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How Long Benzodiazepines Stay In Your System?

Writing by Posted On: May 31, 2023
Francisco Church
Chief Editor of - Recovery Ranger

Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking...Read more

Benzodiazepines are a group of powerful medications that can be used to treat a variety of conditions. While these medications can be effective in treating disorders such as anxiety and insomnia, it is important to understand how long they stay in your system and the potential risks associated with prolonged use. In this article, we will discuss how long benzodiazepines stay in your system, the potential risks associated with prolonged use, and tips for safe and effective use.

Benzodiazepines typically remain in your system for 2-7 days, although this can vary depending on the specific drug, dose, and your own metabolism. For most people, this means that if you take a benzo, it will stay in your system for approximately one week. However, this can vary based on factors such as how much of the drug was taken and how it was taken (e.g., orally, intravenously, etc.). Your own metabolism also plays a role in how long benzos stay in your system, with some people metabolizing the drug faster or slower than others. Additionally, chronic or long-term use of benzos can increase the amount of time they remain in your system.

How Long Benzodiazepines Stay in Your System?

How Long Do Benzodiazepines Stay in Your System?

Benzodiazepines are a class of drug used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions. They work by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), an important neurotransmitter in the brain. The effects of benzodiazepines in the body can last from several hours to a few days, depending on the type of drug used and how much was taken. This article will look at how long benzodiazepines stay in your system and what factors can affect the duration of their effects.

How Long Do Benzodiazepines Last?

The duration of benzodiazepines in the body can vary widely depending on the type of drug used. Short-acting benzodiazepines such as lorazepam (Ativan) and alprazolam (Xanax) can last for several hours, while longer-acting benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin) can last for up to several days. The half-life of a drug is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body. The half-life of benzodiazepines can range from as little as 11 hours for lorazepam to as long as 200 hours for diazepam.

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Factors That Affect How Long Benzodiazepines Stay in Your System

There are several factors that can affect how long benzodiazepines stay in your system. These include:

Dosage

The amount of benzodiazepine taken can affect how long it stays in the body. Higher doses of benzodiazepines can last longer, while lower doses will be eliminated from the body more quickly.

Metabolism

The speed of an individual’s metabolism can affect how quickly benzodiazepines are eliminated from the body. People with faster metabolisms may clear benzodiazepines from their system more quickly than those with slower metabolisms.

Age

The age of an individual can also affect how quickly benzodiazepines are eliminated from the body. Older individuals may take longer to clear benzodiazepines from their system than younger individuals.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions or medications can affect how quickly benzodiazepines are eliminated from the body. Liver or kidney disease, for example, can slow down the elimination of benzodiazepines.

How Long Do Benzodiazepines Stay in Urine and Blood Tests?

Benzodiazepines can be detected in urine and blood tests for up to 7 to 30 days after the last dose. The detection window for benzodiazepines in urine and blood tests depends on the type of drug used, the dose taken, the individual’s metabolism, and other factors.

Urine Tests

Benzodiazepines are typically detectable in urine tests for up to 7 to 14 days after the last dose. Long-acting benzodiazepines such as diazepam may be detectable for up to 30 days.

Blood Tests

Benzodiazepines are typically detectable in blood tests for up to 7 to 14 days after the last dose. Long-acting benzodiazepines such as diazepam may be detectable for up to 30 days.

What Is the Best Way to Get Benzodiazepines Out of Your System?

The best way to get benzodiazepines out of your system is to stop taking them. Benzodiazepines are eliminated from the body over time, so if you stop taking them, they will eventually be cleared from your system. It is important to talk to your doctor before stopping benzodiazepines, as sudden discontinuation of the drug can be dangerous and lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Risks of Taking Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are habit-forming and can lead to addiction if taken for a long period of time. It is important to use benzodiazepines only as prescribed and to follow the instructions of your doctor.

Physical Dependence

Regular use of benzodiazepines can cause physical dependence, meaning that the body becomes used to the effects of the drug and needs it to function normally. Physical dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped.

Tolerance

Tolerance to benzodiazepines can develop, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. This can increase the risk of addiction and other side effects.

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Few Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What are benzodiazepines?

A1. Benzodiazepines, also known as “benzos”, are a type of prescription drug used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. They act on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect and can be habit-forming if not taken as prescribed by a doctor. Common examples of benzodiazepines include Xanax, Valium, and Ativan.

Q2. What factors affect how long benzodiazepines stay in your system?

A2. The amount of time that benzodiazepines stay in your system is affected by several factors, including the type of drug, dosage, age, weight, and metabolic rate. Additionally, your individual metabolic rate and how often you take the drug can also affect the length of time that benzodiazepines stay in your system.

Q3. How long do short-acting benzodiazepines stay in your system?

A3. Short-acting benzodiazepines, such as Xanax, are typically metabolized and excreted from your system within 4 to 6 hours. However, the drug may remain in your system for up to 24 hours, depending on your dosage and metabolism.

Q4. How long do long-acting benzodiazepines stay in your system?

A4. Long-acting benzodiazepines, such as Valium, are typically metabolized and excreted from your system within 8 to 24 hours. However, the drug may remain in your system for up to 3 days, depending on your dosage and metabolism.

Q5. Are benzodiazepines detectable in a drug test?

A5. Yes, benzodiazepines are detectable in most standard drug tests. In particular, benzodiazepines are detectable in blood, urine, and saliva tests for up to 3 days after the last dose.

Q6. Are there any risks associated with taking benzodiazepines?

A6. Yes, there are several risks associated with taking benzodiazepines. Long-term use can lead to dependency, addiction, and increased risk of overdose. Additionally, people taking other medications or with certain medical conditions should be especially cautious when taking benzodiazepines. It is important to always consult with a doctor before taking any prescription medication.

How long does Xanax stay in your system?

In conclusion, it is important to understand how long benzodiazepines stay in your system and the potential side effects of taking them. Although they can be effective in treating certain conditions, they can also be highly addictive and should be taken only as prescribed by a doctor. Understanding the duration of benzodiazepines’ effects can help you make an informed decision about your health and well-being.

Francisco ChurchChief Editor of - Recovery Ranger

Francisco Church is a rehabilitation specialist and the chief editor of Recovery Ranger. He creates this site to offer guidance and support to individuals seeking to overcome addiction and achieve lasting sobriety. With extensive experience in the field of addiction treatment, Francisco is dedicated to helping individuals access the resources they need for successful recovery.

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