Valium is a part of the benzodiazepine class of drugs, which contain sedatives, anticonvulsant, amnesic, and muscle relaxant properties. Valium was initially introduced in 1963; currently it is available as “diazepam”; it was also a modification of the original benzodiazepine, Librium, and is commonly used today to treat of anxiety. Often a dependency on valium occurs, leading to valium addiction.

Valium has completely taken over from barbiturates as the chosen drug for decreasing anxiety. Furthermore, Valium generally has a lower abuse potential and fewer adverse reactions than barbiturates. Valium is classified as a minor tranquilizer. Over the last 40 years, valium has been prescribed most frequently for the short-term relief of moderate to severe anxiety or insomnia. Long-term use can be the result of developing a tolerance, and physiological and psychological dependency on the drug.

Valium is very efficient in managing anxiety disorders, however, the potential for abuse and valium addiction is possible. Oftentimes, abusers of valium have other substance abuse issues, because valium is typically a secondary drug of abuse. It is often used to make the high received from another drug more powerful or to reduce the negative effects of other drugs. Notably, even when valium is used legitimately and for therapeutic reasons, there is still an inherent risk of addiction and physical or psychological dependence. When one consumes valium daily or frequently, a tolerance for the drug can quickly develop. Tolerance to the hypnotic and sedative effects generally happens within days, while tolerance to the anxiolytic effects of valium hardly ever happens. Using valium for the long-term will usually lead to some type of dependence or to valium addiction.

The issue of dependence is of great concern when it comes to valium. This tends to occur when the patient has already recovered from her ailment for which the valium was prescribed, but keeps taking it, thinking she will die without her daily dose. Once accustomed to it, she develops the habit of consuming a Valium every few hours, without consulting her physician. By now, her problem is no longer anxiety or insomnia, but benzodiazepine dependency, or valium addiction. Symptoms of a valium addict include high levels of anxiety, insomnia, tension, shaking, and fatigue.

As with all other drugs or alcohol addiction, the outcome of the withdrawal therapy depends on how severe the addiction is and the degree to which the addict will adhere to her treatment plan. Additionally, depending on how long the individual has been taking the drug, plus how much her dosage has been, can make a difference in the overall success of treatment programs. Common therapies include counseling, group therapy, and residential treatment programs. Valium addiction should not be viewed less seriously than any other type of addiction. Individuals who are addicted usually never want to admit or accept that they are addicted to drugs. By first admitting then contacting a treatment facility, recovery is possible.