If you think you have become addicted to Xanax, do not attempt Xanax withdrawal on your own. It is important that you seek the advice of a medical professional. Call our 24 Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline 888-446-5952 to find out how we can help you with a safe and effective Xanax detox and recovery program.
Xanax (Alprazolam) is the most frequently prescribed psychiatric drug. So it is not surprising alprazolam is also one of the top three medications that is diverted for nontherapeutic use. In 2011 alone, the nonmedical or illicit use of Alprazolam was responsible for 123,744 emergency room visits, a rise of 166% since 2004. Both patients, who are prescribed Xanax for medical purposes and those who abuse the drug for nonmedical purposes, can be at risk for Xanax addiction and dependence.
What is Xanax (Alprazolam)?
Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which are sometimes referred to as tranquilizers, sedatives and depressants. Xanax is frequently prescribed on an as needed basis for the immediate relief of anxiety symptoms for acute anxiety or panic attacks. In addition, the tranquilizer is sometimes used on a long term basis to treat panic disorder, anxiety disorder, sleep disorder and bipolar disorder.
Xanax or alprazolam is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that acts by slowing down the brain’s activity. Its effects create a sense of calmness and relaxation, as well as drowsiness that is beneficial to patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia.
Xanax can be very effective in treating anxiety and other related disorders when used as prescribed under a doctor’s care. However, people sometimes abuse Xanax for its euphoria effects, particularly because of its rapid onset.
Xanax is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means it has a lower potential for abuse than drugs classified under Schedules I through III. However, users need to be cautioned because this medication can still be habit forming, along with some associated adverse effects.
Adverse Effects and Potential Dangers of Xanax
Patients can build a tolerance to Xanax if used for long periods of time, requiring increasingly higher doses to get any effect. There is a high risk of dependence when patients take more than 4 mg per day for 12 months or more, but for some a risk occurs even after short term use in commonly prescribed doses of 0.75 to 4.0 mg per day. Although infrequent, taking too much Xanax can result in an overdose.
Symptoms of Xanax Overdose
| Severe drowsiness | Slowed breathing |
| Reduced reflexes | Loss of consciousness |
What Are the Symptoms and Signs of Xanax Addiction?
Xanax addiction like other drug addictions is a complex, and chronic brain disease. It is indicated by uncontrollable and compulsive drug craving and seeking behaviors despite the harmful and sometimes devastating consequences.
Users who are dependent or addicted to Xanax should not abruptly quit taking the drug; instead they should be tapered off gradually. Otherwise, withdrawal reactions may occur including headache, dizziness, jitteriness or tremors, sweating chills and irritability or agitation. In addition, the user may once again experience anxiety symptoms. It has been reported in severe cases that Xanax withdrawal can result in seizures.
Xanax Detox and Addiction Treatment
Recognizing that you may have a problem with Xanax addiction is the first step of the recovery process. It is important to seek and get the professional help you need so you can you start a new beginning free of Xanax.
At Holy Land Rehab our compassionate and experienced counselors will evaluate the degree of your Xanax addiction and recommend a Xanax detox and rehabilitation program to meet your specific needs. We will also provide you with relapse prevention services to help you stay Xanax free over the long term. Get started today by calling our 24 Hour Toll-Free Addiction Helpline 888-446-5952 and speak with a caring counselor in confidence.
