Signs, Symptoms & Side Effects of Prosom Abuse

Prosom Addiction and Dependence

Prosom is a prescription drug used primarily for the short-term treatment of insomnia. The Prosom brand isn’t currently available in the U.S., but generic versions of the drug, known as estazolam, may be. Prosom and estazolam are classified as benzodiazepines, which are among the most widely prescribed drugs in the U.S. Brand-name drugs like Xanax and Klonopin are also benzodiazepines. All benzos have the potential for abuse and addiction, which is why they’re only intended for short-term use.

Taking a benzodiazepine like Prosom can trigger a reward response in the brain, which the brain sees as pleasurable. The human brain wants to continue seeking out things that create pleasure, which in this instance is a prescription drug. Addiction to benzodiazepines and other drugs is characterized by compulsive, out-of-control drug-seeking and usage. Not everyone who uses Prosom will become addicted, but the risk is there.

Physical dependence is also a risk with Prosom and other benzodiazepines. Dependence is distinct from addiction. A person can be physically dependent on Prosom and other prescription drugs, even if they’re not abusing them or addicted. If a person who is dependent on Prosom stops using it suddenly, the body will struggle to return to normalcy. The result can be withdrawal symptoms. Sometimes for people dependent on Prosom and benzos, tapering down their dosage slowly may be sufficient to avoid withdrawal. For heavy or long-term users, though, a medical detox may be necessary to manage symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Prosom Abuse

It can be difficult to spot the signs and symptoms of Prosom abuse, especially if someone is prescribed this medication. There is often a fine line between using a prescription benzodiazepine and abusing it. In fact, many people who display signs of Prosom abuse have a prescription for the drug. A few of the primary signs and symptoms of Prosom abuse include

• Taking Prosom more often than what has been prescribed
• Taking larger doses of Prosom or developing a tolerance for it
• Ingesting Prosom in ways other than directed, such as chewing it
• Combining Prosom with other substances such as opioids or alcohol to increase the effects
• Using Prosom without a prescription

There may also be physical signs of Prosom abuse that become apparent. Some of the physical symptoms of Prosom abuse include

• Irritability
• Depression
• Changes in personality
• Dizziness
• Panic attacks
• Heart palpitations
• Hallucinations
• Memory loss
• Blurred vision
• Weakness
• Drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Lack of judgment
• Problems with motor coordination

If someone abuses Prosom or other benzodiazepines over a long-term period, symptoms and side effects can include

• Changes in appetite
• Rebound insomnia
• Anxiety
• Tremors
• Headaches
• Memory problems

While the symptoms listed above are signs of abuse, their presence doesn’t necessarily mean a person is addicted. Addiction is a chronic brain disease with its own set of signs and symptoms. The following are some of the signs and symptoms of Prosom addiction or benzodiazepine addiction in general:

• Spending a significant amount of time thinking about Prosom or trying to obtain more
• Continuing to use Prosom even when there are negative consequences
• Trying to stop using Prosom and being unsuccessful
• Declining performance at school or work
• Compulsive drug-seeking behaviors
• Doctor shopping to obtain more prescriptions
• Withdrawing from friends, family and responsibilities

Many of the signs and symptoms of Prosom abuse and addiction are similar to withdrawal symptoms associated with benzodiazepines. Benzo withdrawal can be especially dangerous or even deadly and can include the physical symptoms listed above, as well as possible seizures.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Prosom, another sleep aid, benzos or any other substance, please contact The Recovery Village. We create individualized treatment plans, beginning with a safe, medical detox.