Millions of people in the United States take prescription medications to treat anxiety disorders. Studies suggest that anxiety is one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health conditions in the country and that it typically responds well to treatment.
Some of the medications people take to manage anxiety and panic disorders have the potential for abuse and addiction. People who misuse their drugs or take anxiety medications recreationally may develop physical dependence.
This article will explore two commonly prescribed anxiety medications called Valium and Klonopin. You will learn:
- The risks and effects of these drugs
- The differences between them
- How to recognize and treat prescription drug abuse
- Where to find addiction treatment and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse, you are not alone. Contact the intake specialists at First Step Behavioral Health to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
The Effects and Risks of Valium
Valium is the brand name for a prescription drug called diazepam. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Doctors may prescribe it to treat several conditions, including:
- Anxiety
- Panic disorder
- Alcohol withdrawal
- Seizure disorder
- Stiff person syndrome (a neurological disorder that causes muscle stiffness and spasms)
Benzodiazepines like Valium reduce activity in the brain and nervous system. People take Valium orally in a liquid solution or a tablet. The side effects of Valium can provide short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Medical healthcare professionals typically avoid prescribing Valium for long-term use.
People who take Valium may like some of the drug’s common side effects, including relaxation and sedation. People may abuse Valium by:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking Valium more often than prescribed
- Using Valium for longer than prescribed
- Ingesting Valium differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
People may also use Valium recreationally (without a prescription). Misusing Valium can lead to physical dependence and addiction. It also increases the risk of other serious medical complications.
The Effects and Risks of Klonopin
Klonopin is the brand name for a prescription drug called clonazepam. It is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, panic disorder, muscle spasms, and seizure disorder.
Klonopin works by increasing the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA reduces central nervous system (CNS) activity and can produce feelings of calm and relaxation.
People who abuse benzodiazepines like Klonopin may develop physical dependence on them. Misusing Klonopin by taking higher doses or using it differently than prescribed can lead to addiction. Some signs of benzodiazepine addiction include:
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking Klonopin
- Having cravings for Klonopin
- Feeling anxious about running out of Klonopin
- Using Klonopin recreationally
- Needing to take higher doses of Klonopin to get the drug’s effects
- Doing illegal or sneaky things to get more Klonopin
- Continuing to use Klonopin despite the harm it causes
Doctors may limit the time patients take Klonopin during the treatment of anxiety. This can reduce the risk of physical dependence. However, anyone who takes or misuses Klonopin may become addicted to it.
Valium vs Klonopin: What are the Differences?
Klonopin (clonazepam) and Valium (diazepam) are benzodiazepine drugs used to treat anxiety, panic, and other conditions. While the effects of these drugs are similar, there are some crucial differences between them.
Here is an overview of the differences between Valium and Klonopin.
Dosage
The typical dosage for Klonopin is 1mg, which is taken two times daily. Standard Valium dosages are 5mg, taken two to four times per day.
Method of use
Klonopin is available as an orally disintegrating tablet or in standard tablet form. Valium is available in several forms, including oral solution, rectal gel, tablet, and injectible liquid.
Half-life
A drug’s half-life indicates how long it takes the body to eliminate half of the drug from its systems. This timeframe can affect how long it takes the body to get rid of the drug and can help determine when withdrawal symptoms may begin.
Valium’s half-life can be as long as 100 hours, while Klonopin’s is typically between 30 and 40 hours.
People must work with their doctor to determine which medication is right for them. It is important to be aware of the risk of benzodiazepine addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of abuse or addiction.
Recognizing and Treating Benzodiazepine Abuse
People may become addicted to benzodiazepine drugs like Valium or Klonopin when taking them as prescribed. The risk of addiction is much higher among people who abuse these drugs.
Signs of benzodiazepine addiction include:
- Having cravings
- Needing higher doses
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Legal, social, or financial trouble related to benzodiazepine abuse
- Neglecting responsibilities, relationships, or hobbies
- Wanting to stop taking a drug but being unable to do so on your own
Benzodiazepine addiction treatment can help people address the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of their substance use. Treatment typically includes:
- Medically supported detox programs
- Behavioral therapies
- Individual, group, and family counseling
- Mental health treatment
- Medication management
- Holistic therapies, including yoga, mindfulness, nutrition support, and more
- Relapse prevention education
- Aftercare planning and support
Overcoming benzodiazepine abuse and addiction can be challenging. Having the right support and treatment can help you reach your goals and work toward a healthier future.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with benzodiazepine addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to the First Step Behavioral Health team to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Klonopin tablets
- Science Direct: Clonazepam
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Valium tablets
- Science Direct: Diazepam
