Benzodiazepines, commonly known as benzos, are a class of drugs that are prescribed for treating conditions like anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal. Some common benzos include Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Ativan. While benzos can be very effective in providing short-term relief for these conditions, long-term use often leads to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.
When someone develops a tolerance to benzos, it means they need to take higher and higher doses to get the same effects. This happens because the brain adjusts to the constant presence of the drug and compensates by reducing the number and sensitivity of benzodiazepine receptors. As a result, standard doses become less effective over time.
Many people who use benzos daily or in high doses end up experiencing severe withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking them suddenly. This is because their body has become dependent on the medication. Benzo withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, insomnia, muscle spasms, tremors, and seizures. That’s why it’s extremely important to consult a doctor and taper off benzos slowly rather than stopping them abruptly.
Is it possible to reverse benzo tolerance?
The short answer is yes, it is possible to reverse tolerance to benzodiazepines, but it takes time and dedication. There are a few different methods that people attempt in order to reset their benzo tolerance.
1. Slowly tapering off usage
One of the most effective ways to reverse benzo tolerance is to gradually taper down dosage over the course of weeks or months. This gives the brain time to readjust and recover while avoiding severe withdrawal symptoms. Tapering plans are tailored to the individual based on factors like:
- How long they’ve taken benzos
- Which benzo they take
- The dosage amount
- Their current level of tolerance
A doctor can help design a customized tapering schedule that incrementally drops the dosage at certain intervals. This gradual process reduces tolerance while minimizing uncomfortable side effects. Quitting benzos cold turkey is never recommended due to the dangers of withdrawal.
2. Taking a “benzo holiday”
Another potential way to reset tolerance is to take a break, or a “holiday,” from using benzos for a while. This means stopping benzo usage completely for a designated period of time such as a few weeks or months. It allows the brain and body to fully clear out and recover from the effects of the drug. Once the “holiday” period ends, people find that their previous dosage now gives them stronger effects again.
However, this method is most suitable for those taking benzos for short periods of time. Those who have used benzos for extended periods may find it difficult to stop usage abruptly without experiencing intense and dangerous withdrawal effects. Their safest option is to taper slowly off benzos.
3. Switching between different benzos
Rotating between different types of benzos can help prevent a tolerance from building up to any single one. For example, someone could switch from taking Xanax to Valium, and then back to Xanax after some time. This technique can essentially “trick” the brain receptors, but it carries some risks.
With this method, users need to be very careful about cross-tolerance. If someone has built up a significant tolerance to one benzo, it can reduce the effects of other similar drugs. Additionally, switching benzos often can increase the risk of dependence. It’s best to consult a doctor before trying this.
Are there any supplements that can reverse benzo tolerance?
Some people take over-the-counter supplements in an attempt to reverse their benzo tolerance faster. However, there is limited scientific evidence that these supplements are effective. Here are a few that are sometimes used:
Melatonin
Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. There is some anecdotal evidence that high-dose melatonin can mildly re-sensitize GABA receptors and curb tolerance. However, these claims need to be researched further.
Magnesium
Magnesium plays a role in GABA activity in the brain. Some preliminary research in mice suggests it may slightly help lower benzodiazepine tolerance, but human data is lacking.
L-theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid found in green and black tea. It appears to affect alpha waves in the brain. A few small studies show it may slightly inhibit tolerance to diazepam.
While these supplements may provide minimal benefits, they are not well-proven treatments. The only foolproof way to reverse benzo tolerance is through medical detox and slowly tapering dosage.
How long does it take to reset benzo tolerance?
The amount of time it takes to successfully reverse tolerance depends on several factors like:
- Which benzo you’re using
- How long you’ve taken it
- Your dosage amount and frequency
- Your natural body chemistry
In general, the longer you’ve taken benzos continuously, the longer it will take to fully reset your tolerance. For example:
| Benzo Use Duration | Approximate Time to Reset Tolerance |
|---|---|
| Less than 6 weeks | 4-8 weeks |
| 6 weeks to 5 months | 8-16 weeks |
| 5 months to 1 year | 16-26 weeks |
| 1-2 years | 26-52 weeks |
| Over 2 years | Over 1 year |
This table gives rough estimates only. Timeframes vary based on the individual situation. Patience and commitment to the tapering schedule are required to successfully reset tolerance. Expect the process to be gradual over an extended period.
Tips for reversing benzo tolerance
Here are some helpful tips for trying to reverse tolerance to benzodiazepines:
- Consult your doctor – Work with them to create a safe, slow tapering schedule.
- Make incremental cuts – Reduce your dosage by small amounts every 1-2 weeks.
- Stick to the schedule – Avoid temptation to increase your dosage again.
- Consider therapy – Counseling can help you manage anxiety and stress.
- Find alternatives – Try meditation, exercise, good sleep habits.
- Be patient – It takes time for the brain and body to heal.
- Join a support group – Connect with others going through the same process.
Conclusion
Reversing tolerance to benzodiazepines is possible but requires great care, discipline, and medical guidance. There is no fast and easy way to reset tolerance quickly. The only proven effective method is to gradually taper dosage over an extended period. While supplements may provide some minimal benefit, they are not a replacement for proper detoxification.
It’s important for benzodiazepine users to realize that tolerance reversal takes time. Have realistic expectations and be patient throughout the process. With commitment and the right support, it is possible to undo the brain changes that led to tolerance and regain sensitivity to a lower benzo dosage again.