Zetran Addiction and Abuse

Zetran is a brand name drug, with the generic name diazepam. Zetran is classified as a benzodiazepine. It’s often prescribed to patients to help treat severe anxiety disorder, to alleviate insomnia, and as a sedative. Zetran can also be given to treat muscle spasms. Sometimes Zetran is also recommended as an anticonvulsant, and to manage symptoms that occur as alcohol leaves the body. When Zetran is prescribed to help with serious seizures, it is done so only in the short-term. Zetran isn’t a medication intended to treat ongoing seizures.

All benzodiazepines have a calming effect on the central nervous system (CNS) but they’re intended as short-term treatment options, rather than as a long-term medication. Zetran is unique from some other versions of diazepam because it’s available as an injectable solution. The solution can be injected when immediate effects are required, or the person can’t take it by mouth. While this is a helpful medication for many people, developing a psychological need for Zetran and misuse are possible.

As with other medications, there are possible side effects of Zetran. Some Zetran side effects can include drowsiness, sedation and blurred vision. Severe possible side effects can include mood or mental changes, hallucinations, confusion, depression, muscle weakness, tremors, trouble urinating, fainting, or changes in heartbeat. It’s important to avoid alcohol while on Zetran because it tends to amplify negative side effects. Combining Zetran and alcohol can also cause a lack of alertness or blurred vision. Elderly adults are warned that the side effects of Zetran can be more pronounced for them, especially drowsiness and loss of coordination.

Diazepam is the same active benzodiazepine ingredient in Valium. Zetran addiction and misuse are possible, which is true of other benzos as well. Benzodiazepines are believed to affect certain neurotransmitters in the brain. The main neurotransmitter affected by benzos is called GABA. This brain neurotransmitter suppresses nerve activity, thereby reducing anxiety. Specifically, benzos reduce nerve activity in the brain and the spinal cord by increasing the effectiveness of GABA.

Zetran misuse often begins when someone takes this substance in a way other than what’s directed by a physician. This can include taking a higher dose than what a doctor instructs or by taking it more often. Zetran misuse can also occur if a person takes this medication without a prescription, or is using it recreationally to achieve certain effects, such as relaxation. Before a doctor prescribes Zetran, they will often go over a patient’s medical history to ensure they aren’t at high risk of developing an issue with substance use or psychological addiction. As with almost any substance that affects the activity of the brain, Zetran can lead to addiction.

Addiction to Zetran can begin even when someone uses it as prescribed. When the brain’s reward pathways are activated, as they are with benzodiazepines, it can trigger addiction. Zetran addiction means a person loses control of their need to take the substance. A person who is addicted to Zetran may keep taking it even when there are negative consequences. Psychological addiction is also defined by compulsive drug-seeking behaviors. The likelihood of developing an addiction is higher when people combine Zetran with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids.

There is also the risk of physical dependence that comes with the use of Zetran. Physical dependence is different from addiction. With dependence, the user’s body and brain become dependent on the presence of the substance to feel normal. If someone is physically dependent on Zetran and they stop using it suddenly, they may go through withdrawal. Withdrawal symptoms of Zetran can be serious. This is why it’s often prescribed only as a short-term medication. The longer someone takes Zetran, the more likely they are to become psychologically addicted or physically dependent on it.

The benzodiazepine drug class is the sixth most misused among adults in the U.S., according to statistics from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. While benzos like Zetran can be helpful for some people and can treat certain conditions, they’re not always good for all patients. The sense of calm and relaxation they create can feel like a high to some people, and this can create a cycle of misuse. With that being said, it can be difficult to identify whether someone is struggling with Zetran addiction or misuse, or whether they’re taking this medication as prescribed. For that reason, loved ones often have to learn the signs, symptoms and side effects of Zetran addiction or misuse, to know what to look for.

The Recovery Village works with people struggling with Zetran addiction and misuse, as well as other substance use disorders. Our team works with patients on specialized, individualized programs to tackle not only the physical but also the mental elements of addiction and drug dependence.