Home | Substances | Benzodiazepine addiction

Benzo Addiction Treatment in Philadelphia

At MPower Wellness in Philadelphia, our benzo addiction treatment programs provide the structure and expert care needed to help you heal. Using evidence-based therapies and long-term relapse prevention, we help you or your loved one build the skills and confidence needed for lasting recovery from benzodiazepine addiction.

Medically Reviewed By Dr. Singh

1 min read

Updated September 24, 2025

Understanding Benzodiazepines

When you hear the word benzodiazepines, or benzos for short, you might think of medications often prescribed to ease anxiety or manage seizures. Some of the most familiar names include Xanax (alprazolam), Valium (diazepam), and Klonopin (clonazepam).

These medications work by calming activity in your brain, making you feel more relaxed and in control. Doctors often prescribe them for short-term relief because they act quickly and can provide comfort when you’re struggling.

But it’s important to recognize that the same effects that make benzos helpful can also create risks. A study published in Neurology International pointed out that long-term use of benzodiazepines may impact your memory and overall cognitive health. That means while benzos can be effective tools, they need to be used carefully and under professional guidance.

Understanding how these medications work and the potential risks that come with them helps you make informed choices about your health and well-being.

Benzodiazepine Addiction

Benzo use is common, and misuse is more widespread than many people realize.

An extensive systematic review in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that tranquilizers/benzodiazepines were the third most commonly misused prescription/illicit drug in the U.S., with about 2.2% of people reporting past-year misuse. Even as prescriptions increased over the years, overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines surged, and emergency room visits more than tripled—particularly when the drugs were combined with opioids or alcohol.

What Raises Benzo Addiction Risk?

You’re more likely to see problems if you already use other substances, have an active benzo prescription (more access), or are coping with anxiety, insomnia, or mood symptoms without enough support. Many people start by self-treating sleep or stress with extra doses, then slip into patterns that are hard to stop, particularly during young adulthood.

Benzo misuse is a worldwide public-health concern, but spotting it early and getting the right help makes all the difference.

Request a Call

Struggling with addiction or mental health? You don’t have to face it alone—request a confidential call today.

Request a confidential call from a member of our team. We are here to guide you through the admissions process, explain treatment options and costs, and help you understand what to expect. thats for request a call

Signs and Symptoms of Benzo Addiction

When it comes to benzodiazepines, the line between safe use and misuse can blur quickly. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you or a loved one avoid serious health risks.

You might be facing benzodiazepine addiction if you notice behaviors like:

Taking your medication in larger amounts or more often than prescribed
Visiting multiple doctors to get extra prescriptions
Needing higher doses to feel the same effects (tolerance)
Experiencing mood swings, irritability, or poor concentration
Mixing benzos with alcohol or other drugs to enhance the effects

Over time, these patterns can put your health and safety at risk. A study published in The Mental Health Clinician found that benzodiazepine abuse is especially dangerous when combined with opioids or alcohol, leading to skyrocketing emergency department visits and overdose deaths.

Health risks linked to benzo misuse include:

Life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including seizures
Breathing problems and risk of overdose, especially when combined with other substances
Long-term cognitive decline, such as memory and focus problems
A higher chance of ER visits related to benzodiazepine misuse
Greater risk of accidents, falls, or injuries

If you see these signs in yourself or someone you care about, don’t wait until things get worse. At MPower Wellness, we provide evidence-based care to help you break free from benzodiazepine addiction. Our team will support you every step of the way so you can rebuild your health and regain control of your life.

Benzodiazepine Misuse Withdrawal Symptoms

Quitting benzos on your own can be dangerous. Research published by the National Institutes of Health explains that stopping benzodiazepines suddenly may trigger serious complications because of how the drug impacts your brain and nervous system. That’s why withdrawal should always be done under professional medical care, with a safe procedure designed just for you.

Possible withdrawal symptoms include:

Seizures
Severe anxiety or panic attacks
Tremors, sweating, and nausea
Insomnia and restlessness
Strong cravings

Medically supervised detox programs gradually monitor your mental and physical health while prescribing medication when needed to keep you safe and prepare you for the next stage of recovery.

