Benzos are addictive. They increase levels of dopamine in the brain and cause tolerance. If you or a loved one has used these drugs excessively, you may experience signs of withdrawal, including uncharacteristic spending and risky driving. Read on to learn about the symptoms of Benzo addiction. Benzodiazepines are also addictive. Read this article to learn more about the risks associated with Benzos and how to get help.
Benzodiazepines are addictive
Benzodiazepines are a group of psychoactive drugs that have a sedative effect. Although prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders, they are often misused. They can cause addiction, life-threatening health complications, and death. People can be addicted to benzodiazepines if they do not get medical treatment and abuse them. They should never be used as a recreational drug. However, they are widely prescribed for insomnia and panic attacks.
Benzodiazepines are extremely addictive because of the way they alter the brain's chemical balance and hijack the brain's activity. Because they cause unique psychological effects, they should be taken in moderation and only for a short time. This is because they quickly build up tolerance and the dose must be increased to achieve the same effect. This increase in dosage increases the likelihood of dependence and cravings. After four to six weeks of consistent use, people experience withdrawal symptoms and may require medical attention.
They increase levels of dopamine in the brain
Benzos, or barbiturates, increase dopamine levels in the brain by inhibiting the body's built-in mechanism for limiting dopamine floods. As a result, benzos enhance dopamine release, facilitating the egocentric and social aspects of a person's personality. But these drugs aren't without their downsides.
Benzos' effects on the brain work in a similar manner to how automobile governors work. In cars, governors limit the speed of the engine. They kick in before 100 mph, preventing it from reaching dangerous speeds. Once this threshold is reached, the engine automatically slows down. The same mechanism affects the brain, with benzodiazepines increasing levels of dopamine in the brain.
They cause tolerance
Benzodiazepines can lead to tolerance and dependence after repeated use. Benzodiazepines' metabolism speeds up with repeated use, and the number of binding sites decreases. People who regularly take benzodiazepines often develop tolerance within weeks. Benzodiazepines may also lead to addiction, and addiction is often the first sign of benzodiazepine abuse. But tolerance can occur in anyone - it's not limited to people who abuse prescription drugs.
Tolerance to benzodiazepines may develop through repeated use of the same medication. The length of time that a person uses a benzodiazepine is usually only two to four weeks. Drug interactions with other benzodiazepines also contribute to tolerance. Age, physical health, and diet can also contribute to tolerance. Potentiation can lead to dangerous side effects, and benzodiazepines are a dangerous class of drugs.
They increase risk of seizures
As the use of benzodiazepines continues, the risk of seizures increases. In fact, people who have used the drug for less than a week have experienced seizures. The drug increases the risk of seizures by creating persistent hyperexcitability in the brain, leading to epilepsy. Low-dose users are particularly at risk, with seizures occurring within one week. However, the risk increases with prolonged use and stronger doses.
They can lead to Alzheimer's
Benzodiazepines, or 'benzos,' are common drugs used for agitation, insomnia, or anxiety. Unfortunately, they can also lead to an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. Benzodiazepines work by suppressing nerve activity, resulting in a calming effect on the brain and muscles. However, Benzo addiction can lead to Alzheimer's and may eventually lead to the development of dementia.
Although the exact causes of Alzheimer's disease are not known, researchers have found an association between benzodiazepines and dementia. One study suggests a direct link between benzodiazepines and Alzheimer's. However, it's important to remember that there are many safer treatments for insomnia and anxiety, including behavioral interventions. Therefore, it's best to not immediately stop taking Benzos.
