Last Updated:

November 19th, 2024

Temazepam addiction

Temazepam, also known as Restoril, is a benzodiazepine drug that is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia and anxiety. Temazepam works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) activity in the brain and central nervous system, resulting in feelings of relaxation and calm. It is this interaction with neurotransmitters that also makes temazepam addictive. If you are struggling to get through the day without taking temazepam, Oasis Runcorn can offer you the guidance and support you need to quit.

Temazepam pill bottle

The stages of temazepam addiction

Temazepam addiction can start with a prescription from your doctor, spiralling out of control if you begin to take the drug more frequently or in higher doses than prescribed. Many people also become addicted after taking temazepam recreationally to achieve a pleasant and relaxing ‘high’.

Whether it stems from a genuine medical need or from recreational use, you can typically expect to experience the following stages as temazepam addiction develops:

  • Initial use: You take temazepam for the first time, likely experiencing relief from your symptoms and a sense of relaxation. The reward centre in your brain is triggered and links temazepam to a positive experience.
  • Regular use: You continue to take temazepam regularly and you establish a pattern of use.
  • Risky use: As your tolerance to temazepam builds, you may start to take more of the drug to feel the same effects. Taking temazepam outside of the ways in which it was prescribed, however, can be dangerous.
  • Dependency: Your brain starts to become dependent on temazepam to maintain levels of the neurotransmitter GABA. If you try to reduce your intake, it is likely you will experience withdrawal symptoms.
  • Temazepam addiction: You may feel like you are unable to control your temazepam consumption and will continue to take it despite any negative ramifications.

No matter what stage you are at, Oasis Runcorn can help you to escape from the grips of temazepam addiction and prevent further damage.

Who is at risk of temazepam addiction?

Temazepam addiction does not discriminate – anyone who takes this drug is sadly at risk of becoming dependent on it. There are certain risk factors, however, that can increase your chances of addiction. These include:

  • A family history of substance use disorders: Addiction is largely caused by genetics, so if you have a close family member who struggles with substances, you are at a higher risk of developing temazepam addiction.
  • Co-occurring mental health disorders: If you suffer from mental health issues, including conditions like anxiety, depression or PTSD, you may turn to temazepam to self-medicate and addiction can quickly ensue as a result.
  • Using temazepam at a young age: If you are under the age of 25, your brain is still developing and is, therefore, more susceptible to the effects of temazepam.
  • Suffering past trauma: If you have a history of trauma, abuse or neglect, you may use temazepam as a way to forget your past experiences, leaving you vulnerable to addiction.
  • Inability to cope with stress or negative emotions: If you struggle to handle stressful situations or negative feelings, you may use temazepam as a way to cope.

If you fall into one of these risk categories, it is important to be aware of the warning signs of temazepam addiction and speak to a healthcare provider if you are concerned.

Am I addicted to temazepam?

Recognising an addiction to temazepam is challenging, especially if you have been prescribed the medication by your doctor. In some cases, it might feel easier to ignore the problem and hope it will go away on its own. However, temazepam addiction is a progressive condition. Allowing the problem to grow unchecked will only cause bigger issues down the line.

Take a moment to answer the following questions:

  • Do you find it difficult to control or limit your use of temazepam?
  • Have you been taking temazepam for longer than prescribed or in higher doses than recommended?
  • Have you experienced withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop or reduce your use of temazepam?
  • Do you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of using or obtaining temazepam?
  • Have you neglected important responsibilities and commitments due to your temazepam use?
  • Have you unsuccessfully tried to quit or cut back on temazepam use in the past?
  • Do you experience cravings or an intense desire to use temazepam?
  • Have you continued to use temazepam despite experiencing negative consequences in your life, such as problems at work or with relationships?

If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, it could indicate a potential addiction to temazepam. If you think that you have a prescription drug addiction, do not be ashamed to reach out for help.

Temazepam addiction: what’s the cost?

While it may be hard to believe a prescription medication can be harmful, temazepam addiction can actually have profound consequences on every aspect of your life.

Physical health

Temazepam addiction can damage your physical health, resulting in:

  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Dizziness
  • Lack of coordination
  • Slowed breathing and heart rate
  • Slurred speech
  • Muscle tremors
  • Muscle weakness
  • Headaches
  • Low blood pressure

Mental health

Temazepam addiction can also cause problems with your mental health, including:

Work and finances

Temazepam can leave you feeling drowsy, forgetful and unable to focus, all of which can heavily impact your performance at work. Your ability to complete tasks may decline, and it is possible that you will frequently arrive late or miss shifts completely. All of these problems can lead to loss of employment, and this paired with the need to fund your temazepam addiction can cause issues with your finances.

Relationships

Temazepam addiction can cause problems in relationships with friends and family, slowly isolating you from your loved ones. It is possible that your behaviour will become more secretive as you attempt to hide your growing temazepam addiction, leading to tension and arguments.

Legal issues

Despite being a prescription medication, temazepam is also classified as a Class C substance in the UK. Being caught in possession of temazepam without a prescription could result in up to two years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.

The truth about temazepam addiction

The mind can often be deceptive when it comes to temazepam addiction – it may try to rationalise or deny the severity of the problem. It is important to become aware of the lies your temazepam addiction is feeding you so that you can break free from its grip.

Some common lies your temazepam addiction will tell you include:

“I need temazepam to function.”

The truth is, dependence does not equal normal functioning. Relying on temazepam only masks the underlying problems that led you here. Getting help for your temazepam addiction gives you the freedom to thrive, rather than just get through the day.

“I can quit temazepam any time I want.”

Temazepam addiction will do anything to convince you that you are in control and can stop whenever you want. However, you may have already tried to cut back but found yourself unable to do so. Accepting the need for temazepam addiction treatment is the first step in recovery.

“I’m not harming anyone else with my temazepam use.”

The consequences of temazepam addiction are far-reaching and can deeply affect those around you. Recognising the impact this has on others can motivate you to seek help and rebuild broken relationships.

“I can manage my temazepam addiction on my own.”

Overcoming temazepam addiction is a challenging journey that benefits from the support of healthcare professionals, therapists, support groups, and loved ones. Building a strong support network increases your chances of long-term recovery.

Is temazepam addiction treatable?

Oasis Runcorn provides a safe, welcoming space where you can heal from temazepam addiction. Our comprehensive programme focuses on treating physical addiction through an assisted detox for safe withdrawal, alongside psychological and emotional recovery through our wide range of effective therapies. Our rehab centre is dedicated to helping you achieve your goals.

With the help of our expert staff, you can look forward to a healthier, happier life free from the damaging cycles of temazepam addiction. If you are ready to begin your journey to wellness, call our admissions team today.

Frequently asked questions

How dangerous is it to have an addiction to temazepam?
Temazepam addiction is just as dangerous as any other addiction. In particular, mixing temazepam with other substances can cause potentially life-threatening issues, including respiratory failure, cardiac arrest and death. It is also possible to overdose on temazepam and this should be treated as a medical emergency.
How addictive is temazepam?
While not everyone who uses temazepam will develop an addiction, prolonged or excessive use of temazepam puts you at high risk. Using the drug for more than four weeks is not recommended.
How can I avoid temazepam addiction?
To avoid temazepam addiction, it’s important to use the medication strictly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the recommended dosage and duration of treatment, and regularly communicate with your doctor about any concerns or changes in your condition. Avoid using temazepam for non-medical reasons or recreationally.