Nitrazepam Addiction

Nitrazepam is a prescription medication commonly used to treat insomnia and severe anxiety. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which work by calming the brain and nerves, helping individuals fall asleep or manage anxiety.

In the UK, Nitrazepam is legally prescribed under the brand names Mogadon and Alodorm. Due to its sedative properties, it is usually only prescribed for short-term use.

Nitrazepam does carry the risk of addiction, especially if used over a longer period or in higher doses than recommended by a doctor. Many people may begin taking it with good intentions, but over time, their bodies can build up tolerance. This means that the same dosage stops having the same effect, leading to the temptation to take more to feel the same relief.

What often goes unnoticed is how easy it can be to become reliant on Nitrazepam without even realising it. When a person starts needing it more frequently or perhaps even starts worrying about getting through the day or night without it, this can be a sign that dependence is forming. For some, Nitrazepam may initially be a temporary solution, but the sense of comfort and relief it provides can quickly lead to habitual use.

Psychological dependence can also play a big role. Nitrazepam might become a go-to for dealing with stress, anxiety, or simply trying to unwind. Over time, this reliance can start to feel less like a choice and more like a necessity. When this happens, the risk of addiction becomes very real and stopping or cutting back can lead to withdrawal symptoms, making it even harder to quit without help.

It’s easy to believe that because Nitrazepam is a prescribed medication, it must be completely safe when used as directed. However, even medications designed to help can carry the risk of addiction, and it’s important to be aware of the signs.

Recognising the early signs, especially if you’ve been using Nitrazepam for a while, is essential to prevent more serious complications down the road.

Physical signs

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or a lack of energy, even after restful sleep.
• Slurred speech: Speaking slowly or with difficulty, similar to being intoxicated.
• Dizziness: Frequently feeling lightheaded or unsteady, particularly when moving too quickly.
• Tremors: Experiencing shaking or trembling in the hands or other parts of the body.
• Coordination issues: Struggling with balance or appearing clumsy in physical movements.
• Blurred vision: Experiencing difficulty seeing clearly, often resulting in disorientation.

Psychological signs

• Mood swings: Rapid and unpredictable changes in mood, from irritability to extreme emotions.
• Cravings: Strong, uncontrollable urges to use Temazepam, even when it’s not required for medical purposes.
• Confusion: Difficulty thinking clearly or feeling mentally foggy.
• Anxiety: Heightened feelings of worry or fear, particularly when unable to take the medication.
• Paranoia: Unjustified feelings of suspicion or mistrust, often affecting social interactions.

Behavioural signs

• Secretive behaviour: Hiding the use of Temazepam or being evasive about drug consumption.
• Social withdrawal: Pulling away from social engagements, family or activities once enjoyed.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Letting personal, professional or academic duties slip, resulting in missed deadlines or poor performance.
• Risky behaviour: Continuing to use Temazepam despite harmful consequences, such as relationship conflicts, legal problems or financial difficulties.
• Doctor shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to obtain additional prescriptions or lying about symptoms to get more medication (Note: This type of behaviour is common in countries where the healthcare system is privatised)