MOST INSURANCE ACCEPTED

Up to 100% of the costs covered by insurance. At MPower Wellness, we accept most insurance plans. Verify your insurance to get information about your coverage.

Treatment for Benzodiazepine Abuse and Addiction

Overcoming benzodiazepine addiction isn’t easy, but with the right support, you can regain balance and stability in your life.

Research published in Australian Prescriber highlights that the most effective treatment for benzodiazepine addiction often includes gradual tapering, switching to a longer-acting medication like diazepam, and combining this with therapy and support systems. Quitting suddenly is unsafe, so having a structured plan makes all the difference.

Here’s what treatment may look like for you:

Gradual Tapering

Instead of stopping all at once, your doctor will help you slowly lower your dose over weeks or months. Tapering benzodiazepines reduces the risk of seizures and makes the process safer and more manageable.

Medication Support

Medication management is essential. Sometimes switching to a longer-acting benzo is recommended before tapering. Other medications, such as anticonvulsants like carbamazepine or pregabalin, may be used to ease withdrawal effects.

Therapy and Counseling

Psychological support is also crucial. Research shows that combining gradual tapering with therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is more effective than tapering alone. You’ll learn healthier coping strategies for anxiety or insomnia that may have contributed to your benzo use.

Maintenance Programs

If you’re at higher risk of relapse or dealing with complex mental health conditions, a maintenance plan may be suggested. This approach focuses on stability first, so you have time to build strength before working toward complete abstinence.

Supportive Care

Having family support, community programs, or group therapy can make a huge difference in your motivation and confidence.

At MPower Wellness, we use these evidence-based approaches to create a treatment plan that’s personalized for you.

Benzo Addiction Treatment Programs

Effective benzodiazepine addiction treatment includes multiple levels of care to address each stage of recovery. When you’re struggling with benzodiazepine addiction, it can feel overwhelming to imagine life without using the drug. We want you to know that recovery is possible, and you don’t have to walk this path alone. Our Philadelphia addiction treatment programs are designed to meet you where you are, helping you heal safely while rebuilding your strength and independence.

Medical Detox

Recovery often starts with detox, but you never have to go through it alone. An experienced medical team provides continuous support, easing withdrawal symptoms and safeguarding your health throughout the process. With careful, medically supervised tapering, your body is given the time it needs to adjust safely. This stable foundation promotes physical and emotional balance, preparing you for the next stage of treatment and long-term recovery.

Inpatient Rehab Program

An inpatient rehab program provides 24/7 supervision, structured therapy, and relapse-prevention planning in a safe and supportive setting. This level of care is recommended for those with severe dependence or co-occurring mental health issues. If your dependence feels severe or you’re also dealing with other substance use disorders, inpatient rehab provides 24/7 care in a structured and supportive environment. During inpatient care, you’ll focus entirely on recovery, with therapies designed to rebuild coping skills and reduce your risk of relapse.

Outpatient Treatment

We know that not everyone can step away from their life responsibilities. That’s why we offer flexible outpatient programs, ranging in intensity from partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs to standard outpatient treatment. You’ll have access to therapy and family sessions that build accountability and trust, all while keeping balance in your daily life. Outpatient care allows you to stay connected to the people and routines that matter most while getting the help you need.

Aftercare & Relapse Prevention

From sober living environments and peer support groups to individualized relapse prevention planning, aftercare services provide the structure and encouragement you need to stay resilient through life’s challenges. With the right tools and community behind you, you can protect your progress and continue growing in recovery.

At MPower Wellness, we believe recovery means more than sobriety; it’s about rebuilding confidence, purpose, and connection. No matter how long you’ve struggled, healing is always possible, and our team is here to walk with you every step of the way.

Why Choose MPower Wellness for Benzo Addiction Treatment?

Finding the right place to begin your recovery is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make.

At MPower Wellness in Philadelphia, you’ll receive specialized care for benzodiazepine addiction and co-occurring substance use disorders, guided by licensed professionals who understand both the science of addiction and the emotional journey of healing. Your safety and well-being are our highest priorities, with medically supervised care to help you taper off benzos safely and comfortably.

