Over the years, all of us have developed habits, good and bad. Some habits we acquired over time and we are distinctly aware of them. Then some have become a part of us without our even noticing.

This is the danger when using Librium. Studies have shown that this pharmaceutical drug is habit-forming and if taken for prolonged periods, can lead to abuse and addiction. Most individuals are therefore discouraged from taking it for more than short-term use.

For instance, one of the worrisome effects of Librium is that develops quickly. When they no longer enjoy the full benefits of the drug at the prescribed dosage, individuals may resort to a higher dosage without consulting their doctors. Others use Librium recreationally for the high or to enhance the effects of painkillers.

Understanding Librium (Chlordiazepoxide)

Librium (chlordiazepoxide) – a benzodiazepine – may be prescribed for medical and mental conditions including panic attacks, severe anxiety, epileptic seizures, and withdrawal symptoms from depressants such as alcohol. It is available in pill or tablet form but may also be administered as a liquid intravenously.

Librium and other benzodiazepines can be highly addictive and can have serious side effects. Similar benzodiazepines include Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, and Halcion. On the black market, they are referred to as benzos, tranks, and downers.

Librium Effects and Abuse

Librium binds with special neurons called GABA receptors, which can reduce overactive brain functions and ease mental stress.

When taken for recreational purposes, users may experience a feeling of being “high” similar to alcohol consumption. A prolonged sedation period will then follow, giving users a sense of calmness. To experience a stronger “hit,” recreational users sometimes crush the tablets and snort them, similar to powdered cocaine.

Some who abuse the drug experience seizures or go into a coma.
[contact_form_cta_shortcode]

Signs of Librium Abuse

Whether used for medical or recreational purposes, taking Librium for a sustained period may cause side effects, particularly in neurological function because the drug primarily affects the brain.

Because Librium builds up in the body, users may develop a heavy mental and physical dependence on the drug. Soon they may be unable to function normally or perform even the simplest tasks.

Some of the most common signs of Librium abuse include confusion, dizziness, nausea, constipation, sleep disturbances, mood swings, slowed heartbeat, decreased libido, and impaired coordination.

Recognizing Librium Addiction

If individual users and their families know how to recognize the early symptoms of Librium addiction or dependence, they may be able to stop it before the physical, emotional, and psychological toll is too high.

First, users and their families must accept the reality of the addiction, not try to cover it up. Through acceptance, everyone involved can contribute to finding a solution to the problem as soon as possible.

The solution will probably involve a plan to gradually taper off of Librium, preferably under medical guidance. To quit any benzodiazepine abruptly can be dangerous.

The Dangers of Librium

Long-term use of Librium may create dependence, posing a threat not only to its users but also to their family, friends, and associates. Among the risks identified with Librium dependence are the following:

• Tolerance to the drug. Over time, users need to take higher doses of the drug to get the same effect. Whether they have a legitimate prescription or are taking it illicitly, the usual dose may no longer give them what they need.
• Lying to family and friends. One of the signs of addiction is that use is no longer open but secretive. Those with addiction or dependence conceal their use or the amount of their use even from friends and family.
• Lack of money. Once legitimate methods of procuring Librium run out or fall short, dependent users sometimes turn to the black market, where there are no co-pays or insurance. Sometimes their money runs out and they have to resort to selling possessions or stealing to feed their habit.
• Librium is all-important. For some Librium users, everything else – home, family, friends, work, school – is subordinate to their drug use. It is the best and most important part of their lives.

Common Librium Drug Combinations

Librium users attest to great relief by taking the drug. But as their dependence and tolerance on the drug grow greater over time, its effects decrease. So, users combine Librium with other drugs, known as polydrug use, to produce a “cocktail effect”. Studies show that around 80 percent of those abusing Librium users may engage in this dangerous practice. Most often, they combine their Librium pill with alcoholic drinks, opioids or – worse – cocaine.

Those who take Librium with alcohol say that they could no longer feel the effects of the pharmaceutical drug. This creates a major health hazard because the two substances have similar effects. Combining the two can cause deep sedation and stupor, a condition they may find difficult to recover from in the long term.

On the other hand, Librium and cocaine have almost the opposite effect. To combine them may minimize their effects, but the contradictory signals may put a dangerous strain on the body.

Librium Abuse Statistics

Benzodiazepine addiction, including Librium, has become a serious concern, particularly in the United States.
[content_left_box_right_cta_shortcode]

Withdrawal from Librium and Treatment

For those who have never been dependent on or addicted to Librium or other drugs, the solution seems simple: “Just quit”. For those who have become dependent on the drug, this is a daunting task.

It is difficult for Librium dependents to do away with the habit because it has already become a way of life for them. Taking the drug has become an indispensable part of their daily routine and therefore giving it up is considered a major loss on their part. Librium withdrawal can be dangerous and needs to be addressed with careful thought and preparation, possibly by gradually reducing the dose rather than cutting it off abruptly.

Treating a Librium Addiction

Treating addiction to a drug such as Librium requires learning how to live without the presence of the drug. The primary step to recovery from dependence, abuse, or addiction to the drug is handling withdrawal without setbacks or relapses.

Users might find it hard to quit because of withdrawal symptoms such as depression, exhaustion, and an inability to focus. To manage such symptoms of withdrawal, individuals should seek help at qualified treatment and rehabilitation centers.

Users who are addicted to Librium often undergo detoxification (detox). The detox process helps people by removing the drug from their systems. Medical professionals can use medication and therapy to lessen the effects of withdrawal such as fatigue and depression. After Librium is gone from the body, therapy begins.

Centers that provide detoxification are equipped with physicians and licensed staff who work to avoid complications during the detoxification process. Other treatments in rehab facilities may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and 12-step programs.

Such support is very important to prevent relapses and to maintain sobriety. It is also crucial to understand the main causes of a user’s addiction. Knowing these causes can increase the client’s chance of achieving a successful recovery. Counseling can be vital in tracing the physical, mental, academic, social, and professional stressors that may have led the user to abuse Librium and other prescription drugs. Most treatment centers provide counseling.

Treatment and rehabilitation centers have licensed therapists that assist people in coping with their emotions. Such centers also help their clients join peer sobriety groups that can provide additional support from people who have experienced many of the same things.

Treatments Offered in Rehab

Each treatment center has ways of helping people overcome their addiction to Librium, but some have different strengths and specialties. Find a center that meets your needs.

Because the benzodiazepine withdrawal process is longer than with some other drugs, people with Librium dependency may be better off at an inpatient rehabilitation center. Clients live at the inpatient facilities throughout their recovery. Inpatient rehabs provide a controlled environment free from factors that may trigger clients to use Librium and other drugs again.

During inpatient rehab, clients often follow a strict daily regimen. The schedule often consists of mealtimes, support groups, therapy, free time, family visits, group activities, and exercise. All of this activity is focused on the welfare and recovery of the client.