What Does A Valium High Feel Like?

Valium (or diazepam) is a benzodiazepine, also known as benzos, that targets the central nervous system (CNS). As a prescription drug, Valium offers sedative effects for those with:

• anxiety disorders
• muscle spasms
• seizures
• panic attacks
• difficulty sleeping

Since Valium brings about a euphoric feeling of sedation, a Valium high can make you feel fuzzy, disoriented, or numb. Benzodiazepines increase the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that decreases activity in the brain. 

How To Tell If Someone Is High On Valium

Those who abuse Valium may exhibit signs and symptoms that others might notice. One of the ways you can tell if someone is high on Valium is by examining their behavior. They may seem to be intoxicated or exhibit impaired coordination. 

On top of this, the person suffering from a substance use disorder may use alternative methods to take the drug such as snorting or smoking. If someone injects the drug into their veins, you may notice marks on their arms or even sores and abscesses.

Effects Of Valium

Even though you might experience a high when taking Valium, there are other side effects to be aware of. When taken orally, Valium may cause the following side effects:

• fatigue
• impaired coordination
• drowsiness 
• headache 
• sleep discomfort
• insomnia 
• poor concentration

If administered in other ways, the side effects will be similar but may be strengthened if the drug is snorted, inhaled, or injected. 

Signs Of Valium Addiction

Those suffering from addiction may exhibit a wide range of symptoms. Some signs of Valium abuse include taking higher doses of the drug than directed or mixing it with other substances like alcohol or opioids. 

If you continue to use Valium despite experiencing the more serious side effects of drug abuse, you may have a substance use disorder. As harsher symptoms continue, you might experience:

• increased heart rate
• fluctuations in blood pressure
• irritability 
• muscle weakness
• confusion 
• slow reflexes

Valium Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms from Valium can also be intense and may require a professional detox program. Withdrawal symptoms occur if the drug is stopped abruptly after forming dependence. It is never recommended to stop diazepam “cold turkey,” or without professional assistance.

Ironically, Valium is the benzodiazepine used to help those dealing with alcohol withdrawal. Alcohol and Valium should never be mixed together due to the hazardous side effects that can be amplified after use.

Valium Overdose

When one continuously abuses the drug, the chances of an accidental Valium overdose can occur. This can lead to coma or serious effects, especially when it’s used with other central nervous system depressants. 

Combining Valium with opioids or other benzos like Ativan (lorazepam) for a stronger high can also cause a dangerous drug interaction. This interaction can lead to respiratory depression, shallow breathing, and death.

Treating Valium Addiction

If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse or addiction, help is available. We offer both inpatient and outpatient options, as well as detox programs to help you get started on the path towards recovery. 

Contact us today to learn more about our addiction treatment options.