Xanax Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the brand name for a drug called alprazolam. It is a benzodiazepine medication that can slow central nervous system (CNS) activity. It impacts the way the body produces a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which can reduce the symptoms of anxiety and panic. Over 46 million prescriptions are written for Xanax each year in the United States.

An estimated 17.2% of all benzodiazepine use in the U.S. is considered misuse, and Xanax is the most commonly misused benzodiazepine drug.

Doctors may prescribe Xanax to help people manage panic and anxiety disorders. People who take Xanax must follow their doctor’s instructions carefully. Xanax has the potential for abuse and addiction. People who develop benzodiazepine addiction often require intensive treatment to stop taking them. They may also need ongoing support to manage addiction to Xanax and reduce the risk of relapse. 

The Effects and Risks of Xanax

People may take prescription Xanax to reduce the symptoms of certain mental illnesses, including anxiety and panic disorder. Xanax can relieve the physical and emotional symptoms of these conditions by reducing CNS activity. 

Like all medications, Xanax has the potential for unwanted side effects. Common side effects of Xanax include:

• Nausea
• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness
• Dry mouth
• Slurred speech
• Headache
• Excessive sleeping
• Poor focus and concentration
• Euphoria

Some people may experience more serious side effects of Xanax, including:

• Hallucinations
• Jaundice
• Fast talking
• Racing thoughts
• Double vision
• Fainting
• Risk-taking behaviors

Unwanted or dangerous side effects are more common among people who abuse it by taking higher doses than prescribed. Taking high doses may also result in a life-threatening overdose. Signs of a Xanax overdose include:

• Respiratory depression (slow or shallow breathing)
• Seizures
• Agitation
• Loss of consciousness

An overdose is a medical emergency. If you or someone near you shows signs of an overdose, seek treatment immediately. Call 911 and wait with the person until help arrives. 

Xanax abuse, addiction, and overdose are involved in thousands of emergency room visits each year. It is critical to take Xanax exactly as prescribed and seek treatment if you recognize signs of addiction.

How Does Xanax Addiction Occur?

Xanax is often prescribed to treat symptoms of anxiety and panic. This medication can cause side effects that some people find desirable. People may feel relaxed or euphoric when using it, which may cause them to abuse it. 

People may abuse Xanax by:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Taking doses more often than prescribed
• Using Xanax for longer than prescribed
• Ingesting Xanax differently than prescribed, such as crushing tablets and snorting them
• Taking Xanax recreationally (without a prescription)

Long periods of Xanax abuse can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Heavy or ongoing Xanax use can change how the body and brain function. People may experience Xanax withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it. 

Recovering from Xanax addiction can be challenging, but there are treatment programs to help people stop taking it safely. Learn more about substance use disorder (SUD) treatment by contacting THC Recovery specialists today. 

Recognizing the Signs of Xanax Addiction

Anyone who misuses Xanax may develop an addiction to it. It is crucial to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of addiction. 

Xanax addiction can change the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. Signs of Xanax addiction include:

• Running out of prescription Xanax early
• Having multiple prescriptions for Xanax from more than one doctor
• Taking Xanax without a prescription for it
• Taking Xanax differently than prescribed
• Exhibiting symptoms of withdrawal if they stop taking it
• Having cravings for Xanax
• Neglecting responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Isolating more often
• Taking risks while using Xanax, such as driving while intoxicated
• Being dishonest or sneaky about substance use
• Having financial, legal, or social trouble related to their substance use
• Needing to use more Xanax to get the effects they want
• Wanting to stop using Xanax but feeling like they can’t stop on their own

People who develop Xanax dependence will typically continue to use it, even when it causes significant harm. People need intensive treatment plans to address the roots of Xanax addiction and learn coping strategies to prevent a relapse in the future. 

What to Expect in Treatment for Xanax Addiction

Xanax addiction treatment includes a combination of evidence-based and holistic therapies. These therapies can help to address the physical, psychological, and behavioral aspects of Xanax addiction. 

A Xanax addiction treatment plan might include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Medical detox programs
• Medications to manage withdrawal symptoms
• Mental health treatment, including behavioral therapies and counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Support groups
• Family therapy
• Holistic therapies like exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, acupuncture, and creative expression
• Aftercare planning

It can be challenging to overcome benzodiazepine addiction, but having support and treatment makes it possible. Contact THC Recovery specialists to learn about our addiction treatment and recovery support programs. You may also reach out if you have questions or want to schedule an intake appointment. 

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Benzodiazepine Use and Misuse Among Adults in the United States
2. NIH: A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal
3. MDPI: Benzodiazepines: Uses, Dangers, and Clinical Considerations
4. Science Direct: Severity of alprazolam dependence and associated features among long-term alprazolam users from psychiatric outpatient clinics in Taiwan
5. American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP): Risks Associated with Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use