Beyond stabilization, you’ll engage in evidence-based therapies that address not only addiction but also the underlying mental health challenges, such as anxiety or depression, that often accompany it. Here, compassionate care meets clinical expertise, creating a space where healing feels possible and you’re empowered to rebuild your life with confidence and purpose.

We’re here to walk with you through your options & answer every question.

FAQs

What Should You Know About Prescribed Benzodiazepines and Tapering Benzodiazepines?

If you’ve been prescribed benzodiazepines for anxiety or another condition, it’s important to use them exactly as intended. Long-term benzodiazepine use can cause dependence, which is why medical supervision is so critical. Tapering benzodiazepines gradually, rather than stopping suddenly, helps lower the severity of withdrawal and reduces risks like seizures or respiratory depression.

Why Are Physical Symptoms and Cognitive Impairment a Significant Concern With Benzo Addiction?

Benzo misuse can create serious physical symptoms. You might notice sleep problems or even memory issues linked to cognitive impairment. These health effects may develop slowly, but over time, they can impact your well-being and daily life. That’s why the American Psychiatric Association recognizes benzodiazepine misuse as a significant concern that requires professional treatment.

How Can Addiction Medicine Help With Benzodiazepine Use and Doctor Shopping?

Addiction medicine is designed to treat the full picture of dependence, from the physical to the psychological. If you’ve been engaging in doctor shopping to obtain higher doses of commonly prescribed benzos, help is available. Specialists in addiction medicine can review your prescriptions, monitor risks, and develop a safe plan that addresses both the symptoms and the underlying issues. At MPower Wellness, we use a blend of therapy and relapse prevention strategies to guide you back to health.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery from Benzodiazepine Addiction

If you or a loved one is struggling with benzo addiction, MPower Wellness in Philadelphia is here to help. Our addiction treatment programs provide the support and care you need to begin healing.

Call us at (484) 517-3005 or contact us through our website to start your recovery journey at our trusted benzodiazepine addiction treatment center in Philadelphia.

Sources:

Bounds CG, Patel P. Benzodiazepines. [Updated 2024 Jan 30]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470159/

Brett, J., & Murnion, B. (2015). Management of benzodiazepine misuse and dependence. Australian prescriber, 38(5), 152–155. https://doi.org/10.18773/austprescr.2015.055

Edinoff, A. N., Nix, C. A., Hollier, J., Sagrera, C. E., Delacroix, B. M., Abubakar, T., Cornett, E. M., Kaye, A. M., & Kaye, A. D. (2021). Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations. Neurology international, 13(4), 594–607. https://doi.org/10.3390/neurolint13040059

Schmitz A. (2016). Benzodiazepine use, misuse, and abuse: A review. The mental health clinician, 6(3), 120–126. https://doi.org/10.9740/mhc.2016.05.120

Votaw, V. R., Geyer, R., Rieselbach, M. M., & McHugh, R. K. (2019). The epidemiology of benzodiazepine misuse: A systematic review. Drug and alcohol dependence, 200, 95–114. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.drugalcdep.2019.02.033

To learn more, give us a call, fill out our free insurance form, or send us an email—whatever’s easiest for you. We’re here to answer your questions and help you take the next step.

Medical Reviewer

Dr. Singh

Dr. Deepraj Singh is a board-certified psychiatrist. She graduated from Albany Medical College and completed her residency at Drexel University. Due to her passion for learning as well as teaching, she joined the Drexel University faculty to teach resident physicians and medical students. She started out her career in emergency psychiatry, but has expanded into working in outpatient, day program, inpatient and targeted case management programs. She is also certified in ECT and TMS. She performed ECT for persons with severe depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorders. She has always been interested in ways to improve care for her patients. This has led her to pursuing leadership roles such as medical directorships at various outpatient programs and inpatient facilities. These opportunities have allowed her to make changes at an organization level as well as community level. She strives to provide a comfortable atmosphere and a thorough evaluation. She believes in the holistic approach to care, aspires to integrate the biopsychosocial aspects as well physical health, and nutrition into her evaluation and treatment of her patients.