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This Page was last reviewed and changed on January 3rd, 2023
Librium addiction
Librium, also known as ‘chlordiazepoxide’, is a benzodiazepine drug usually prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, and muscle pains. Librium addiction can develop in anyone who takes the drug for an extended period of time as the calming effect of Librium, paired with its interaction with the brain’s neurotransmitters, means that a habit can quickly form with frequent use.
If you are worried that you or a loved one may be addicted to Librium, it is important to know that you are not alone. Reach out to Primrose Lodge today if you would like help in overcoming Librium addiction.
How does Librium addiction develop?
Librium affects the brain by interacting with neurotransmitters – these are the chemicals that send messages between nerve cells. Librium increases the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve transmission. This action results in the calming, sedative effect for which Librium is prescribed, and triggers the brain’s reward system.
With frequent use, your brain becomes accustomed to the effects of Librium and the increased levels of GABA. As your Librium use progresses, you may need to take it just to feel normal, and you could experience withdrawal symptoms if you try to reduce or stop taking the drug.
Eventually, you’ll find yourself requiring more and more Librium to feel the same effects. This is known as tolerance and is a key sign that you may be developing a Librium addiction.
Signs and symptoms of Librium addiction
Using Librium brings with it a range of unpleasant physical and psychological ramifications, manifesting in both long and short-term side effects. Some of these side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Muscle weakness
- Slow reflexes
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Confusion
- Skin problems
- Irregular menstruation
- Low blood pressure
- Changes in libido
- Liver problems, including jaundice
- Depression
- Hallucinations
Combining Librium with other substances, such as alcohol or illicit drugs like cocaine or heroin, increases the risk of respiratory problems, coma, and overdose, and can be fatal. If you are experiencing any of the above side effects, it is important to speak with a medical professional and get the help you need to defeat your Librium addiction.
Who is at risk of developing Librium addiction?
Anyone who takes Librium for an extended period of time is at risk of developing a Librium addiction, however, there are some factors that may increase your risk. These include:
- A family history of addiction: according to studies, genetics play a large role in whether you develop an addiction.
- Those suffering from co-occurring mental health issues: individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other mental health issues may take Librium as a way to self-medicate.
- Using Librium at a young age: studies suggest that drug users under the age of 25 are more likely to develop an addiction.
- Those who have experienced previous trauma: experiencing traumatic past events can lead individuals to use Librium as a way to cope.
While Librium addiction can impact anyone, at any time, if you fall into one of these categories you are at an exceptionally higher risk of developing an addiction.
Am I addicted to Librium?
Librium is a legal prescription drug, meaning that misuse can often go unnoticed; it is easy to think that, because it is prescribed by a doctor, no harm can come from its use. Often, users will deny they have a problem, and it is possible that the dangers of abusing this drug will not even be considered.
If you are wondering whether you are addicted to Librium, it is important to be honest with yourself. Take our quick quiz to find out if you could be addicted to Librium:
- Do you use Librium more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed?
- Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using Librium, such as anxiety, tremors, sweating and nausea?
- Do you crave Librium or think about it often?
- Have you developed a tolerance to Librium, and need more of the drug to feel its effects?
- Have you neglected work, school, or family responsibilities in order to use Librium?
- Do you continue to use Librium despite negative consequences, such as relationship problems or financial difficulties?
If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, it is likely you have an addiction to Librium. While this can be difficult to overcome on your own, recovery is possible with the right treatment programme.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss Librium addiction treatment options, contact us today. Don’t wait until your Librium addiction is out of control – the earlier you seek help, the easier your recovery will be.
What are the negative impacts of Librium addiction?
Librium addiction can have a number of negative consequences, both for the individual suffering from addiction and their loved ones. These include:
As with any addiction, your need for consumption will overtake everything else in your life. Ensuring a healthy diet and regular exercise will not be a priority for most addicted to Librium and your physical health will suffer as a result.
The vicious cycle of Librium abuse often continues as users try to quell worsening mental health issues with higher doses of the drug.
Librium addiction can also result in lost productivity at work, and may eventually lead to job loss, which only adds to the financial burden. The stress of financial problems can often prompt the user to turn to Librium as a way of coping.
Despite the devastating and seemingly overwhelming consequences Librium has on your life, there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The good news is that all of these issues are fixable – with the right support, you can repair your physical and mental health, rebuild relationships, and get your career back on track.
Primrose Lodge can offer you the vital resources you need to overcome Librium addiction and start your journey to a happier, healthier life.
Helping someone with Librium addiction: what not to do
It can be very difficult to watch a loved one suffer from Librium addiction, but it is important to remember that their condition does not define them. They most likely need your support now more than ever, and having someone to talk openly to could mean the world of difference in their recovery.
It is, however, crucial to avoid any actions that could inadvertently enable their Librium addiction. Families often try to help their loved one but do not realise that their efforts are in fact prolonging the drug abuse. Some things you should avoid doing include:
- Making excuses for their behaviour
- Covering up their Librium use
- Lying to others on their behalf
- Taking on their responsibilities
- Doing things for them that they should be doing for themselves
- Allowing them to use your home as a place to abuse Librium
- Giving them money when you know it will be spent on Librium
If you are worried about a loved one’s Librium abuse, the best thing you can do is encourage them to seek professional help. Be open and honest with them about your feelings, and actively listen and acknowledge their response.
If you need help broaching the subject of Librium addiction with your loved one, the Primrose Lodge team can offer advice and guidance, as well as family support.
Can Librium addiction be overcome?
If you are ready and willing to make a change, Librium addiction can certainly be overcome. With the right treatment, it is possible to live a happy and healthy life without the need to use Librium.
At Primrose Lodge, we offer a comprehensive rehabilitation programme that includes detox, a range of therapies, and aftercare planning. Our team of experts will work closely with you to ensure that you have the best possible chance of achieving long-term sobriety.
Next steps
The road to recovery may seem daunting but with the right guidance and support, you can live a life free from the chains of Librium addiction. Our team of experienced addiction specialists can provide you with the information and resources you need to get clean and stay clean.