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Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It is also used to treat certain types of seizures. This medication belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which act as central nervous system depressants.
Xanax works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural brain chemical in the body (GABA). This chemical helps to reduce abnormal excitement in the brain, which can lead to anxiety and other psychiatric disorders. Xanax is used to treat a variety of conditions, including:
Overall, Xanax can be a helpful medication when used correctly. However, it does not come without its risks. Keep reading to learn more about the effects of Xanax, and how you can find help to overcome your benzodiazepine dependence today!
Xanax use has become a relatively widespread issue throughout the US, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that, currently, 12.5% of US adults use prescription drugs like benzodiazepines.
This equates to around 30.5 million people, with 17.1% of this population having been found to participate in prescription drug abuse. Studies also found that around 20% of those using Xanax and other benzodiazepines in the US got these drugs from friends or family members instead of a doctor.
Fake Xanax pills have also become more common throughout the illicit drug market, putting users at great risk of experiencing adverse effects, including overdose, from unknowingly ingesting false and potentially dangerous products.
Xanax works by increasing the naturally-occurring chemical GABA in the body, promoting feelings of calmness, euphoria, and relaxation. This is what makes this medication so effective for treating mental health conditions such as anxiety disorder and panic disorders.
However, this is also what makes this drug so prone to substance abuse and addiction. Someone who regularly takes Xanax pills will have a higher risk of forming a physical dependence on this highly addictive drug.
Furthermore, when people abuse Xanax over a long period of time, they will be at risk for more than just a physical addiction. Xanax users may find themselves developing a number of unpleasant side effects, which will require professional help to be properly managed.
Xanax is generally considered safe and effective when used as prescribed by a doctor. It is usually prescribed for short-term use and is usually taken several times a day in small doses. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions carefully, as taking too much of the drug can lead to dependence and addiction.
Xanax can be highly addictive. When someone takes Xanax regularly and in high doses, it can cause physical and psychological dependence. People who become dependent on this drug may experience unpleasant withdrawal effects when stopping Xanax, such as anxiety, agitation, and insomnia.
People who take Xanax for long periods of time or who take it in large doses are at an increased risk of addiction. Those who abuse Xanax or take it recreationally are also at an increased risk of dependence.
While Xanax can be a helpful tool in managing mental health issues, it is also an addictive substance with potentially serious side effects when abused. While each person may react differently to this drug, there are several common side effects to be aware of when misusing this medication.
The most common physical effects of abusing Xanax are sedation, dizziness, and impaired coordination. These effects can cause a person to feel drowsy, making it hard to concentrate and increasing the risk of falls and accidents.
Other common side effects include changes in appetite and weight, blurred vision, headache, and nausea. Long-term abuse of Xanax can lead to cognitive impairment, memory problems, and changes in personality.
Xanax abuse can also have psychological side effects, such as depression and paranoia. Prolonged use of Xanax can lead to addiction and dependence, which can cause a person to prioritize the drug over relationships, work, and other important aspects of life.
Furthermore, due to the way Xanax affects the body, this medication can also make an individual’s mental disorders worse with prolonged misuse. This is why it is always important to use this drug as prescribed and to seek professional help if you suspect that you may be abusing your medication.
While accepting that you or a loved one may be struggling with an addiction, doing so will be the first and most important step in getting the help that you need.
The signs of Xanax addiction can be both physical and mental. Physically, signs of Xanax addiction may include changes in appetite, weight gain or weight loss, drowsiness, dizziness, and changes in breathing or heart rate.
Signs of tolerance may also be present, such as needing higher doses to feel the drug’s effects or taking more than prescribed. Other physical signs may include slurred speech, impaired coordination, and slowed reflexes, especially if this occurs on a regular basis.
Mentally, signs of Xanax addiction may include cravings for the drug, difficulty concentrating or thinking, irritability, and feelings of restlessness or agitation.
The addicted individual may also become preoccupied with obtaining and using the drug and may become socially isolated from friends and family. If you think you or a loved one is struggling with Xanax addiction, it’s important to seek help.
If someone has been taking prescribed Xanax and taking it for an extended period of time and decides to stop, they may experience uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. The signs and symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can vary from person to person and depend on the amount of dosage and length of time taken.
Common withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, depression, irritability, sweating, shaking, and nausea. Other more severe symptoms can include seizures, hallucinations, and psychosis.
