Nitrazepam Addiction

What is nitrazepam?

Nitrazepam is a medication commonly used to treat severe insomnia and certain types of seizures, particularly when other treatments haven’t been effective. Belonging to the benzodiazepine class, it promotes relaxation and helps induce sleep. In the UK, it’s known by brand names such as Mogadon and Alodorm. Since it is a controlled substance, owning Nitrazepam without a prescription is illegal under UK law.

Is nitrazepam addictive?

Nitrazepam, like other benzodiazepines, can be highly addictive. This class of medications is well-known for its potential to cause physical dependence, and nitrazepam is no exception. The DSM-V even includes Benzodiazepine Use Disorder to highlight the significant risk of addiction associated with these drugs. This recognition underscores how benzodiazepines can lead to a compulsive pattern of use, where stopping the medication becomes a struggle despite the negative consequences that may arise.

Why is nitrazepam addictive?

When someone uses nitrazepam or similar drugs over a prolonged period, the brain undergoes significant changes. Benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that calms the nervous system and reduces anxiety. However, chronic use causes the brain to become less responsive to these calming effects. Over time, the brain adapts by increasing receptors to compensate for the reduced response to GABA.

This shift in brain chemistry creates a state of physical dependence, where the brain relies on the drug to maintain a balance between calming and stimulating signals. If the drug is suddenly stopped, this delicate balance is disrupted, leading to withdrawal symptoms such as heightened anxiety and agitation. These Nitrazepam addiction symptoms make it incredibly challenging to discontinue use without professional support.

How can a nitrazepam addiction begin?

Nitrazepam addiction can begin in various ways, and it’s important to recognise that misuse isn’t the only factor that can lead to dependency.

Not following prescribed dosages

Nitrazepam is typically prescribed for short-term use, and strict adherence to the prescribed dosage is crucial. However, as an example, some people may double up on doses when they’ve forgotten to take the last one, thinking it will balance out their treatment. This practice is not advisable, as it can increase tolerance levels and make the drug less effective, prompting individuals to take it even more. Over time, this can lead to dependency as the body begins to crave higher amounts to achieve the same effect.

Psychological dependence

Nitrazepam is prescribed to help with sleep disorders, but its use is meant to be temporary. Some individuals may find themselves relying on it mentally, believing they cannot sleep without it. This psychological dependence can drive them to seek out the drug even after their prescription has ended, potentially leading to addiction as they continue to use nitrazepam to maintain their sleep patterns.

Using someone else’s nitrazepam

It might seem harmless to borrow someone else’s Nitrazepam pills to get a quick fix for sleep, especially during stressful times or when struggling with short-term insomnia. However, using medication not prescribed to you is dangerous and can lead to addiction. What begins as an occasional use to manage sleepless nights can quickly escalate into regular use as the body starts to crave the drug’s effects.

Recreational misuse

Some individuals might misuse Nitrazepam for its sedative effects, taking it in higher doses than prescribed to experience a calming or euphoric sensation. This type of recreational use is particularly risky, as it significantly increases the chances of developing both physical and psychological dependency on the drug.

What are the signs of nitrazepam addiction?

Recognising the signs of nitrazepam addiction is essential because it allows you to catch early warning signs in yourself or loved ones, helping you take action before the situation worsens. Addiction can develop unintentionally, even with prescribed use and by spotting these signs early, you can ensure timely intervention and support for effective recovery.

Physical signs

• Drowsiness: Persistent drowsiness or excessive sleeping, even after a full night’s rest.
• Coordination issues: Noticeable clumsiness or difficulty with coordination and balance.
• Slurred speech: Slurred or slowed speech, often similar to being intoxicated.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Frequent dizziness or feeling lightheaded, especially when standing up.
• Memory problems: Difficulty remembering recent events or conversations, often described as short-term memory loss.
• Tremors: Uncontrollable shaking or tremors in the hands or other parts of the body.

Psychological signs

• Cravings: Strong and uncontrollable urges to use nitrazepam, even when it’s not medically necessary.
• Anxiety or panic: Increased feelings of anxiety or panic when not taking the medication, sometimes leading to taking more to avoid these feelings.
• Mood swings: Rapid changes in mood, including irritability, agitation or extreme emotional responses.
• Paranoia: Unfounded feelings of paranoia or suspicion towards others, especially in social situations.
• Cognitive impairment: Difficulty concentrating, confusion or a sense of mental fog.

Behavioural signs

• Isolation: Withdrawing from friends, family or social activities that were once enjoyable.
• Neglecting responsibilities: Ignoring personal, professional or academic responsibilities, often leading to poor performance or missed deadlines.
• Continued use despite consequences: Continuing to use nitrazepam even when it’s causing problems in one’s life, such as legal issues, financial troubles or relationship conflicts.
• Secretive behaviour: Hiding pills, taking nitrazepam in secret or being evasive about drug use.

Do I have a Nitrazepam addiction?

Taking nitrazepam can help manage certain conditions, but checking in with yourself regularly is important to ensure you’re still in control. Sometimes, dependence can develop unintentionally and recognising the early signs can make all the difference. By being mindful of your usage, you can protect your well-being and address any issues before they become serious.

You could start by honestly answering the following questions:

• Do you find yourself needing to increase your dosage to achieve the same effects?
• Have you ever used nitrazepam without your doctor’s guidance or outside of prescribed instructions?
• Do you feel anxious or uneasy when you miss a dose?
• Are you using nitrazepam to cope with stress or emotional challenges?
• Have you tried to stop taking nitrazepam but found it difficult?
• Do you continue using nitrazepam despite experiencing negative side effects?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to one or more of these questions, it could indicate that an addiction to nitrazepam is present. The next step would be to contact a medical healthcare professional for further assessment.

Where can I find help for a nitrazepam addiction?

If you or someone you care about is struggling with a Nitrazepam addiction, Banbury Lodge offers a comprehensive treatment programme designed to guide you toward recovery.

It all begins with an initial assessment, a crucial step to understanding your unique situation and creating a personalised treatment plan. Following the assessment, a medically monitored detox ensures that you safely manage Nitrazepam addiction symptoms with round-the-clock care.

The core of the programme includes therapy sessions like Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), one-on-one counselling and group therapy. These sessions are complemented by holistic methods such as art therapy and yoga, which help heal both the mind and body.

Recovery doesn’t end when you leave the rehab facility. Banbury Lodge provides aftercare support to ensure you continue your journey to a healthier life, offering therapy sessions and access to the Alumni network.

Remember, dealing with Nitrazepam addiction symptoms isn’t something you have to do alone. By reaching out to Banbury Lodge, you’re opening the door to a caring environment that is focused on your well-being and recovery. Contact us today to begin your recovery journey.

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