Muscle relaxers are prescription drugs designed to alleviate muscle-related issues like spasms and spasticity. There are different kinds of muscle relaxants, each functioning uniquely. Read on to learn more about the potential dangers of muscle relaxer addiction.
Are Muscle Relaxers Addictive?
The muscle relaxers diazepam (Valium) and carisoprodol (Soma) are controlled substances, meaning that they have the potential for addiction and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation if physical dependence develops. Other types of prescribed muscle relaxants are not controlled substances and it is not possible to become addicted to muscle relaxers like these.
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Soma metabolizes into meprobamate in the body. This is a tranquilizer that intensifies the relaxing effects triggered by the medication. The abuse of muscle relaxers – especially when combined with other substances or alcohol – is often driven by individuals seeking to replicate this sense of relaxation.
Tolerance and dependence can develop rapidly from muscle relaxant abuse. These medications are intended for short-term use, and prolonged use can lead to diminished effects, prompting some people to increase their dosage. This can lead to the development of dependence, where a person relies on the drug to feel normal or experiences withdrawal symptoms in its absence.
Abusing muscle relaxers can result in severe side effects, some of which may mirror their typical side effects but at a heightened intensity. These can include:
- Disorientation
- Hallucinations
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Psychosis
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Paralysis
Any non-medical use of this class of medication carries a significant risk and should be avoided.
How Fast Can You Get Addicted to Muscle Relaxers?
The speed at which someone can become addicted to muscle relaxers varies depending on factors like the specific medication, dosage, frequency of use, and the individual’s personal and family history of addiction.
While some people may develop physical dependence after short-term use, others may take longer. Follow the guidance of the prescribing physician strictly and remain aware of the signs of dependence forming – an uncontrollable urge to use the medication or experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using it, for instance.
Signs of Addiction to Muscle Relaxers
Recognizing the signs of addiction to muscle relaxers can help inform prompt and appropriate intervention. Some key indicators include:
- Tolerance: Requiring more muscle relaxers to deliver the same effects as tolerance forms.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Physical or psychological symptoms manifesting when not taking the drug – anxiety, irritability, tremors, or insomnia for example.
- Compulsive use: Taking the medication more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed, despite the negative consequences.
- Inability to discontinue use: Persistent desire or unsuccessful attempts to cut down or control muscle relaxer use.
- Preoccupation with obtaining the medication: Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, or recovering from the effects of muscle relaxers.
- Neglecting responsibilities: Failing to fulfill work, school, or home responsibilities due to medication use.
- Ongoing use despite negative consequences: Continuing to use muscle relaxers despite knowing that it’s causing or inflaming a physical or psychological health condition.
- Social withdrawal: Isolating from family and friends or abandoning hobbies and activities once enjoyed.
If you or someone that you care about is exhibiting these signs, seek professional help. Addiction is a treatable condition, and early intervention can lead to superior recovery outcomes.
Treatment for Muscle Relaxers Addiction
Seeking professional help for muscle relaxer addiction, whether used alone or with other substances, can help people break free from their compulsive usage patterns and enhance their overall health and well-being.
Given that withdrawal symptoms from this class of medication tend to be mild, an intensive detox process may not be essential. That said, the structured environment and supportive care provided in a professional detox setting can ease the withdrawal experience and streamline the transition to ongoing treatment. Comprehensive substance abuse treatment beyond detoxification could include:
- Engagement with inpatient or outpatient rehab with treatment tailored to individual needs.
- Participation in behavioral therapies, counseling, support groups, educational sessions on addiction, and training in relapse prevention techniques.
- Leveraging the support network of family, friends, and others involved in the rehabilitation process.
- Ongoing aftercare.
Get Treatment for Muscle Relaxers Addiction at California Detox
If you need help addressing any kind of substance abuse, consider inpatient rehab at California Detox. Benefit from an immersive and inclusive environment free of distractions and triggers as you tackle the physical and psychological side of addiction.
If you are dependent on muscle relaxers, our medical detox program will streamline the withdrawal process and ease the transition to ongoing treatment.
Due to the unique presentation of all substance use disorders, expect to access individualized treatments that include:
- MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
- Talk therapies
- Motivational therapies
- Group therapy
- Individual counseling
- Family therapy
- Holistic treatments
- Aftercare planning
Begin addressing muscle relaxer addiction right away by calling 949.694.8305.
