Last Updated:
August 1st, 2025
Bromazepam Addiction | Symptoms, Effects and Causes
What is bromazepam?
Bromazepam is a type of benzodiazepine prescribed to ease anxiety, nervous tension and, in some cases, panic disorders. Calming activity in the brain helps people feel more at ease and better cope with overwhelming thoughts or feelings. It’s sometimes used for short-term relief from insomnia when anxiety is the underlying cause.
In the UK, it’s less commonly prescribed than other anxiety medications but may still be used in certain cases.
Is bromazepam addictive?
Because bromazepam is short-acting and takes effect quickly, it’s considered to be addictive, especially when taken for longer than prescribed or in higher doses. The fast onset of calming effects can make the drug feel immediately rewarding, which increases the risk of psychological dependence. Over time, some people may begin to rely on bromazepam to get through everyday situations, even those that wouldn’t normally cause anxiety.
Physically, the body can build a tolerance to bromazepam, meaning larger doses are needed to feel the same effect. This can quickly spiral into regular use and, eventually, addiction.
Withdrawal symptoms like rebound anxiety, irritability, sweating, and insomnia can also make it difficult to stop without support, which is another sign of how dependence can develop.
Because of these risks, bromazepam is usually prescribed for short-term use only. However, even with short-term use, some people may struggle to stop. This is why it’s important to follow a doctor’s guidance carefully and to seek help if stopping becomes difficult.
Struggling with an addiction? If you are ready to seek help, reach out to us today, and a member of our compassionate team will help you find the best option for starting your recovery journey.
What are the signs of bromazepam addiction?
If you or someone you love is taking bromazepam, it’s important to be aware of the signs of addiction. We’re not here to scare you away from taking your prescription, as when used properly, bromazepam can be incredibly effective for managing anxiety.
But like many benzodiazepines, it carries a risk of dependence, especially if it’s taken over a longer period. Awareness of the warning signs means staying informed and looking for your well-being.
- Constant drowsiness: feeling overly tired or groggy, even after a full night’s sleep.
- Slurred speech: speaking slowly or with unclear pronunciation, especially after taking a dose.
- Poor coordination: stumbling, dropping things or struggling with basic physical tasks.
- Headaches: recurring tension headaches, particularly when a dose is missed.
- Muscle weakness: feeling physically drained, with less strength or stamina than usual.
- Tremors or shaking: experiencing slight hand or body tremors, especially during periods without the drug.
- Increased anxiety between doses: instead of relieving anxiety, the drug seems to create more when it wears off.
- Low mood or apathy: feeling emotionally flat or no longer interested in things that used to matter.
- Mental fog: struggling to think clearly, make decisions or remember everyday details.
- Cravings: thinking about the next dose or feeling uneasy without it.
- Irritability: snapping easily or feeling agitated for no clear reason.
- Restlessness: finding it hard to relax or sit still without taking the medication.
- Taking more than prescribed: increasing the dose without speaking to a doctor.
- Doctor hopping: visiting multiple doctors to try and get extra prescriptions.
- Avoiding social plans: staying home more often to use or recover from the effects of the drug.
- Neglecting responsibilities: letting work, school or family obligations slip.
- Secretive behaviour: hiding how much is being taken or being defensive when asked about it.
- Difficulty cutting back: trying to stop or reduce the dose but not being able to stick with it.
If any of these signs feel familiar, it might be time to talk with your GP or a specialist. Support is always available, and recognising the signs early can make all the difference.
Do I have a bromazepam addiction?
It’s easy to scroll past signs and symptoms on a screen and convince yourself they don’t apply, but if you’ve got that gut feeling that something isn’t quite right, it’s worth checking in with yourself. Bromazepam can be helpful when used correctly, but like many medications, it can also become something you rely on more than you intended.
Below are six questions. If you answer ‘yes’ to any of them, it might be a sign that your relationship with bromazepam is starting to shift.
- Do you feel anxious or uncomfortable when you haven’t taken your usual dose?
- Have you tried to cut down or stop taking bromazepam but found it difficult?
- Are you taking more than your prescribed amount or using it in a way that wasn’t recommended?
- Do you feel like you need bromazepam just to get through the day or to feel ‘normal’?
- Have you noticed changes in your mood, memory or energy levels since starting the medication?
- Are you hiding your use or feeling defensive when someone asks about your prescription?
Being honest with yourself is the first step. If these questions resonate, know that there are caring, nonjudgmental services that can help you move forward.
How can I get support for a bromazepam addiction?
When you’re in the thick of any addiction, moments of pause, those small windows where you reflect on what’s going on, can feel overwhelming. It might feel like you’re stuck and that the only way to get through the day is to keep feeding the addiction. But we’re here to tell you that it doesn’t have to be that way. Support is out there, and it’s often in the form of rehab.
Many people are put off by the idea of going to rehab. There are many misconceptions floating around. Some imagine locked doors, judgment or being cut off from the world. In reality, rehab is about connection, clarity and giving yourself the time and space to heal in a supportive environment.
What can I expect at bromazepam rehab?
Bromazepam rehab typically begins with an initial assessment, where your needs are carefully looked at so your recovery can be tailored to you.
Detox is the next step, where your body is gradually and safely supported in coming off the drug, with professionals by your side.
After that, therapies like CBT, one-to-one counselling and group support are used to explore why the addiction formed and how to build long-term coping strategies.
Once the programme ends, aftercare helps you stay connected and supported as you adjust to life outside rehab.
No matter how things feel right now, change is possible.
What are the next steps?
If you’re struggling with bromazepam addiction, Addiction Helper is here to guide you. We offer free, confidential advice and can connect you with the right support tailored to your needs. Whether you’re looking for detox, rehab or just someone to talk to, we’re ready to help you take the next step. Call Addiction Helper today; you don’t have to do this alone.
Our compassionate team are ready and available to take your call, and guide you towards lasting the lasting addiction recovery you deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Click here to see works cited)
- Bromazepam: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action | Drugbank Online, go.drugbank.com/drugs/DB01558. Accessed 3 Apr. 2025.
- Purcell K, Bianchi PW, Glenn D, Blakey B, Motov S. Ketamine: A Potential Adjunct for Severe Benzodiazepine Withdrawal. Cureus. 2021 Dec 2;13(12):e20114. doi: 10.7759/cureus.20114. PMID: 35003959; PMCID: PMC8723697.
