention.
Psychological Side Effects of Valium Misuse
Valium not only impairs mental health but also contributes to a cycle of dependence and misuse. Common psychological effects include emotional numbing, memory impairment, cognitive fog, mood changes, cravings, increased anxiety and panic attacks, depression, and decreased motivation. High-dose misuse can lead to even more severe psychological complications, such as congitive decline, paradoxical reactions, psychosis, and suicidal thoughts.
Withdrawal symptoms are a hallmark of Valium use disorder and can also cause severe psychological effects, including:
- Severe anxiety and panic attacks
- Intense cravings
- Insomnia and restlessness
- Depersonalization (feeling disconnected from oneself or reality)
- Seizures or delirium
Treatment for Valium Use Disorder in Prescott, AZ
A Valium use disorder is a type of benzodiazepine use disorder, requiring a comprehensive approach that includes medical, psychological, and social support. Detox is typically the first step in treating the condition, as withdrawal effects can be severe and potentially life-threatening. To reduce withdrawal symptoms, Valium is usually gradually reduced under medical supervision. Withdrawal symptoms are also managed with specific medications.
To address the psychological components of Valium misuse, rehab for Valium addiction is beneficial. Professional rehabilitation programs offer comprehensive care, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), medication-assisted treatment (MAT), support groups, and relapse prevention. It’s also important to address co-occurring disorders that are common in individuals who use Valium (e.g., anxiety, depression, or PTSD). When these disorders are properly managed, the need for Valium is low.
Whether you or your loved one is in need of treatment for Valium use disorder, Wolf Creek Recovery is here for you. We offer a comprehensive recovery program that includes outdoor therapy, with team sports and recreational activities like camping, canoeing, and paddleboarding. These activities provide a creative outlet for releasing stress, building self-esteem, and developing healthy hobbies. To learn more about our programs and our approach to healing, contact us today at 833-732-8202. Build a life you love.
FAQs About the Side Effects of Valium
When is Valium prescribed?
Valium is prescribed to treat various medical conditions due to its sedative and muscle-relaxant properties, including anxiety disorders, muscle spasms, sleep disorders, and seizure disorders. It may also be used during the alcohol withdrawal process or to calm a person before a procedure.
What are the short-term effects of Valium use?
The short-term effects of Valium are primarily related to its sedative effects, occurring shortly after taking the medication and lasting for several hours. They include relaxation, sedation, drowsiness, fatigue, euphoria, slower reaction times, dry mouth, blurred vision, and gastrointestinal effects.
What are the long-term effects of Valium use?
The long-term effects of Valium may result in adverse outcomes, such as dependence, addiction, unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, cognitive impairments, and increased anxiety or depression. Many people who misuse Valium combine the medication with other substances, which can also be dangerous.
Is treatment available for Valium use disorder?
Yes, treatment is available for Valium use disorder, and it’s never too late to seek it. Detox is the first step, followed by individual counseling, group therapy, peer support, healthy lifestyle changes, and managing co-occurring conditions. Choosing a comprehensive treatment program will give you all of the tools you need to recover.
