Etizolam Addiction

Etizolam is among the most widely misused “designer drugs” globally with similar effects to Valium but up to ten times stronger. Initially developed for medical use, Etizolam’s high potential for abuse means that the transition to addiction can be swift and severe. Once trapped, individuals can face grave physical, psychological and personal issues which can destroy lives and relationships.

What is Etizolam?

Etizolam is a type of medication known as a thienodiazepine which is closely related to benzodiazepines and has similar effects. It was originally developed in the 1980s to treat conditions like anxiety and insomnia and works by selectively boosting the effectiveness of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter linked to fear, anxiety and stress. This is the same action as benzodiazepines but Etizolam does it at a far greater rate which is why it has become widely abused for its sedative and hypnotic effects.

While the similarities between Etizolam and benzodiazepines are what makes it medically effective, it is the differences that have increased this risk of abuse. Etizolam’s chemical structure distinguishes it from its benzo cousins, which means that Etizolam often evades detection in standard drug tests. This can make it an attractive prospect for recreational users.

Street names for Etizolam include Etiz, Etizzy and Easy.

What is Etizolam addiction?

Etizolam addiction is when you can’t stop using the drug, even though it is causing harm to your health, relationships and daily life. It is often categorised as a legal high addiction alongside other so-called legal highs or designer drugs. However, this categorisation can be misleading as Etizolam is a Class-C controlled drug in the UK making it illegal to possess or supply without a licence or prescription.

Etizolam addiction can hook you both physically and mentally. On the physical side, your body can get so used to the drug that you need more of it to feel the same effects, which is called building tolerance. As your body gets used to Etizolam being present, it can begin to rely on it entirely for GABA management. If you then quit, your body can go into severe withdrawal with Etizolam addiction withdrawal symptoms, including:

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Trouble sleeping
• Shaking or tremors
• Muscle pain and stiffness
• Sweating
• Feeling sick or throwing up
• Headaches
• Getting confused or having trouble thinking clearly
• Problems with seeing properly
• Seizures (in serious cases)

Mentally, you may find yourself craving Etizolam, especially in stressful situations, which makes the prospect of quitting seem impossible. Once you are both physically and mentally dependent on Etizolam, it is considered to be a full-blown addiction.

Etizolam abuse addiction in the UK

Although it’s not as commonly recognised as other drugs, Etizolam abuse and addiction are still serious issues. Its classification under the Misuse of Drugs Act means that there are serious fines and potential prison time for unlawful use and distribution. However, Etizolam is still available across the UK.

In Scotland, the effects of Etizolam abuse have been felt particularly keenly, with 58% of all drug-related deaths (772) in 2021 involving Etizolam. In the same year, Etizolam and similar substances accounted for 171 deaths in England and Wales, marking a jump from 62 deaths in 2020.

Signs and symptoms of Etizolam addiction

Catching the signs of Etizolam addiction is key to getting help fast and improving treatment outcomes. Here is what to look out for if you think you or someone else may be addicted to Etizolam::

• Being obsessed with getting and using Etizolam.
• Having to use more Etizolam than before to get the same calm feeling.
• Experiencing Etizolam addiction withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking it
• Missing work or school or becoming distanced from family and friends due to Etizolam use.
• Knowing that Etizolam is affecting your life but continuing to use it.
• Having constant mood swings when using Etizolam or due to withdrawal or cravings.
• Getting into financial trouble or legal issues because of Etizolam use.

Typical causes of Etizolam addiction

As with many drugs, there is often a mix of factors that result in a person developing an Etizolam addiction. Some of the typical causes include:

The dangerous side effects of Etizolam addiction

If you or someone you know is struggling with Etizolam addiction, it’s crucial to understand the serious risks involved. The most dangerous risk of all is overdosing on Etizolam with symptoms that include profound confusion, severely reduced reflexes, coma and, in extreme cases, death. This is an emergency and requires immediate medical attention.

Other potential issues that can arise from Etizolam addiction include:

• Drowsiness and excessive sleepiness
• Muscle weakness and lack of coordination
• Slurred speech and dangerously slow reactions
• Confusion, memory loss and disorientation
• Lowered blood pressure, dizziness and fainting
• Potential seizures if you stop taking Etizolam suddenly
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Emotional numbness
• Deepening depression: What might start as a way to manage anxiety can worsen depression over time, diminishing your quality of life.
• Heightened anxiety
• Issues with relationships and at work or school

Is there treatment available for Etizolam addiction?

There are effective treatment modules found within various rehab centres across the UK. Most rehab programmes encompass detox, a purge of Etizolam from the body and withdrawal management, therapies to combat underlying factors of substance abuse and relapse prevention.

How to get help for Etizolam addiction

If you or someone you care about is struggling with Etizolam addiction, taking the first step towards getting help can feel daunting, but it is crucial for recovery. You can refer yourself to a private rehab centre to gain instant access to treatment with our guidance. The sooner you act, the better your chances of making a full and lasting recovery from Etizolam addiction.
 

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