Substance Guides

Withdrawal from alcohol and from benzodiazepines such as Xanax, Valium and Klonopin can cause seizures and can be life-threatening, so it should be done under medical supervision, never stopped suddenly on your own. Opioid withdrawal is rarely dangerous by itself but is very hard to get through, and the loss of tolerance afterwards raises the risk of overdose. Learn about medical detox.

Physical dependence means the body has adapted to a drug, so stopping causes withdrawal; it can happen even with medicines taken exactly as prescribed. Addiction, called a substance use disorder, means continuing to use a substance despite harm to your health, work or relationships. The two often occur together, and both can be treated.

Not when they are misused. Prescription opioids, benzodiazepines and stimulants can all lead to addiction and overdose when taken in ways other than prescribed. Pills bought outside a pharmacy may also be counterfeit: the DEA warns that fake pills made to look like prescription medicines often contain fentanyl, which can be deadly in very small amounts.

Call 911 right away. Signs can include slow or stopped breathing, blue or gray lips, pinpoint pupils, seizures, or being unable to wake up. If opioids may be involved, give naloxone (Narcan) if you have it; it is sold without a prescription. Stay with the person until help arrives and tell responders what they may have taken.

Florida has licensed programs at every level of care, from medical detox and residential treatment to outpatient programs and medication-assisted treatment. Search Florida rehabs by city, county or ZIP code, or call the free SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for confidential help finding a program 24 hours a day.