If you’re dealing with benzodiazepine use or testing, you might feel overwhelmed. Maybe you’re anxious to know how long they’ll show up in tests, or you’re just trying to figure out the facts. Benzodiazepines, or benzos as most people call them, are often prescribed to treat anxiety or sleep problems. Some people use them as directed, while others might take them recreationally. Either way, understanding how they work and how long they stick around in your body is important.
This guide breaks down what you need to know about how long benzos stay in your system. We’ll cover their detection times in urine, blood, saliva, and hair. You’ll also learn about factors influencing how long benzos stay in your system.
What Are Benzos?
Benzos are prescription drugs that affect the central nervous system. Doctors commonly use them for treating anxiety, panic disorders, muscle spasms, or seizures. There are different types of benzos, including short acting benzodiazepines, intermediate acting benzos, and long acting benzodiazepines. Each kind works for different amounts of time. Some start acting quickly but leave your system faster, while others last longer.
Common examples of benzodiazepines include Xanax, Valium, and Ativan. These drugs help calm your body and mind by slowing down brain activity. While they can be helpful when used correctly, they can also be addictive or misused. So, how long do benzodiazepines stay in your system?
How Long Do Benzos Last in Urine?
Urine drug tests are one of the most common ways of detecting benzodiazepines. How long benzos stay in urine can vary depending on the type of benzodiazepine you take, how much you take, and how often you use them. For most benzos, they can be detected in urine for up to 28 days.
Short-acting benzos like Ativan might show up for a shorter time, while long term use of long acting benzodiazepines like Valium will stay in your urine longer. Keep in mind that things like your metabolism, hydration level, and liver function also play a big role.
How Long Do Benzos Last in Blood?
Blood tests can detect benzodiazepines for a shorter window compared to urine tests. Typically, benzos remain in your blood for up to 3 days after you take them. This time can be shorter or longer based on a few things, like how much you took, the type of benzodiazepine, and your body’s natural ability to process the drug.
Because blood tests have a shorter detection window, they’re usually used in situations where recent use is suspected. For example, law enforcement might use this test if they believe someone was driving under the influence within the past 24 hours.
How Long Do Benzos Last in Saliva?
If you’re taking a saliva testing method, benzos are typically detectable for up to 3 days. However, saliva is not the best option for tracking benzo use. It often depends on when the sample is collected and the specific drug you’ve taken.
Saliva tests also don’t work well for people using small amounts of benzos. This method is popular for its ease and noninvasive nature, but it isn’t always reliable.
How Long Do Benzos Last in Hair?
Hair testing can reveal if you’ve used benzos within the last 90 days. Hair holds onto drugs for much longer than blood, urine, or saliva. This is because substances become trapped in the growing hair strands.
Hair tests are often used for situations requiring proof of long term drug use or misuse. Keep in mind that washing your hair doesn’t remove the drug. These tests are highly accurate but can be expensive to carry out.
How to Get Benzos Out of My System Fast?
If you’re in a rush to clear benzos from your body, it’s tempting to try out home remedies. Unfortunately, many DIY methods don’t work and could even be harmful. Drinking lots of water, exercising, or using detox teas might make you feel better, but they won’t change how fast your body processes the drug.
The safest and most effective way to detox from benzos is through a professional detox program. These programs monitor your withdrawal symptoms and help you manage the process safely. Doctors can also provide medication if needed and make sure your body gets back to normal in a healthy way. At a center like Saddleback Recovery’s Detox Treatment, you’ll have expert guidance throughout the detox process.
Best Benzo Detox Treatment Center in Costa Mesa CA
How long benzos stay in your system depends on several factors. Factors affecting how long benzos stay in your system may include the type of benzo, how much you’ve used, and your body’s chemistry. But no matter the lengths of time in various tests, the safest and fastest way to get benzos out of your system is through professional detox.
If you or someone you know is struggling with benzodiazepines, consider reaching out to Saddleback Recovery Detox Treatment Center. We offer a caring, professional environment where you can safely detox and get the support you need. Call us today to learn more about our expert detox services.
