You may be prescribed benzodiazepines to address anxiety or sleep issues. However, tolerance builds over time, leading to increased doses and dependency. Alternatively, you may be exposed to illicit benzodiazepines which poses a specific set of dangers including counterfeit prescription drugs that are commonly laced with fentanyl.
Either way, addiction may manifest in neglecting responsibilities, social withdrawal, and using the drug to avoid benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms rather than its intended purpose.
Without intervention, long-term substance abuse can lead to substance use disorder, cognitive decline, liver damage, and exacerbated mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
Benzodiazepine Abuse and Neglect
Benzodiazepine misuse often starts subtly, you might find yourself needing to take higher doses or using the medication for longer than prescribed. As addiction progresses, it can lead to neglect of personal care, work, and relationships. The cycle of abuse can cause:
- Physical Harm: Liver damage, gastrointestinal issues, or neurological problems.
- Mental Strain: Increased anxiety, mood swings, or memory impairment.
- Risky Behaviors: Combining benzodiazepines with other drugs, which raises the risk of overdose.