The prescription drug benzodiazepine – commonly known as Xanax – is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that can be used as a short-term solution to calm and relax patients suffering from anxiety and/or panic attacks. Some people who use Xanax as prescribed can develop dependence when using the drug long-term. Xanax addiction often happens unintentionally.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name of a psychotropic drug called alprazolam. As prescribed, it can treat the following disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Panic disorders
- Stress
- Agoraphobia
Xanax also has off-label success in treating:
- Insomnia
- Social anxiety
- PMS
- Depression
- Muscle tension
Xanax works by binding to chemical receptors in the brain called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), causing a sedative effect. Users tend to feel calm and more relaxed but can also feel tired, sleepy, or dizzy. Xanax does not cure generalized anxiety disorders or insomnia but does treat symptoms related to those challenges.
Can I Be Addicted to Xanax Even if A Doctor Prescribes It?
Xanax is a safe and effective drug – but it can become addictive and dangerous when misused – or sometimes even when used as prescribed.
Because Xanax is a central nervous system depressant, the potential for misuse is high, especially when there are co-occurring mental health disorders, interactions with certain medications or illicit drugs, or underlying health issues.
As with any medication, you should disclose any health conditions and substance use with your doctor to make sure Xanax is right for you. You should be aware that mixing Xanax with other drugs or alcohol can amplify its sedative effect and cause respiratory distress, blackouts, and fatal overdose. Xanax users are told to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery because it can impair reaction time, decision-making skills, and coordination.
What Are Common Signs of Xanax Addiction?
Xanax addiction can look like any other drug addiction. When a user relies on Xanax over an extended period, dependence can turn into addiction.
Common signs of Xanax addiction include:
- Lack of inhibition/reckless behavior
- Poor coordination
- Slurred speech
- Tremors
- Confusion
- Memory problems
- Inability to focus
- Slurred speech
- Nausea
- Seizures
- Hostility
- Disturbing dreams
If you or someone you know is exhibiting signs of Xanax addiction, please seek professional help from a licensed behavioral health facility. Xanax withdrawal can be deadly without medical intervention and inpatient detox.
What Happens When I Stop Taking Xanax?
Xanax impacts the brain’s reward center. The same sedative effects that make Xanax the right drug for anxiety are the same effects that make it hard to quit. If you suddenly stop taking Xanax, your anxiety symptoms may worsen, and you may experience withdrawal symptoms like delirium, psychosis, rebound anxiety, paranoia, delusion, hallucinations, and feel like your skin is burning. These symptoms are often too intense to bear alone. You should be monitored closely by medical professionals when withdrawing from Xanax.
How Can Xanax Addiction Treatment Help?
Sudden Xanax withdrawal can be deadly. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you find a licensed medical facility where you can detox safely and comfortably. Several factors will impact the length of your recovery and the methodologies that doctors and therapists will deploy in your recovery. Here are a few options:
- Medically managed detox: Medications can be used to decrease discomfort.
- Inpatient programs: A medical facility that offers 24/7 care.
- Outpatient programs: Similar treatment to inpatient programs without the need to stay overnight at the facility.
Regardless of the type of program you choose, you will receive professional medical interventions, group and individual therapies, and educational, cognitive, and behavioral health support to help you build a healthy relapse prevention plan and deploy coping skills when temptations arise.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has a treatment services locator that can help you find treatment centers nearby.
How Can Buena Vista Recovery Help with Xanax Addiction?
Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for anxiety in the United States and is often abused recreationally. As such, Buena Vista Recovery has deep expertise in Xanax detox and recovery protocols. Addiction recovery is within reach. Explore what is possible at Buena Vista.
At Buena Vista Recovery, we value your commitment to yourself and work hard to be your ideal recovery partner. We work directly with patients to create individualized treatment plans for the best patient outcomes.
Buena Vista Recovery has several convenient locations that offer a safe, clean, comfortable, and welcoming atmosphere to promote healing and growth. Contact Buena Vista Recovery at 480-999-0851 or visit any of our Arizona drug and alcohol treatment centers to start your recovery journey today.
3033 South Arizona Avenue
Chandler, Arizona 85248
5151 East Pima Road
Tucson, Arizona 85712
SCOTTSDALE (IOP and Outpatient ONLY)
8171 E Indian Bend Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85250
