Benzodiazepines, commonly known as benzos, are a class of prescription medications primarily used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms. These drugs work by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain, which leads to a calming effect. Commonly prescribed benzos include Xanax, Ativan, Valium, Klonopin, and Restoril. Understanding How Many Days Do Benzos Stay In Your System is crucial for various reasons, including drug testing, managing potential side effects, and navigating addiction treatment.
Benzodiazepines can be detected in the body through various drug tests, including urine, blood, hair, and saliva tests. The detection window, or the length of time benzos remain detectable, varies depending on the specific type of benzo and the testing method used. Let’s delve into the typical detection times for common benzos and the factors that can influence these durations.
Benzodiazepine Detection Times in Different Body Fluids
The duration that benzodiazepines remain detectable varies depending on the specific drug and the type of test administered. Here’s a breakdown of common benzodiazepines and their approximate detection windows:
1. Xanax (Alprazolam) Detection Times
Xanax, the brand name for alprazolam, is a short-acting benzodiazepine frequently prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders.
How Long Does Xanax Stay in Urine?
Xanax is typically detectable in urine for 3 to 7 days after the last dose. This makes urine tests a common method for detecting Xanax use over the past week.
How Long Does Xanax Stay in Blood?
In blood, Xanax has a shorter detection window, usually around 1 to 2 days following the last dose. Blood tests are often used for more recent drug use detection.
How Long Does Xanax Stay in Hair?
Hair follicle tests offer the longest detection window. Xanax can be detected in hair for up to 90 days after the last use, although some sources suggest it may be detectable for a shorter period, around 1 to 7 days post-administration, depending on hair sample length and testing sensitivity.
How Long Does Xanax Stay in Saliva?
Saliva tests provide a detection window for Xanax of approximately up to 2.5 days after the last dose, making it a useful method for recent use detection but shorter than urine.
2. Ativan (Lorazepam) Detection Times
Ativan, known generically as lorazepam, is another commonly prescribed benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, seizures, and insomnia.
Ativan in Urine
Ativan can be detected in urine for roughly 3 to 6 days after the last dose, similar to Xanax.
Ativan in Blood
The detection window for Ativan in blood is shorter, generally around 6 to 8 hours after the last dose, but it might extend slightly longer with regular use.
Ativan in Hair
Similar to other benzodiazepines, Ativan can be detected in hair follicles for an extended period, up to 90 days after the last administration.
Ativan in Saliva
Ativan is typically detectable in saliva for about 8 hours to 3 days following the last use, with the duration varying based on individual factors.
3. Valium (Diazepam) Detection Times
Valium, or diazepam, is a longer-acting benzodiazepine used for anxiety, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal.
How Long Does Valium Stay in Your Urine?
Valium can typically be detected in urine for 3 to 7 days after the last dose, similar to Xanax and Ativan.
How Long Does Valium Stay in Your Blood?
In blood, Valium’s detection window is approximately 6 to 48 hours after the last dose, which is longer than some shorter-acting benzos but still shorter than its urine detection time.
How Long Does Valium Stay in Your Hair?
Valium can be detected in hair for up to 90 days, reflecting the long-term detection capability of hair follicle testing.
How Long Does Valium Stay in Your Saliva?
Valium can generally be detected in saliva for 1 to 10 days after the last dose, showing a slightly longer saliva detection time compared to shorter-acting benzos.
4. Klonopin (Clonazepam) Detection Times
Klonopin, or clonazepam, is a long-acting benzodiazepine used for panic disorder, seizures, and social anxiety disorder.
Klonopin in Urine
Klonopin is usually detectable in urine for 5 to 7 days after the last dose, potentially slightly longer than shorter-acting benzos.
Klonopin in Blood
The detection window for Klonopin in blood is around 1 to 3 days after the last dose, shorter than urine detection.
Klonopin in Hair
Like other benzodiazepines, Klonopin can be detected in hair for up to 90 days.
Klonopin in Saliva
Klonopin is generally detectable in saliva for 1 to 4 days following the last dose.
5. Restoril (Temazepam) Detection Times
Restoril, or temazepam, is a benzodiazepine primarily prescribed for insomnia.
Restoril in Urine
Restoril can typically be detected in urine for 3 to 7 days after the last use, consistent with the urine detection window for many benzos.
Restoril in Blood
Restoril has a shorter detection window in blood, generally detectable for 1 to 3 days after the last use.
Restoril in Hair
Restoril can be detected in hair follicles for an extended period, up to 90 days.
Restoril in Saliva
Restoril is detectable in saliva for a shorter period than urine, typically 1 to 3 days after the last use.
Cost of Addiction Treatment
Insurance coverage banner for addiction treatment, emphasizing accessibility and financial support.
5 Key Factors Influencing How Long Benzos Stay in Your System
Several factors can influence how long do benzos stay in your system, causing variations in detection times among individuals. These include:
-
Age: Older adults typically metabolize medications more slowly due to age-related changes in liver and kidney function. This can lead to benzodiazepines remaining in their system for a longer duration.
-
Kidney Function: Impaired kidney function can affect the elimination of certain benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam and chlordiazepoxide, potentially prolonging their presence in the body.
