People struggling with substance use disorder often take prescription medications, like Valium, in ways other than directed. This can lead to addiction and other serious health consequences.
Fortunately, there are many treatment options available for people addicted to Valium. If you or a loved one is using Valium, consider the Valium addiction treatment at Vertava Health. Contact us today at 844.470.0410 to get started on the path to recovery.
What Is Valium?
Valium is the brand name for the generic drug diazepam, which belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines slow down activity in the brain and produce feelings of calm and relaxation. Valium effectively treats anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal when taken as directed.
Valium is available in tablet form, as an extended-release capsule, and as a liquid concentrate. Unless under medical supervision, taking the drug orally is the only directed route of administration. The tablets should never be crushed, broken, or chewed.
Can You Snort Valium?
Some people may crush Valium tablets to snort them because the drug enters the bloodstream faster. But, because of the chemical makeup of diazepam and other benzodiazepines, snorting valium may or may not be effective. While some medications are designed for insufflation(snorting), Valium is not.
Valium is slightly water-soluble, which means some of it will mix with the membranes in the nose. When snorted, a small amount may enter the bloodstream, potentially producing euphoric effects. But, the majority of snorted diazepam will slowly drip into the stomach and become absorbed at the same rate as taking it orally. Snorting Valium likely results in weaker effects than when taken orally, making it more dangerous.
The Dangers Of Snorting Valium
Besides being less effective, snorting Valium can lead to negative consequences. By crushing a Valium tablet into a powder and then snorting it, a person is exposing their nasal passage to harmful and impure materials, which can be damaging.
The dangers of snorting Valium include:
- Nasal damage — The small blood vessels in the nose can rupture, leading to a bloody nose or chronic sinusitis.
- Infection —The sinuses are connected to the brain, so snorting Valium can result in a brain infection.
- Dependence — The body builds up a tolerance to benzodiazepines quickly. When tolerance occurs, a person will need to take larger doses of the drug to feel the same effects. This can lead to dependence and addiction.
- Overdose — When Valium is snorted, it enters the bloodstream more quickly, which can cause an overdose. Signs of an overdose include slurred speech, impaired coordination, drowsiness, and shallow breathing. In severe cases, a Valium overdose can be fatal.
Treatment for Valium Use And Addiction
To treat substance valium addiction, a person should enter a program that uses evidence-based practices and therapies. Treatment can include:
- Detox — Benzodiazepines, like Valium, can cause physical dependence. Detoxification is the first step in treatment and should be done under medical supervision to ensure safety.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment — MAT uses FDA-approved medications, like naltrexone, to help with withdrawal symptoms and cravings.
- Behavioral Therapy — Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment for substance use disorders. CBT can help a person identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to drug use.
- Vertava Health’s treatment program includes these evidence-based practices and more. Our goal is to help people struggling with addiction recover and live a life in long-term recovery.
Valium Addiction Treatment at Vertava Health
Valium addiction treatment at Vertava Health can help you or your loved one recover from addiction and attain long-term sobriety. Our program includes evidence-based therapies and practices designed to meet each person’s unique needs. Contact us today at 844.470.0410 for more information about our treatments.
