Tranxene Addiction and Abuse

What is Tranxene?

Tranxene is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed most often for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders. The drug can also serve as a muscle relaxant during treatment of alcohol withdrawal or seizure disorders, and it has an untypically long half-life.

Like many other benzodiazepines, Tranxene is highly addictive due to how it modifies how GABA receptors’ accept neurotransmitters and slows down signals between neurons. This influence on the human brain and body leads to experiencing a relaxed state and mild euphoria which can ease panic attacks or seizures. It is this relaxing property that gives rise to physical dependence and addiction.

Other names for Tranxene

Tranxene is the brand name for Clorazepate, a benzodiazepine medication.Clorazepate is the generic name of the drug while Tranxene is the common marketing name. Tranxene can also be found on the market as Novo-Clopate.

What is Tranxene Used For?

Tranxene is typically used to treat anxiety disorders and insomnia. The drug can also be prescribed as an anticonvulsant or muscle relaxant, or pre-medication.

The drug is also useful in addiction recovery to manage alcohol withdrawal symptoms, as well as epilepsy. But Tranxene is only of limited use in managing alcohol withdrawal due to its addictive nature. That is, using Tranxene for too long to manage withdrawal symptoms places an addict at risk of developing a physical dependence on Tranxene.

Causes of Tranxene Addiction

Because Tranxene is generally prescribed for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders, people who use the drug might down the road abuse it to heighten its effects and later become addicted to it.

People who have co-occurring disorders usually abuse anxiety drugs by self-medicating or combining it with other substances. Examples of such co-occurring disorders include post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, major depressive disorder, or sleeping disorders.

Professionals with high-stress jobs also have a high likelihood of abusing Tranxene as they often suffer from work-related anxiety, sleeplessness, or physical stress. But in truth, anyone who has been prescribed Tranxene is at risk of abusing it and becoming addicted which is why the drug is often only used in scenarios where alternative forms of treatment are inadequate or unavailable. Other risk factors that can result in Tranxene addiction include;

  • Patients with medical problems such as muscle pain or alcohol withdrawal are likely to abuse sedatives like Tranxene to control their condition.
  • Mental illness such as anxiety and panic disorders can cause an individual to use Tranxene for longer than necessary which will lead to an increased tolerance to the drug over time and eventually a possible overdose
  • Polydrug use. This is the combination of Tranxene with similar depressants or other substances in order to intensify its effects. Such drug abuse is dangerous as not only can it exacerbate addiction, it can also lead to fatal consequences.
  • According to APA (the American Psychiatric Association), your genetic makeup plays a key part in determining the development of addiction to substances like benzodiazepines. If you have a family history of abusing benzodiazepine or some other form of addiction, the risk of you developing substance dependence when using Tranxene is much higher.
  • APA also points out that individuals who live in an environment that gives them greater access to benzodiazepines or people who are frequently surrounded by people with an addiction are more likely to engage in similar behaviours
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How addictive is Tranxene?

Medical studies have shown that Tranxene has a significantly high abuse potential.Addiction to Tranxene can develop either due to recreational misuse of the drug, or use the drug long-term or above prescribed dose.

The addictiveness of Tranxene is due to its benzodiazepine properties which affect the brain and nervous system by causing a surge in the production of neurotransmitters. Frequent and extended use of the drug will lead to your brain adapting to the high production of neurotransmitters. In the event you trying quitting the drug, your body will be unable to naturally cope with former levels of neurotransmitter production. Addiction to Tranxene can occur even if you use the drug according to the prescription which is why it is recommended it be used for the shortest time possible before physical dependence can develop

Addictive Properties of Tranxene

Because Tranxene is a benzodiazepine, quitting the drug can lead to the appearance of withdrawal symptoms that are similar to those experienced during a Xanax or Valium withdrawal. The severity of the symptoms are often dependent on factors such as duration of abuse of the drug or quantity of the drug consumed. The longer the drug is abused and the higher the dose, the greater the risk of unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you quit the abuse of Tranxene.

But withdrawal symptoms can also occur even if Tranxene is used according to prescription or after short-term use. The use of Tranxene for whatever treatment should be halted within the shortest time possible through a gradual dose reduction regimen in order to safely stop the use of the drug.

Methods of Use of Tranxene

Tranxene is available in tablet form and can be consumed orally.