-
Liver Function: The liver is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing benzodiazepines. Liver dysfunction can slow down the breakdown process, causing benzos like diazepam, chlordiazepoxide, and lorazepam to stay in the system longer.
-
Benzo Dosage: Higher doses of benzodiazepines generally take longer to be eliminated from the body compared to lower doses due to the increased amount of substance that needs to be metabolized.
-
Frequency of Use: Chronic or frequent benzodiazepine users may experience slower clearance rates compared to occasional users. Regular use can lead to accumulation in the body, extending the detection window. A single dose is typically eliminated more quickly.
Due to these factors, the time it takes for benzodiazepines to clear the body varies significantly from person to person. While there is no definitive universal timeframe, most benzodiazepines are nearly eliminated from the body after approximately five half-lives of the specific drug.
Benzodiazepines in Your System: Types of Drug Testing
Various drug testing methods are used to detect benzodiazepines, each with different detection windows and levels of invasiveness:
-
Urine Testing: Urine drug tests are the most common and are effective for detecting benzodiazepines for several days to weeks after use. They measure drug metabolites that are filtered through the kidneys and excreted in urine.
-
Saliva Testing: Saliva tests, or oral fluid tests, are less invasive than urine tests and are most accurate for detecting recent drug use, typically within hours to a few days of use.
-
Hair Testing: Hair follicle drug tests offer the longest detection window, capable of detecting benzodiazepine use for up to 90 days (approximately three months) in the past. However, they are less commonly used for detecting very recent use.
-
Blood Testing: Blood tests provide an accurate measure of current drug levels and are effective for detecting benzodiazepines within a few days of use. However, they are more invasive and expensive than urine or saliva tests.
-
Perspiration Testing: Perspiration or sweat testing is a less common method, sometimes used in parole or probation cases for long-term monitoring. Results from sweat patches can take up to two weeks to process.
Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment Options
For individuals struggling with benzodiazepine dependence or addiction, various treatment options are available to support recovery:
a. Medical Detoxification
Medical detox is often the first step in addiction treatment. It provides round-the-clock medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably as the body clears benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous and should be managed by healthcare professionals.
b. Residential Rehab (Inpatient Rehab)
Residential or inpatient rehab involves staying at a treatment facility where individuals can focus entirely on their recovery. After detox, inpatient rehab programs offer therapy, counseling, and support to address the psychological aspects of addiction and develop coping mechanisms for a benzo-free life.
c. Outpatient Rehab
Outpatient rehab programs offer flexibility for individuals who can live at home while attending treatment sessions. These programs are suitable for those with less severe addiction or as a step-down from residential rehab. Outpatient services may include individual and group therapy, medication management, and telehealth options.
d. Aftercare Programs
After completing rehab, aftercare programs provide ongoing support to help individuals maintain their sobriety. These programs may include support groups, relapse prevention strategies, and continued therapy to navigate life without benzodiazepines.
e. Dual Diagnosis Treatment
For individuals with co-occurring mental health disorders and benzodiazepine addiction, dual diagnosis treatment programs are essential. These programs address both the addiction and the underlying mental health condition simultaneously, providing comprehensive care for holistic recovery.
ChoicePoint offers a range of addiction treatment services, with DEA-certified practitioners and facilities like the center in Fairlawn, New Jersey. For more information or to verify insurance, individuals can contact ChoicePoint at 844.445.2565.
Frequently Asked Questions About How Long Do Benzos Stay in Your System
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding benzodiazepine detection times:
What Medications Can Cause a False Positive for Benzodiazepines?
Certain medications can potentially cause false positives on benzodiazepine drug tests, including:
- Oxaprozin (Daypro)
- Sertraline (Zoloft)
- Tolmetin (Tolectin)
- Naproxen (Aleve)
- Etodolac (Lodine)
- Fenoprofen (Nalfon)
It’s important to inform testing facilities of any medications being taken to avoid misinterpretations of drug test results.
Where Are Benzodiazepines Metabolized?
Benzodiazepines are primarily metabolized in the liver. Liver enzymes break down these drugs through various metabolic pathways, which ultimately allows them to be eliminated from the body, mainly through urine.
Do Different Types of Benzos Stay in Your System for Different Lengths of Time?
Yes, different types of benzodiazepines have varying half-lives and metabolic pathways, leading to different durations of time they remain detectable in the system. Longer-acting benzos generally stay in the system longer than shorter-acting ones.
What Are the Longest and Shortest Acting Benzodiazepines?
Flurazepam is considered one of the longest-acting benzodiazepines, while triazolam has one of the shortest half-lives among commonly prescribed benzos.
How Long Can You Test Positive for Benzodiazepines?
Depending on the type of benzodiazepine, frequency of use, individual factors, and the drug testing method used, you can test positive for benzodiazepines for several days up to 90 days (in hair follicle tests) after the last use.
Medical Disclaimer:
The information provided by ChoicePoint is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with qualified healthcare professionals for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment. ChoicePoint’s team of medical professionals strives to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the content, but it should not be considered a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment.
