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Last Updated:
December 18th, 2024
Temazepam Addiction
What is Temazepam?
Temazepam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly prescribed for short-term relief of insomnia, particularly when difficulty falling asleep or frequent night waking occurs. It works by calming the brain and central nervous system, helping people fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
In the UK, Temazepam is marketed under brand names such as Restoril and is only available legally via prescription from doctors.
Is Temazpam addictive?
Temazepam can be addictive, especially because of the risk of developing both physical and psychological dependency.
When taken even as prescribed, the body can gradually get used to Temazepam, leading to tolerance. This means the same dose might not work as well over time, and some people may take more to feel the same effects. If you try to stop suddenly, after taking Temazepam for a long period of time, you might experience withdrawal symptoms.
Temazepam withdrawal symptoms can include
- Headache
- Hypersensitivity to lights and other stimuli
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Irritability
- Dysphoria
- Depersonalisation
Some people can become psychologically dependent on Temazepam. If it helps you feel calm or sleep well, it’s easy to start believing you can’t manage without it. Over time, this can create a mental reliance where the idea of stopping feels almost impossible, even if your body isn’t physically craving it as much.
This is precisely the reason why doctors prescribe Temazepam as a short-term treatment for insomnia.
How can a temazepam addiction affect my life?
Understanding the risks of Temazepam addiction is crucial because addiction doesn’t just affect one part of your life, it impacts everything. Knowing how Temazepam addiction works and the toll it can take on your daily life is an important step toward recognising when help is needed and taking control before things get worse.
Physical health
Temazepam addiction can sneak up on your physical health in ways you might not immediately notice. At first, you might feel just a little more tired or groggy than usual. But over time, you might start to feel dizzy or unsteady, putting you at risk for accidents. For instance, something as simple as climbing stairs could suddenly feel a bit risky due to the dizziness Temazepam can cause. And because your body builds a tolerance to the drug, you may need higher doses, which can place more strain on vital organs like your liver and heart.
Mental health
Temazepam can have significant adverse effects on mental health, potentially leading to psychological disorders such as paranoia, heightened anxiety and irrational behaviour. These issues can cause confusion and distress, making it difficult to distinguish between reality and perceived threats. In some cases, users may experience mood swings or emotional instability, which can worsen their mental health over time.
Relationships
Addiction doesn’t just affect you—it can ripple out into your relationships, too. You may start to notice yourself pulling away from social situations or struggling to connect with loved ones. For example, you might skip family gatherings or avoid plans with friends because you’re either too drowsy or you’re anxious about not having access to Temazepam. Over time, this can lead to tension, conflict or even a sense of isolation as your behaviour changes and the drug becomes a bigger priority.
Daily functioning
Simple daily tasks might become harder to manage. You could find that your concentration is low or that making decisions feels more challenging. Whether it’s struggling to complete tasks at work or finding yourself forgetting small things at home, Temazepam addiction can affect your ability to function normally. Imagine not being able to focus during a meeting or finding it hard to keep up with a conversation because your mind feels foggy—that’s the kind of disruption this addiction can cause.
Financial strain
Temazepam addiction can also impact your wallet. As your body builds a tolerance, you may find yourself needing more of the drug, which can get expensive, especially if you’re trying to get it outside of your prescription (illegally). This financial strain can lead to added stress, and you might find yourself prioritising the drug over other necessities, which can cause further anxiety and worry.
Do I have a Temazepam addiction?
It’s crucial to understand and identify the signs of addiction to Temazepam, particularly because it’s a medication often prescribed for legitimate medical reasons. Addiction can sometimes sneak up on you, making it essential to know what to look out for. Some main symptoms of Temazepam addiction include:
- Increased tolerance (needing more to achieve the same effect)
- Using more Temazepam than prescribed
- Difficulty functioning without the medication
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using Temazepam
- Using it in situations where it could be dangerous, such as while driving.
However, listing these symptoms is not meant for self-diagnosis. It’s a way for you to reflect on whether you may have noticed any of these signs in yourself. If you’re concerned, particularly if Temazepam was prescribed to you by your doctor, it’s important to have an open conversation with them. They can provide guidance and help determine the best path forward.
How can I find support for a Temazepam addiction?
If you’re struggling with Temazepam addiction, Primrose Lodge offers a comprehensive treatment programme designed to help you regain control of your life. The process starts with an initial assessment, which ensures that your treatment plan is tailored specifically to your needs, offering the best possible care.
Next, you’ll begin a detox programme, where you’ll receive 24/7 support from experienced medical staff. This constant care is essential in managing withdrawal symptoms, ensuring your safety and comfort throughout the process.
Following detox, the programme includes a variety of therapeutic options such as Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), one-on-one counselling and group therapy sessions. Additionally, holistic therapies like art and yoga are available to support your mental and physical recovery.
Once your rehab experience has finished, you’ll progress to the aftercare part of the programme. Aftercare provides ongoing support, ensuring you maintain long-term sobriety and helping you navigate any challenges you may face post-treatment.
What’s next?
If Temazepam addiction is affecting your life, Primrose Lodge is here to help. Our specialised Temazepam addiction programme offers a safe, supportive environment for recovery, with tailored detox plans, therapy and ongoing care designed to meet your unique needs.
Our dedicated team is committed to guiding you every step of the way, ensuring you have the tools and support to overcome addiction. Take the first step toward a healthier, happier life today. Contact Primrose Lodge and let us help you on your journey to recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Click here to see works cited)
- “Temazepam.” NHS Choices, NHS, www.nhs.uk/medicines/temazepam/common-questions-about-temazepam/. Accessed 11 Sept. 2024.
- Fluyau D, Ponnarasu S, Patel P. Temazepam. [Updated 2024 Jan 11]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK599496/