What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Tranxene?

An addiction to Tranxene implies that you believe that you are unable to function normally without using the drug. This is usually evident in the manifestation of withdrawal symptoms when you fail to take a fresh dose of the drug.

Spotting Tranxene Abuse

The sooner you identify that you are abusing a benzodiazepine like Tranxene, the sooner you can get the help you need to kick the habit. Ignoring a drug habit can be dangerous as it can lead to long-term health complications down the road as well as mental and behavioural disorders.

If you are using Tranxene and experiencing any of the following symptoms, then you have likely developed an addiction and are abusing the drug;

  • Been using Tranxene without a doctor’s prescription
  • Taking higher doses of Tranxene than prescribed
  • Using Tranxene in higher doses in order to achieve the desired effect. That is, developed a tolerance to the drug
  • Failed attempts to quit using Tranxene or to reduce doses
  • Continued abuse of Tranxene even though you are aware its negatively affecting your health, relationships, and life in general
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you miss a dose
  • Development of risky behaviours, such as driving while under the influence of Tranxene
  • Doctor shopping or using other illegal means to acquire more Tranxene

If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms while using Tranxene, it is best to contact us immediately to stage an intervention and help your developing drug habit.

Tranxene Abuse Signs and Symptoms

Knowing the signs of Tranxene abuse is the best way to nip the problem in the bud as you can get help as soon as you notice the development of such symptoms. The following signs are possible indicators that a person is abusing Tranxene;

  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Increased tolerance
  • Euphoria
  • Lack of coordination
  • Memory problems
  • Problems thinking
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Lowered inhibitions
  • Slowed breathing
  • Decreased blood pressure

Health Risks from Tranxene Addiction

Tranxene might have health benefits and a variety of medical applications, but similar to most forms of medication, the drug also has certain health risks. For instance, the use of Tranxene can give rise to the following side effects.

  • Anterograde amnesia
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Ataxia
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • An increased risk of falls for elderly individuals

Short-Term Effects of Tranxene

Potential short-term effects of abusing Tranxene can include;

  • A decrease in muscular coordination and ability to perform tasks
  • Problems performing complex skills, such as driving
  • Impairment of higher brain functions, including memory and learning
  • Feelings of well-being.
  • Relaxation
  • Continued sedation even after tolerance has developed

Long-Term Effects of Tranxene

Potential long-term effects of abusing Tranxene can include;

  • A general cognitive decline, including issues with learning and memory
  • Potential immune system impairments
  • Increased tolerance
  • Loss of sex drive
  • Addiction
  • Issues with performing routine tasks
  • A decline in overall mental health
  • The development of physical dependence

You could also develop suicidal behaviour and ideation if you fail to use Tranxene according to prescription.

Withdrawal Effects of Tranxene Abuse

After you have developed a physical dependence or addiction to Tranxene, you can experience any or multiple of the following withdrawal symptoms if you try to abruptly quit using the drug;

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  • Hallucinations
  • Seizures
  • Behavioural changes
  • Sweating
  • Tremors or uncontrollable shaking
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia

To minimise the manifestation of the above symptoms, it is best to have your withdrawal symptoms managed in a specialised detox facility where round the clock treatment and a tapering regime can be provided.

Co-Occurring Disorders

If you are abusing Tranxene, it is possible that you are also simultaneously suffering from a co-occurring mental health condition. If you have a co-occurring disorder while going through addiction, it becomes difficult to make a full recovery without also treating your co-occurring disorder(s). This is because co-occurring disorders often contribute to substance abuse, and failing to treat the disorder can in time lead to a return to drug use.

The following disorders have been noticed among people going through Tranxeneaddiction:

  • Alcohol use disorder
  • Tobacco use disorder, and other substance use disorders
  • Antisocial personality disorder
  • Depressive disorders
  • Anxiety disorders

Who is at Risk for Tranxene Addiction?

Anyone who has been prescribed Tranxene and is using it as a form of treatment is at risk of developing an addiction to the drug. This is why the use of the drug in clinical medicine is closely regulated by the law. In order to reduce the risk of developing a Tranxene addiction, it is best to use the drug only for a short time period and never beyond the dose prescribed by your doctor. It is also best that you never combine the use of Tranxene with other substances without first informing your doctor. This especially includes combining Tranxene with alcohol or other stimulants to heighten its effects.

