Is Librium A Controlled Substance Or A Narcotic?
Medically reviewed by
Dr. Ted Bender, Ph.D., LCDCMay 9, 2019
Librium is a benzodiazepine that is classified as a controlled substance. This drug is used to treat anxiety disorders as well as alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Librium comes with the potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction.
Librium is the brand name for the drug chlordiazepoxide. Chlordiazepoxide was the first benzodiazepine to be introduced to the market. This drug is typically used in the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, or to help combat alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Librium is similar to other benzodiazepines like Valium and Xanax. It works as a central nervous system depressant by slowing down the brain and body. It also decreases the amount of nerve impulses in the brain. This elicits feelings of calmness and relaxation.
This drug is typically only prescribed for short-term use. Librium should be used exactly as prescribed. Abusing this drug can put individuals at risk for dependence and addiction.
Is Librium A Controlled Substance?
Controlled substances are drugs that have been categorized by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). Drugs are classified in five schedules. Each schedule denotes the likelihood of dependence, medical use, and abuse potential of a drug.
Benzodiazepines like Librium are classified as Schedule IV drugs. Substances that are part of the Schedule IV category have less of a potential for abuse and addiction than drugs in Schedules I, II, and III.
However, because Librium is a controlled substance, it still has potential for dependence and addiction.
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Is Librium A Narcotic?
The term “narcotic” is typically only used to classify drugs that are opioids. Because Librium is a benzodiazepine, not an opioid, this drug is not a narcotic.
Treatment For Librium Abuse And Addiction
Like other benzodiazepines, Librium has the potential for abuse and addiction. Even when someone takes Librium as prescribed, he or she may become dependent on the drug which can lead to addiction.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Librium, there are several treatment options available. These options include medically supervised detox programs, inpatient programs, and outpatient treatment.
To learn more about whether Librium is a controlled substance or a narcotic, contact a treatment specialist today.
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