While they might not make the headlines as opioids and stimulants do, benzodiazepines such as Valium play a substantial role in the substance abuse crisis in the U.S. To appreciate the extent of this issue, consider a study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which revealed that an estimated 5.3 million people misuse diazepam. The average misuser is between 18 and 25 years old. Many of those who currently misuse this benzo started out taking it for legitimate medical reasons but later began using it in ways that contradicted their physician’s instructions, leading to addiction.
The NIH study also highlighted that around 17% of individuals taking benzodiazepines, particularly alprazolam or Valium, misuse them. This misuse often leads to dangerous consequences, such as addiction and benzodiazepine withdrawal, which can be severe and require proper medical supervision.
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How Long Does It Take for Valium to Start Working?
Along with anxiety and sleeplessness, many physicians prescribe Valium to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms, muscle spasms, athetosis, seizures, and stiff person syndrome (SPS). Valium use generally takes effect within an hour of administration to treat these conditions, but for some, it can act faster, typically within 15 to 30 minutes. The effects of diazepam can vary depending on the dosage and individual tolerance. For those taking it to combat anxiety, seizures, or muscle spasms, the typical dose of diazepam is around 2 mg taken orally up to 4 times daily, as prescribed by a physician.
However, misuse often leads to much higher doses being consumed, with individuals taking high doses in an attempt to achieve quicker effects or a more intense high. Over time, this misuse builds tolerance, requiring even more frequent or higher doses to achieve the same effect. As tolerance develops, users may require much more than their last dose to feel any significant relief, leading to dependency and, eventually, addiction. Questions like “How long does Valium last?” become relevant as misusers adjust their behavior to accommodate the drug’s longevity in the body.
| Method of Administration | Onset of Action | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Oral | 15-60 minutes | Common for anxiety and sedation |
| Intravenous (IV) | 1-5 minutes | Used in emergency settings |
| Intramuscular (IM) | 15-30 minutes | Alternative when IV is not feasible |
Additional Facts Everyone Should Know About Valium
One of the most troubling aspects of substance abuse in America is some issues never get the attention they deserve. Some even get intentionally or unintentionally swept under the proverbial rug. Both are the case when it comes to drug statistics. For example, along with 18- to 25-year-olds, 0.6% of individuals aged 65 and older also misuse Valium and other benzodiazepines. Of course, the troubling data related to the misuse of Valium and similar drugs do not end there. Available data show adults aged 50 and older are far more likely than younger adults to misuse medications in this class. Further, they are more likely than younger adults to use them to help with sleep. Among all ages, misuse of benzodiazepines often leads to abuse or dependence on opioids or stimulants.
Why Makes Valium So Addictive?
To better understand what makes Valium so addictive, it helps to know a little more about the drug and its metabolites, as well as what it does to individuals who use it. When someone takes Valium, it triggers an uptick in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter for the central nervous system (CNS), and its role is to reduce neuronal excitability by inhibiting nerve transmission.
When someone takes benzodiazepines, such as Valium, as directed, the increased production of GABA promotes a sense of calm. This is why many physicians consider Valium a go-to drug for treating anxiety and sleeplessness. However, long-term use or drug abuse can lead to physical dependence on the drug. Prolonged exposure to above-average levels of GABA can make Valium highly addictive. Many individuals become addicted to Valium after just 4 to 6 weeks of regular use.
Short-term use can help manage symptoms, but extended use increases the risk of addiction. Valium and its metabolites stay in the body for extended periods, which is why it often shows up in urine tests and other drug tests for several days after drug use. This persistence in the body contributes to addiction risks and makes detoxing from Valium challenging.
Some of the most common signs of Valium or benzodiazepine addiction include the following:
- Intense cravings
- An unyielding desire to isolate from family and friends
- Losing interest in previously enjoyable activities
- Ignoring work or family obligations
How Long Do the Effects of Valium Last?
When individuals take valium, the drug reaches its peak concentration within about an hour. The psychological and physiological effects of the drug can last 4 to 6 hours, but the drug can remain in one’s system for much longer. Depending on the dose someone has been taking, how long they have been using, and whether or not they combine it with other drugs, Valium can take several days or even weeks to leave the body entirely. For reference, the half-life of Valium is 20 hours.
What Happens When You Suddenly Stop Taking Valium?
When someone suddenly stops taking Valium, they experience a wide range of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. For this reason, many addiction experts encourage these individuals to seek treatment in an inpatient program, which can last anywhere from 30 to 120 days. Some of these withdrawal symptoms individuals often face while detoxing from Valium include the following:
- Headaches
- Nausea and vomiting
- Abdominal Pain
- Cramps
- Tremors
- Elevated blood pressure
- Changes in heart rate
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Intense cravings
- Mood swings
The withdrawal symptoms brought on by detoxing from Valium can last 7 to 10 days. One benefit of going to an inpatient program is access to medication-assisted detox. This aspect of addiction recovery involves round-the-clock monitoring by a licensed physician or nurse and FDA-approved drugs to make it slightly easier to cope with severe withdrawal symptoms. Some of the FDA-approved drugs commonly prescribed in rehab facilities across the country include the following:
- Methadone
- Buprenorphine
- Naltrexone
- Acamprosate
- Disulfiram
- Lofexidine
In addition to medication-assisted detox, many rehab facilities offer counseling sessions with a licensed therapist. These sessions help individuals overcome the psychological aspects of quitting Valium, a schedule IV prescription drug, while teaching them how to cope with cravings, temptation, and other triggers that could potentially lead to relapse. Valium is often used as an anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, and for treating panic attacks. However, long-term misuse can lead to use disorder, requiring comprehensive addiction treatment.
As their time in rehab draws to a close, many rehab facilities provide referrals to support groups, outpatient programs, or sober living homes if they believe an individual is a good candidate for such treatment options. These programs are particularly valuable for those needing ongoing support as they transition to normal life.
While Valium is legal and offers real therapeutic value for managing mental health issues such as anxiety, panic disorders, and health conditions like muscle spasms or muscle weakness, it remains a powerful and addictive drug. It is often prescribed alongside other medications, including antidepressants, for comprehensive treatment of mental health conditions. Prescribing Valium requires caution due to its high potential for addiction.
Conclusion
Fortunately, there are numerous rehab facilities and treatment programs available for individuals struggling with Valium addiction. These programs, which may include both inpatient and outpatient options, can provide vital support for individuals on their path to recovery. For those looking for more information on addiction treatment or assistance in finding a suitable program, reaching out to a Recreate Life Counseling associate can be a helpful first step.
FAQ
What does Valium do to you?
Can Valium make you sleepy?
Published on: 2022-10-29
Updated on: 2024-11-08