People with mental disorders are often at a higher risk of abusing Tranxene.

Teen Tranxene Abuse and Addiction

Adolescence can be an emotionally trying period for a teenager. Such circumstances can lead a teen to ill-advisedly abuse Tranxene with the aim of escaping the troubles of everyday life. This is more likely if a teen has easy access to Tranxene either from friends or family

It is misguided to assume that Tranxeneor other prescription medicationis safer than street drugs. In actuality, benzodiazepines like Tranxeneare actually just as dangerous, especially if they are abused alongside painkillers or alcohol. If abused frequently or in high doses, Tranxene use can become habit-forming or addictive and can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Because of its potency, it is best Tranxene not be used to manage anxiety or stresses of day to day living.

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Cost of Tranxene Addiction

The cost of Tranxene addiction treatment will vary based on a number of factors. For instance, the severity of addiction and how long treatment will last will all factor into the cost of treatment. Also, whether treatment is received via an outpatient or inpatient program will also affect how much treatment costs. Treatment at an inpatient facility generally costs more than what is provided at an outpatient facility due to the added cost of boarding and intensive round the clock care. But the cost of treatment can be minimised if your insurance policy actually covers addiction treatment and if the treatment facility accepts insurance.

Asides from the financial cost of Tranxene addiction, there’s also the cost arising from how it affects your relationships and professional career. When a drug habit takes control of your life, it can make you negligent concerning your job or relationships. This can result in problems at home, distancing from friends, and possible failure in education, workplace, or other aspects of your professional life.

The Effects of Tranxene Abuse on the Brain and Body

Tranxene acts on GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) receptors found in various sections of the brain. These receptors can also be referred to as benzodiazepine receptors. Tranxene acts on these GABA receptors by increasing inhibitory effects of neurotransmitters in those sections of the brain. This action is what leads to Tranxene’sanxiolytic, sedative, and anticonvulsant effects.

By increasing effects of GABA on the brain, Tranxene will minimise activity within the central nervous system and lead to sedating and pleasurable sensations.

The relationship between Tranxene and Other Substances

On its own, Tranxene is already a highly potentially addictive drug. But when you combine Tranxene with other central nervous system depressants, you increase its potency and thus put yourself at risk of suffering an overdose. There are also other substances that when combined with Tranxene, they lead to an increased toxicity of the drug thus rendering it poisonous.

In order to use Tranxene safely, it is best to never use the drug alongside other substances without first informing your doctor. For instance, Tranxene combined with alcohol will lead to heightened intoxication which can endanger you.

Medicines such as cold or allergy medicine, sleeping pills,narcotic pain medicine, and an MAO inhibitor may also interact wrongly with Tranxene. Combining the drug with muscle relaxers, medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety, and medicines for treating psychiatric disorders can also be potentially dangerous.

For your safety, disclose all medications that you are on to your doctor, including vitamins and supplements, when you are prescribed Tranxene.

Tranxene Overdose explained

An overdose occurs when you consume more Tranxene than your body can metabolise. A Tranxene overdose can be fatal if not quickly managed by a medical professional. Overdose typically manifests with symptoms such as a change in consciousness, drowsiness, fainting, sleepiness, and an overly relaxed state. Most Tranxene overdose cases often involve the drug being used along with alcohol or some other central nervous system depressant (polydrug abuse).

Treatment in such a scenario can involve inducing vomiting or the pumping of your stomach to clear it of Tranxene. If you have very low blood pressure, you might be administered norepinephrine, metaraminolbitartrate, or bitartrate. Flumazenil may also be administered.

Once an overdose occurs, unconsciousness may follow and spiral into a coma and possible death. To avoid such an outcome, contact emergency services immediately you notice any of the symptoms of overdose.

Tranxene Withdrawal

Tranxene withdrawal is a host ofuncomfortable symptoms Tranxene addicts go through when they quit using the drug. Withdrawals can occur if you developed a dependency on the drug while using it to treat an ailment or while abusing the drug recreationally. In general, withdrawal brought on by Tranxene addiction is believed to be less severe than what’s experienced with stronger benzodiazepines like Xanax.

The duration and severity of Tranxene withdrawal will depend on how long you have been abusing the drug, dosage frequently used, if you were combining the drug with other substances, as well as other relevant factors.

