Sedative Addiction
What are sedatives?
Sedatives, also known as “depressants,” “tranquilizers,” or “sleeping pills,” are a type of medication or substance that slows down brain activity, inducing relaxation, reducing anxiety, or promoting sleep. Sedatives are often used to treat conditions such as anxiety, panic disorders, and sleep disturbances. By calming (depressing) the central nervous system, they help individuals feel more at ease, which can be particularly helpful in managing acute stress or insomnia.
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Different types of sedatives
Sedatives fall into various categories based on their mechanism of action and intended use:
Benzodiazepines: Are depressants that produce hypnosis and sedation, relieve anxiety and muscle spasms, and reduce seizures. Commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders, as well as to induce sleep.
Examples: Diazepam (Valium), Alprazolam (Xanax), Lorazepam (Ativan).
Z-Drugs (Non-benzodiazepine sleep aids): They are called “Z-drugs” because many of their generic names start with the letter “Z.” Primarily used for the treatment of insomnia. Though similar to benzodiazepines, they are often considered to have fewer side effects and less risk of dependence.
Examples: Zolpidem (Ambien), Zopiclone (Lunesta).
Barbiturates: Act by depressing the central nervous system and slowing down many areas of the brain, assisting the induction of sleep. Used less frequently today due to their high potential for overdose but were once commonly prescribed for sleep and anxiety disorders.
Examples: Phenobarbital, Secobarbital.
Barbiturates, Z-drugs, and benzodiazepines work by affecting GABA receptors. Z-drugs are considered safer for short-term use due to their reduced potential for dependence and fewer side effects related to daytime drowsiness. However, long-term use of any drug can lead to similar problems, such as addiction, dependency, and withdrawal symptoms.
Why are sedatives usually only available on prescription?
Sedatives are generally controlled substances due to their strong effects on the brain and potential for misuse. They can cause:
Due to these risks, sedatives are usually prescribed by doctors for short-term use and monitored closely to prevent misuse.
Are sedatives addictive?
Sedatives can be highly addictive, especially when used over a long period or taken in higher doses than prescribed. Sedative addiction often develops as the body becomes tolerant to the drug, requiring more to achieve the same effect. Psychological dependence may also develop, where the individual feels they need the drug to cope with stress, anxiety, or in some cases to function daily.
Signs and symptoms of sedative abuse and addiction
Are there withdrawal symptoms with sedatives?
Withdrawal symptoms are common with sedatives, particularly when someone has been using them for an extended period or at high doses. Because sedatives depress the central nervous system, sudden cessation or rapid reduction can lead to a range of uncomfortable, and sometimes dangerous, withdrawal symptoms as the brain tries to regain its normal functioning.
Common withdrawal symptoms of sedatives include anxiety and agitation, insomnia, tremors and shaking, increased heart rate and blood pressure, nausea and vomiting, sweating and fever, difficulties with concentration, memory, or general confusion, depression, irritability, and mood swings.
In severe cases, auditory or visual hallucinations may occur during withdrawal, especially if the person has been using high doses for a long period. Some individuals may also experience intense psychological distress (depression, mood-swings) which can lead to suicidal thoughts and self-harm.
Withdrawal from certain sedatives, especially benzodiazepines and barbiturates, can also trigger seizures. These are some of the most dangerous aspects of sedative withdrawal and why medical supervision is always advised.
Treatment for sedative addiction at the rehab centre.
Treating sedative addiction typically involves a combination of medical intervention, therapy, and support. Effective treatment plans are personalised to meet the individual’s specific needs, ensuring that the root causes of addiction are addressed alongside the physical dependence.
Ibiza Calm is a specialised treatment clinic that provides rehab treatment for individuals who are struggling with addiction to all forms of sedatives. The goal of the treatment is to help individuals understand the underlying causes of their problem and develop the tools and strategies for a successful long-term recovery.
The rehab centre offers a comprehensive approach to treatment, including medical detox, therapy, and support groups. The Ibiza Calm team comprises experienced healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and therapists, who work together to provide the highest level of care and support to each patient.
Key components of residential sedative addiction treatment at Ibiza Calm
Inpatient treatment at the rehab centre includes:
Medical detoxification (detox): Detox involves gradually tapering off the sedative, under medical supervision to reduce withdrawal symptoms and avoid life-threatening complications, such as seizures. At Ibiza Calm, detox is overseen by our medical director, Dr Manuel Rodriguez.
Medication management: In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage withdrawal symptoms or reduce cravings during the recovery process. Alongside Dr Rodriguez, our team of highly qualified, licenced, medical professionals support clients through their detox and withdrawal, constantly monitoring medications to ensure they are effective and well-tolerated.
Individual and group therapy: Counselling and therapy are critical components of treatment. At Ibiza Calm we use a variety of therapeutic models, including cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which helps individuals identify the underlying triggers for their drug use and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Regular one-to-one sessions with one of our specialist therapists and facilitated group sessions provide support to all our clients.
Family therapy: Involving family members can help to rebuild relationships, improve family dynamics, and educate them about addiction and recovery. All our treatment programmes include a family support group. Any family members can attend, weekly online, from the moment their loved one enters the treatment clinic.
Aftercare planning: Long-term recovery from addiction involves ongoing support. As part of our tailored treatment programmes, all clients are introduced to the aftercare therapy group before leaving the clinic, ensuring they are confident of ongoing, continued support.
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