The first step in avoiding Xanax withdrawal is to consult with a doctor before stopping the medication. If someone has been taking the drug for an extended period of time, it is important to slowly taper off the dosage rather than abruptly stop. This will help minimize the withdrawal symptoms and make them more manageable.
It is important to not attempt the detox process on your own. Xanax withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening. Seeking out professional help to overcome your drug abuse will be your best option for safely and successfully recovering from a Xanax addiction.
As one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety and panic disorders, it is easy for individuals to become dependent on Xanax. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for individuals struggling with an addiction to Xanax.
The first step in the Xanax addiction treatment process is to recognize that a problem exists. If you or a loved one is exhibiting signs of addiction, such as difficulty sleeping, changes in mood, or an increase in tolerance, it is important to seek professional help.
Speaking with your healthcare provider or an addiction specialist can help you better understand your condition and create an effective treatment plan. Once a diagnosis has been made, your doctor can recommend a variety of treatment options.
The goal of treatment is to help you safely detox from the drug, manage withdrawal symptoms, and maintain sobriety. This process begins with tapering off the drug under medical supervision. This helps to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure that you remain safe and comfortable during the medical detox process.
After detox, it is important to continue treatment to address any underlying issues that may have contributed to the addiction. This could include individual or group counseling, family therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, or 12-step programs.
These therapies can help you to identify and address triggers, teach you how to manage stress and emotions, and develop better coping skills. In addition to therapy, medication may also be prescribed to help with cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
For those who require more intensive and long-term treatment, receiving these services through inpatient treatment centers may be best. Of course, more flexible care can also be found through an outpatient treatment center.
Finally, aftercare is an essential part of recovery. Aftercare services can help to ensure that you remain on the path to sobriety and are provided support during times of stress or difficulty. This could include support groups, continuing therapy, or relapse prevention strategies.
Xanax addiction is a serious condition and can have long-term consequences. Fortunately, with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible.
If you or a loved one is addicted to Xanax or any other substances, you can find help to stop your drug use here! The Rehabs Of Armerica hotline is available 24/7 to connect you to recovery resources and treatment programs nationwide.
Our extensive network of treatment facilities offers both holistic and clinical approaches to treatment, allowing you to receive a whole-health recovery.
Give yourself the chance you deserve to overcome Xanax addiction or dependence and call our team today. We will help you take the first step on your path to recovery and get you started on your treatment journey today!
Yes, it is possible to overdose on Xanax, either by taking too much of the drug at once or by combining it with other drugs. Signs of a Xanax overdose include extreme drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, shallow breathing, and loss of consciousness.
If you or someone you know has taken too much Xanax, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately, as this can be a life-threatening condition.
While Xanax is not intended for use as a daily drug, some individuals may find that taking it daily is the best way to manage their symptoms.
Taking Xanax every day for an extended period of time can also lead to tolerance, meaning that a person needs to take higher doses in order to achieve the same effects.
Additionally, Xanax can be habit-forming, and individuals may find themselves relying on it to cope with their anxiety. If you’re considering taking Xanax as a daily drug, it’s important to talk to your doctor first.
Your doctor can help you decide if taking Xanax daily is the right choice for you and can monitor how you react to being on this medication for an extended period of time.
Klonopin, Xanax, and other higher potency benzodiazepines are considered to pose the highest risk of developing a physical dependency. With that being said, prescription drugs of any kind can become habit-forming when misused.
No, you should not drink while using Xanax, or any other medications that may negatively interact with alcohol. Taking Xanax and drinking alcohol together can have serious health consequences.
When taken in combination with alcohol, the two substances interact to increase their sedative effects. This can cause an individual to become overly relaxed, experience slowed reflexes and delayed reaction times, and even pass out.
Alcohol also increases the amount of Xanax in the body, which can lead to an overdose. In extreme cases, an overdose can cause serious respiratory depression, coma, or even death. Because of the risks associated with combining these substances, it is best to avoid drinking while taking Xanax.
Anna M. joined Find Addiction Rehabs with extensive experience in the field of addiction treatment. As a former Nurse Practitioner in Miami, she found her passion for addiction treatment when a family member was lost to his disease. With each article and resource, she hopes to save other families from experiencing the anguish of a loved one’s passing due to drinking or drugs.
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