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4 Common Treatment Methods for Rohypnol

an adult male sits on the edge of his bed holding an alcoholic drink while thinking about is alcohol a depressant

Rohypnol (flunitrazepam), infamously dubbed the date-rape drug, is a prescription benzodiazepine about 10 times stronger than similar drugs, like Valium and Xanax. Rohypnol is illegal in the US, but it is widely available in Europe and Latin America, so it is often sold even in America. Relative to other substances, Rohypnol is an inexpensive drug that usually costs a few dollars on the street, and it is popular in dance clubs and among young people. Benzodiazepines are usually intended for short-term use, as they have high risks for addiction and dependence. Professional rehab is the safest and most effective way to address Rohypnol abuse, and below are four common ways an addiction is treated.

Tapered Detox

To break physical dependence, it is important to reduce Rohypnol dosage gradually under medical supervision. Abruptly stopping or decreasing use can result in a protracted withdrawal syndrome, which the National Institute on Drug Abuse says can cause seizures, convulsions, psychiatric problems and increases in blood pressure and heart rate. A 2011 edition of the Journal of the Oklahoma State Medical Associated also notes that these seizures can involve violent muscle contractions, unconsciousness and possibly death, but a gradual detox provides more comfort as it minimizes associated health risks.

Integrated Mental Health Care

Rohypnol is a mental health drug, so people may use it to self-medicate undiagnosed disorders. Rehab centers typically provide mental health screenings, diagnoses and integrated treatment for co-occurring disorders. Furthermore, doctors commonly prescribe benzodiazepines and other sedatives for anxiety, panic and sleep disorders, and holistic and therapeutic approaches are often used to treat recovering addicts with these conditions. A 1998 edition of the journal Addictive Behaviors notes that anxiety disorders often lead to substance abuse.

Behavioral Therapies

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) can improve addicts’ behavior. CBT targets negative and maladaptive thought patterns as it promotes positive emotions and beliefs, while DBT helps patients address conflicting impulses so they can make healthy choices. Both therapies treat substance abuse, anxiety disorders and other mood issues. Therapy also empowers patients to identify, avoid and mitigate cues that trigger drug cravings.

Individual and Group Counseling

Addiction and mental health counseling occur in both individual and group settings. One-on-one treatment sessions may address unresolved trauma, unconscious conflicts and specific struggles, while group sessions often involve training in life skills, stress management, conflict resolution and social connections. Group counseling also gives patients the chance to share their thoughts and experiences to develop social support, which are important for lasting recovery.

Rohypnol abuse has serious risks. Per the Drug Abuse Warning Network, in 2011 sedatives like Rohypnol accounted for more than half a million medical emergencies, which is a 124% increase since 2004. Furthermore, the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry stated in 2005 that benzodiazepines are often a secondary drug, which means Rohypnol users may also have other addiction issues. By using a variety of treatment methods, rehab centers can empower patients to overcome co-occurring addictions and mental health disorders.

Call our toll-free, 24 hour helpline now, and one of our admissions coordinators will provide additional information and answer any questions you have. They can explain treatment methods, options and facilities, and they can even check your health insurance policy for rehab benefits. If you or a loved one struggles with substance abuse, then please call now to find instant help.

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