Is Valium a Narcotic? Side-effects, Long-Term Use, and Addiction. Is Valium a Narcotic Drug?

What is Valium?

Valium, with its generic name diazepam, is a widely recognized medication in the benzodiazepine class. This pharmaceutical powerhouse is primarily prescribed to manage a range of medical conditions, particularly those related to anxiety and stress. Let’s dive into its multifaceted character:

• Anxiety and Stress: Valium’s prominent role is mitigating anxiety, tension, and restlessness. Healthcare providers often prescribe it for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, and social anxiety.
• Muscle Spasms: Valium’s muscle relaxant properties make it beneficial in addressing conditions marked by muscle spasms, such as muscle injuries and certain neurological disorders.
• Seizures: This versatile drug is also utilized in managing various types of seizures, including those associated with epilepsy.
• Alcohol Withdrawal: Valium aids individuals undergoing alcohol withdrawal by curbing withdrawal symptoms like tremors and agitation.
• Sedation: It is sometimes used as a preoperative sedative and amnestic agent to induce calmness before medical procedures.
• Insomnia: In some cases, Valium can help with short-term insomnia, although its use is typically limited due to the risk of dependence.

Is Diazepam a Narcotic?

No, diazepam (commonly known by the brand name Valium) is not classified as a narcotic. Diazepam belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medications, distinct from narcotics.

In medical terms, narcotics typically refer to opioids or opiates, such as morphine, codeine, and heroin. These substances are derived from the opium poppy plant or synthetically produced to mimic their effects and primarily act on the body’s opioid receptors.

On the other hand, Diazepam is a benzodiazepine that primarily affects the central nervous system by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It is prescribed for various medical conditions, including anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal.

While diazepam is not a narcotic, it is a controlled substance due to its potential for abuse and dependence. It should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure safe and appropriate usage.

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4.9 Million

In 2020, doctors prescribed more than 4.9 million doses of Valium.

Source: FDA

3x Admission

About 1.2 million people in the United States started abusing benzos like Valium in 2013.

Source: FDA

Causes of Valium Addiction

Valium addiction, like addiction to other benzodiazepines, can develop due to various factors, both physiological and psychological. Understanding the potential causes can shed light on the complexities of addiction:

• Recreational Use: Some individuals initially use Valium for recreational purposes, seeking its euphoric or sedative effects. This misuse can lead to addiction over time.
• Prescription Misuse: Even when taken as prescribed, Valium carries a risk of dependence. Misusing the medication by taking higher doses or using it longer than recommended can increase this risk.
• Prolonged Use: Long-term use of Valium, significantly beyond the prescribed duration, can lead to physical dependence as the body becomes accustomed to the drug’s presence.
• Tolerance: With continued use, individuals may develop tolerance to Valium, requiring higher doses to achieve the desired effects. This can escalate misuse and addiction.
• Co-occurring Disorders: Individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, may be at a higher risk of Valium addiction, as they may use the medication to self-medicate their symptoms.
• Genetics: Genetics can play a role in addiction susceptibility. Some individuals may have genetic factors that make them more prone to substance abuse and dependence, including Valium.
• Psychological Factors: Psychological factors, such as a history of trauma, stress, or a lack of healthy coping mechanisms, can contribute to Valium addiction.
• Social Environment: Exposure to a social environment where Valium misuse is prevalent or where there is easy access to the drug can increase the risk of addiction.
• Withdrawal Avoidance: Some individuals continue using Valium to avoid experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, which can be challenging.
• Peer Pressure: Peer pressure and influence from friends or acquaintances who misuse Valium can lead to experimentation and, potentially, addiction.

• Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): SSRIs are a class of antidepressant medications commonly used to treat anxiety disorders. Examples include sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), and escitalopram (Lexapro).
• Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): SNRIs are another class of antidepressants that can be effective for anxiety. Examples include venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta).
• Buspirone (Buspar): Buspirone is an anti-anxiety medication that works differently from benzodiazepines and is not considered addictive.
• Beta-Blockers: While not typically used as the first-line treatment for anxiety, beta-blockers like propranolol can help manage some physical anxiety symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat and trembling.
• Antihistamines: Some antihistamines, like hydroxyzine (Vistaril), may be prescribed for their sedative effects to help manage anxiety.

Valium Narcotics Addiction Treatment

Valium addiction can be a complex and challenging journey, and we’re here to provide comprehensive support.

Our Services Include:

• Dual Diagnosis Treatment: Addressing co-occurring mental health issues alongside addiction, our integrated care approach promotes lasting recovery.
• Medical Detox: Ensuring a safe and comfortable Ambien withdrawal under expert supervision.
• Individualized Therapy: Exploring addiction’s root causes and developing personalized recovery strategies through one-on-one counseling.
• Group Therapy: Building community and sharing experiences in supportive group sessions.
• Holistic Approaches: Incorporating yoga, meditation, and art therapy to address physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of recovery.
• Relapse Prevention: Equipping individuals with tools to identify triggers and maintain sobriety.

Our commitment at We Level Up is helping individuals overcome Ambien addiction for lasting recovery. Our evidence-based treatments, compassionate staff, and personalized care plans support each person’s unique journey to sobriety. If you or someone you know is struggling with Ambien addiction, reach out today. We provide guidance and support, promoting mental health and well-being.