Call https://ecosoberhouse.com/ today and discover more about the different types of addiction treatment available at Recovery First. In 2009, Xanax and other benzodiazepines were responsible for the majority of the emergency room admissions caused by central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Since Xanax is one of the most widely prescribed drugs in the U.S., it is most likely to be mixed with other prescription drugs such as opioid painkillers as well as recreational drugs including alcohol or cocaine. The first benzodiazepines were developed in the 1930s, but they were not introduced as prescription drugs to the public until 1957.
Medication
Understanding the common symptoms of withdrawal and the strategies for managing them is essential for a successful detox process. Taking alprazolam if you have depression may lead to an extremely elevated mood (mania) or can worsen your depression. You and your family and friends should be on the lookout for signs of worsening depression or risk of suicide. People who are aged 65 years or older can be at greater risk for some side effects of alprazolam.
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- Recognizing the signs of Xanax addiction, such as mood swings, withdrawal from responsibilities, and physical symptoms like drowsiness or tremors, is the first step to helping someone with Xanax addiction.
- If you or anyone you know is undergoing a severe health crisis, call a doctor or 911 immediately.
- The resulting dependence on Xanax can lead to worsening insomnia or anxiety symptoms, which then leads to a strong physical and psychological Xanax addiction that can be difficult to break.
- Some medical professionals believe that this trend indicates that benzodiazepines are being abused in riskier ways.
While less common, the most serious side effects of alprazolam are described below, along with what to do if they happen. Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use alprazolam only for the indication prescribed. No medication has been shown to be effective for treating benzodiazepine use disorder.
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- In turn, someone might take Xanax more frequently than they’re supposed to — daily or even multiple times a day, and they might use it to deal with minor stress rather than intense anxiety.
- Since Xanax becomes less effective over time, continuing to abuse it may cause paradoxical symptoms like anxiety and panic.
Contact us and we can begin the process of building a life worth living. Xanax is more addictive than many other substance alternatives like Ambien or Ativan due to its rapid onset and short half-life but less addictive than substances like heroin or cocaine, which produce intense euphoria. Among benzodiazepines, Xanax is considered one of the most addictive due to its potent and fast-acting effects. Xanax is addictive due to its ability to alter brain chemistry by binding to GABA receptors, which enhances the calming effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This action reduces anxiety and induces a sense of relaxation, but over time, the brain becomes reliant on Xanax to maintain these effects, leading to tolerance and dependence.
- Learn more about the risks and side effects of substance use disorders, including the signs of intoxication and overdose.
- The first time I popped a Xanax was the first time I felt relief from my anxiety disorder… There was something oddly comforting about Xanax — the way it came in many shapes and colors, like peach and blue.
- A person who is experiencing Xanax withdrawal will have their thoughts completely consumed by the drug.
- You’ll also learn healthy coping strategies and relaxation techniques.
Xanax withdrawal typically lasts between 5 and 28 days, depending on the severity of the addiction and the dosage history. Mild cases resolve within a week, while severe cases with long-term use may experience symptoms for several weeks or even months. Xanax withdrawal occurs because the body becomes dependent on the drug to regulate neurotransmitter activity, particularly GABA, which controls anxiety and stress responses. Prolonged use suppresses the brain’s natural production of GABA, leaving it unable to function normally without the drug. When Xanax is reduced or stopped, the sudden lack of external Substance abuse support triggers hyperactivity in the central nervous system, leading to symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. Xanax works faster but also wears off quicker, which requires more frequent dosing.
Xanax side effects
- It involves safely managing the withdrawal symptoms from stopping the drug.
- In 2009, Xanax and other benzodiazepines were responsible for the majority of the emergency room admissions caused by central nervous system (CNS) depressants.
- Its quick action and efficacy in controlling symptoms led to widespread prescription use.
- This cognitive decline can significantly impact your personal and professional life, making it challenging to maintain employment, relationships, and overall quality of life.
- We have replaced it in our manuscript with “misuse liability” as it reflects a more updated terminology consistent with the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5).
- If you use Xanax during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, and may need medical treatment for several weeks.
Encourage professional treatment by showing them the benefits of recovery, sharing success stories, and xanax addiction offering to accompany them to therapy or detox appointments. Socially, it causes difficulties in maintaining relationships and work obligations. Xanax addiction leads to physical effects such as impaired coordination, chronic fatigue, and liver damage, alongside psychological effects like heightened anxiety, depression, and mood instability. AddictionResource aims to present the most accurate, trustworthy, and up-to-date medical content to our readers. Our team does their best for our readers to help them stay informed about vital healthcare decisions.
