What do Benzos do to your brain long term?

But when benzodiazepines are consumed for long periods of time, they can actually harm the brain. Taking benzodiazepines recreationally or in larger doses than prescribed can cause mental confusion, memory issues, permanent brain changes, and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

How long does tinnitus last after benzo withdrawal?

Those in the diazepam group received gradual dose reductions over 8 weeks. Patients receiving placebo reported more symptoms and a higher severity of symptoms—including tinnitus—than those who received diazepam. Two patients experienced tinnitus for 6 to 8 months after benzodiazepine discontinuation.

How long does it take to get rid of benzo tolerance?

Tolerance to the anticonvulsant and muscle-relaxing effects of benzodiazepines occurs within a few weeks in most patients.

Can Benzos cause permanent damage?

Professor Heather Ashton, a leading expert on benzodiazepines from Newcastle University Institute of Neuroscience, has stated that there is no structural damage from benzodiazepines, and advocates for further research into long-lasting or possibly permanent symptoms of long-term use of benzodiazepines as of 1996.

Do GABA receptors grow back?

The number of GABA receptors is slowly restored in response to benzodiazepine cessation or dose reduction. The rate of withdrawal of treatment needs to allow time for GABA receptors to regenerate if withdrawal symptoms are to be minimized.” The brain heals and rebalances, but it takes time.

Why are short acting benzodiazepines more addictive?

There are three types of benzodiazepines: long, intermediate and short-acting. Short-acting benzodiazepines have stronger withdrawal or ‘come down’ effects and can be more addictive than long-acting ones.

Can Benzos cause nerve damage?

What are the symptoms of benzo withdrawal?

Some of the benzo withdrawal symptoms that you may experience : Anxiety. Panic. Irritability. Insomnia. Sweating. Headaches. Muscle pain and stiffness. Poor concentration. Sensory distortions. Nausea. Heart palpitations. High blood pressure. Agitation. Tremors.

What does it mean when your withdrawal symptoms are “protracted”?

If these withdrawal symptoms continue for many months after you have finished your taper, then your symptoms can be said to be “protracted”; this does not mean permanent!

Can benzos make you depressed?

While it may not be a direct effect of the benzos, the suffering many endure could in of itself cause the onset of moderate to severe depressive episodes. Depression can lead to suicidal thoughts during withdrawal, and these thoughts need to be taken seriously and managed with therapy, medication, and support, as needed.

Are benzodiazepines bad for You?

Most doctors won’t tell you the risks associated with taking benzodiazepines. In addition to that, they don’t understand what so many people are going through when you start experiencing withdrawal or tolerance symptoms. Today, I am going to share some of my personal body hacks that have worked to help me through the withdrawal process.