Medications like Xanax, a benzodiazepine, are prescribed by doctors for people who are suffering from anxiety disorders, panic disorders, anxiety caused by depression, and sometimes sleep disorders. Benzodiazepines are fast-acting, so it isn’t necessary to allow them to build up in the user’s system for them to work. They almost immediately provide relief from anxiety, unlike antidepressants that can take weeks to reach their full therapeutic effect.
When Xanax is taken for a short period of time, as prescribed, it is an effective solution for the symptoms of anxiety. However, because it is one of the most commonly prescribed medications, and it provides immediate relief, it’s an easy target for abuse and addiction.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam. The anti-anxiety medication works by reducing abnormal excitement in the brain. It acts on the central nervous system and produces a calming effect, reducing anxiety and nervous tension.
Xanax is highly addictive, and users can become dependent on it even when it’s taken as prescribed. When it is abused, addiction is even more likely.
Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
The signs and symptoms of Xanax abuse and addiction vary depending on each individual’s genetic makeup, how long the individual has been using the drug, how much was being used, and the level of dependence. However, there are some common signs that are often present in individuals who are abusing or addicted to Xanax. These symptoms include:
- Increased anxiety
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Irritability or anger
- Agitation
- Drowsiness
- Trouble speaking or slurred speech
- Withdrawing from activities that used to be enjoyable
- Isolating
- Inability to focus or confusion
- Respiratory issues
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Blurred vision
- Shaking or tremors
- Swollen extremities
- Memory loss
- Financial and legal problems
- Relationship problems
- Trouble at work or school
- Withdrawal when Xanax is stopped or reduced
Effects of Xanax Addiction
When someone uses Xanax over a long period of time, there are some effects that may begin to develop. It’s a drug that is best utilized only for short periods of time, so the effects that long-term use causes really leave virtually no part of an addict’s life unscathed. The common effects of Xanax abuse or addiction include:
- Short-term memory loss
- Isolation from friends and family
- Damaged or severed interpersonal relationships
- Lack of muscle coordination
- Hyperactivity
- Shaking or tremors
- Decreased libido
- Vision problems
- Respiratory infections
- Sedation
- Coma
- Death
- Chest pain
- Loss of job
- Legal problems and incarceration
- Financial ruin
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax
When the body and the brain become accustomed to functioning with Xanax in their systems, there will be withdrawal symptoms that occur if the Xanax is stopped or significantly reduced. Withdrawal symptoms for benzodiazepines can vary widely based upon the individual and how her or she used the drug. Some symptoms are fairly mild, however, there are some that are quite serious and should be monitored by medical professionals.
The withdrawal symptoms of Xanax include:
- Anxiety and panic attacks
- Difficulty focusing
- Tension and irritability
- Headache
- Memory loss
- Heart palpitations
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Problems sleeping
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle stiffness
- Hypertension
- Irregular heart rate
- Seizure
Getting Help for Xanax Addiction
Even though taking a medication that is prescribed by a doctor seems like it should be safe, some medications have a very high potential for abuse and addiction. Xanax and other benzodiazepines fall not that category. If you have been prescribed Xanax and are struggling to stop using it, or you believe that you are addicted, there is help available to help you.
Detoxing from Xanax should be done with medical supervision, as it can be painful and may cause medical emergencies that need immediate attention. Following detox, you will likely need to attend an inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment program. At My Time Recovery, we are here for you and ready to help. We can help you determine where to get started with treatment and how you should proceed. Contact us to get started on your recovery today.
