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American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Librium

Librium is the brand name for chlordiazepoxide, a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders as well as alcohol withdrawal-related symptoms. Librium and other benzodiazepines work by enhancing the effects of a chemical in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which stops or slows down some signals to the brain, resulting in a calming effect. Benzodiazepines are considered central nervous system depressants, also referred to as CNS depressants. Librium is intended for short-term use only and can easily be addictive. If you feel that you have become addicted to the drug, call our 24/7 helpline at for information about Librium addiction treatment programs.

Physical Effects

Librium is known to have several potential effects on an individual, including stopping seizures, causing sleepiness, lowering anxiety levels and muscle relaxation. In addition to these potentially useful physical effects, there are possible adverse side effects such as:

  • Involuntary muscle movement in the eyes, jaw, neck or tongue
  • Hyperactivity
  • Confusion
  • Agitation
  • Hallucination
  • Jaundice
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Irregularity of menstrual cycle
  • Skin rash
  • Swelling

If you experience these symptoms, it is important that you consult your physician. It is not suggested that you stop use of Librium abruptly. If you feel that you have become addicted to the drug, you should seek Librium addiction treatment as soon as possible.

Potential Overdose

Taking Librium in a manner other than prescribed or suggested is considered to be an overdose of Librium. There were approximately 27,000 unintentional drug overdose deaths in 2007 in the United States, averaging one death every 19 minutes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. It is very important that you keep track of your prescription and when you should take it. Individuals who overdose on the drug should seek medical attention immediately by dialing 911. After an overdose, your physical condition will need to be stabilized before you enter into any type of Librium rehab program.

Symptoms of Withdrawal

Individuals must not stop taking Librium abruptly due to the physical and psychological dependence it can cause. When stopping the use of the drug, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Sensitivity to light or sound
  • Dizziness
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Increased heart rate
  • Memory loss
  • Insomnia
  • Excessive sweating
  • Confusion
  • Irritability

While these are some of the common withdrawal symptoms, not every person will have the same experience. If you do plan to stop taking this drug, you will likely need some assistance to avoid potential health hazards. Librium detox will likely be recommended prior to entering into a Librium addiction treatment program. Contact our 24/7 help-line at to find detox programs that will fit your needs.

Detox Programs

Detox programs help you to cope with the withdrawal symptoms of Librium. This is the first step in entering a Librium rehab program. While going through detox, medical professionals will monitor your physical condition and make adjustments to help you cope with the symptoms of withdrawal. Some programs will administer medication to ease the symptoms. Once the individual has removed the drug from their system, they will be able to move on to a Librium addiction treatment program. Prescription drug medication addiction affected approximately 16 million people in the United States in 2010, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Treatment Programs

“There are a number of treatment options when it comes to Librium rehab. You can choose from private and public facilities to pursue your treatment.”There are a number of treatment options when it comes to Librium rehab. You can choose from private and public facilities to pursue your treatment. Private programs often provide more amenities such as private rooms and bathrooms. You can find alternative methods of treatment in these facilities such as combining meditation and yoga into the process.

Both private and public programs usually consist of some combination of group therapy, individual therapy and family therapy. Administrators of the programs will try to determine the underlying issues relating to your addiction and address them. You will also be given the tools to help you stay free from Librium addiction after you complete the program. This may consist of support systems that you can call upon when tempted or coping mechanisms to put into action when you come into contact with stressors and triggers that could push you back into your addictive behavior.

Unsure where to start? Take Our Substance Abuse Self-Assessment

Take our free, 5-minute substance abuse self-assessment below if you think you or someone you love might be struggling with substance abuse. This evaluation consists of 11 yes or no questions that are designed to be used as an informational tool to assess the severity and probability of a substance use disorder. The test is free, confidential, and no personal information is needed to receive the result. Please be aware that this evaluation is not a substitute for advice from a medical doctor.

Factoid:

  • Many physicians will test the blood and liver function of patients taking Librium on a regular basis to ensure that no damage is being done.
  • Individuals with glaucoma, bronchitis, asthma, liver disease, kidney disease or a history of depression may have problems using Librium. Discussing this with your physician is encouraged.
  • Elderly individuals could be more sensitive to the effects of Librium, and lower initial dosages may be used as there is a greater risk of falls.
  • Stopping the use of Librium abruptly can cause seizures. Contact us at any time of day or night at to get direction on selecting a Librium addiction treatment program to help you stop using the drug.

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