Symptoms of Withdrawal

Tranxene withdrawal symptoms can include; dry heaves, sleep disturbances, irritability, hypersensitivity, dehydration, tremors, nervousness, increased heart rate and blood pressure, extreme anxiety, headaches, muscle pain, and seizures. In extreme cases, patients suffer from seizures, hallucinations, psychosis, and delirium.

Duration of Withdrawal

How the withdrawal process proceeds is often dependent on a variety of factors and it is rare to have two individuals experience Tranxene withdrawals exactly the same way. For instance, how long one has been abusing Tranxene, how often the drug was abused, and the dose will contribute to how long withdrawals last and how severe the symptoms are. Because of Tranxene’slong half-life, the onset of withdrawal symptoms may be delayed for days or weeks, and elimination of the drug from an elderly person’s body usually takes longer.

Physical withdrawal symptoms in a typical scenario can last for anywhere between a couple weeks or months, while psychological symptoms can go on for several months after cessation of drug use

Tranxene Withdrawal Timeline

Week 1For some, withdrawal symptoms can start manifesting within 24 hours of their last dose. For others, it can take as long as a week. First signs of withdrawal are usually anxiety, sweating, loss of appetite, agitation, and accelerated heart rate.

Weeks 2-3Withdrawal symptoms often peak around this period with depression and insomnia being the most prominent symptoms. Others with severe cases may experience psychosis and seizures.

Weeks 4-6By this period, symptoms will begin to fade and become increasingly manageable.

Weeks 7+Severe addiction cases by this time might still be yielding psychological symptoms such asdepression, anxiety or cravings. This can continue for months after quitting Tranxene. In due time, these symptoms will eventually fade.

Tranxene Addiction Treatment

Withdrawal symptoms from quitting Tranxene can be medically dangerous if not properly managed. A medically assisted detoxification can help reduce the discomforts of withdrawal as well as minimise risks and avoid any health or mental complications. This can be accomplished by monitoring your vital signs and providing a safe, structured environment where you can make a full recovery from Tranxene addiction.

Upon completion of detoxification, you can receive further treatment via the following;

  • Inpatient treatment: This is intensive short-term care that focuses on stabilising a recovering addict medically and psychiatrically.
  • Outpatient therapy: Different types of treatment are used to help you recover and you can leave the drug rehabilitation centre each day after receiving treatment.
  • Residential recovery assistance: This is a longer-term form of treatment that’s delivered in a safe and comfortable environment.
  • Recovery housing: An example is a sober living house where rules are less rigid and you can easily make a transition back to independent living while recovering.
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Therapy for Tranxene Addiction

Inpatient rehabilitation therapy is ideal for recovering fromTranxene addiction. Such therapy provides for withdrawal symptoms to be effectively managed while you are kept safe and comfortable in an environment that is conducive to recovery.In such a setting, you will have an easier time getting past the strange distortion of senses that occur during Tranxene withdrawals.

Furthermore, professional round the clock care will monitor you for convulsions or seizures which might be life-threatening. Formal substance abuse disorder treatment will also be provided and it can consist of individual therapy, support groups, counselling, and psychoeducation.

Complete treatment for substance abuse and dependence is a long-term process, and since there is no absolute cure for addiction, said treatment must be ongoing to keep a recovering addict sober long term. Ongoing treatment is often provided via support groups and aftercare services to help you manage your life in a healthy manner post-addiction.

Possible Complications

The overall benefits of going through a detox far outweigh its risks. But said risks are much easier to deal with if you know what they are and the possible complications they can lead to, as well as how to deal with them accordingly. Some of the common risks during the Tranxenewithdrawal process (especially an unprofessionally managed one) include;

  • Severe diarrhoea or excessive vomiting
  • Epileptic seizures
  • Suicidal ideation due to depression
  • Delirium tremens

To discover more about these complications, contact us for a friendly chat. And always remember that the risks of going through a detox are far less than what a lifetime of Tranxene addiction has to offer.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If you have been using Tranxene and notice that you require higher doses of the drug to achieve the desired effect or that you experience withdrawal symptoms whenever you fail to take a fresh dose, please contact a medical professional immediately. This is because increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms are signs that you have developed a physical dependence on the drug. The sooner you get help with substance dependence the better because the condition will only get worse in the absence of proper treatment.

Tranxene Recovery Plan

An effective recovery plan for Tranxene addiction is tapering, which involves gradual reduction of Tranxene doses till you are completely weaned off the drug. Tranxene may also be substituted for a longer acting benzodiazepine before tapering commences.

Detox is a crucial first step in making a full recovery, but the detox process is infinitely safer and effective if it is directly supervised by a medical professional. A medical professional will have the expertise to recommend medication as necessary and at appropriate doses to minimise withdrawal symptoms. The doctor can also offer tapering treatment that actually weans you off Tranxene. Tapering involves reducing Tranxene dose gradually till you’re completely weaned off the drug. How long tapering will go on for is mostly dependent on the severity of your addiction and withdrawal symptoms.

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Medical Detox for Tranxene

A medical detox is a good start towards making a full recovery from addiction and maintaining sobriety long-term. Medically assisted therapy may make use of the following medication to not only hasten your recovery but make the entire process less uncomfortable

  • Anti-seizure medication like carbamazepine or valproate to minimise symptoms.
  • Antidepressants with sedative effects like trazodone or imipramine
  • Diazepam (Valium) to manage rebound symptoms, as well as hallucinations and psychosis

Tranxene Addiction Statistics

  • 73% of heroin addicts use benzodiazepinessuch as Tranxene a minimum of once a week, while 15% of such abusers use Tranxene or similar medication every day.
  • About 41% of alcoholics use benzodiazepines like Tranxene while 80% of alcoholics below 30 years of age are dependent on such benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are used to temper the “high” of cocaine, enhance the effects of methadone, and are also taken in scenarios where heroin is unavailable.

FAQs

What is Tranxene?

Tranxene is a benzodiazepine medication with a long half-life. The drug is mostly prescribed for the treatment of insomnia and anxiety disorders, and can also be used in the management of alcohol withdrawal or seizure disorders.

How is Tranxene Used?

Tranxene is consumed orally and is usually prescribed for only a short time period – typically 2 to 4 weeks.

What Does Tranxene Look Like?

Tranxene is available in tablet form.

Is Tranxene Addictive?

Yes, same as most either benzodiazepines, Tranxene is highly addictive.

Who Abuses Tranxene?

Anyone prescribed Tranxene is likely to abuse it. But the elderly, teenagers and people with mental health disorders are more likely to inappropriately use Tranxene.

How Can I Spot Tranxene Addiction?

If you are using Tranxene and experiencing any of the following symptoms, then you have likely developed an addiction and are abusing the drug;

  • Been using Tranxene without a doctor’s prescription
  • Taking higher doses of Tranxene than prescribed
  • Using Tranxene in higher doses in order to achieve the desired effect. That is, developed a tolerance to the drug
  • Failed attempts to quit using Tranxene or to reduce doses
  • Continued abuse of Tranxene even though you are aware its negatively affecting your health, relationships, and life in general
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you miss a dose
  • Development of risky behaviours, such as driving while under the influence of Tranxene
  • Doctor shopping or using other illegal means to acquire more Tranxene

Is Tranxene Harmful?

While being useful for clinical purposes, Tranxene can also be harmful if not properly used. The main danger of Tranxene is its high potential for abuse and addiction, but using the drug long term also comes with a host of side effects, such as;

  • Anterograde amnesia
  • Dizziness
  • Nervousness
  • Ataxia
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting
  • Cognitive impairment
  • Confusion
  • Drowsiness
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dry mouth
  • Blurred vision
  • An increased risk of falls for elderly individuals

How do People Abuse Tranxene?

People generally abuse Tranxene by using it beyond recommended dose or using it more frequently than they should. Others abuse the drug by combining it with other central nervous system depressants or stimulants to heighten the drug’s effects.

What is Tranxene Dependence?

Being dependent on Tranxene may not necessarily mean that you are addicted to the drug. Dependence can be a metric for definingif you are actually addicted and it is usually signified by an increased tolerance to Tranxene as well as withdrawal symptoms when you fail to use a fresh dose of the drug.

Why is This Drug Addictive?

Tranxene is addictive because of how it influences the chemical structure of the brain and how it leads to physical dependence by causing the body to believe it cannot function normally without the drug in the system. This is caused by the drug’s influence on GABA receptors.

If you or a loved one are addicted to Tranxene get in touch with us at

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