Xanax is a drug that many people are familiar with. It is a benzodiazepine, which means that it has a sedative effect. It is prescribed to humans that have anxiety disorders and can be beneficial as a calming aid when taken as prescribed. Many people take Xanax the way that it was intended, however, that does not mean that a person will not develop a dependence. Xanax addiction can happen so quickly and often not even on purpose.
This blog will discuss what Xanax is, how it treats anxiety, and addiction to Xanax. Then it will explain how Buena Vista Recovery can be of assistance with Xanax addiction.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name of a drug called alprazolam. Many people take this medication as prescribed and it can treat the following disorders:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Panic disorders
- Stress
Even though Xanax has been utilized as prescribed, it can also be obtained illegally. Xanax addiction is a very real thing, even if your doctor recommended this drug. As mentioned above, Xanax is a benzodiazepine that relaxes the body and relaxes muscles in the body.
What Happens to the Brain When I Stop Taking Xanax?
Most drugs affect the brain’s “pleasure center”, also known as the reward center. This area of the brain releases a flood of dopamine that encourages the brain to crave more of the substance. For example, you completed a project for school and reward yourself with ice cream. The brain finds this taste pleasurable and whenever you finish a stressful chore, you remember how ice cream made you feel.
When Xanax addiction is present, unhealthy behaviors continue to surface and the person continues to associate all events in their lives with the drug. Therefore, quitting may seem impossible without professional therapy and medical detoxification.
Can I Be Addicted to Xanax Even if It Is Prescribed by a Doctor?
When taken as directed by a physician, Xanax is a safe and effective drug. However, they can be addictive and dangerous when misused. Because Xanax is a central nervous system depressant, they have the potential to be abused. As with any medication, Xanax addiction depends on you and how you take the medication, honesty between you and your doctor, and reading the warning labels.
What Are Common Signs of Xanax Addiction?
When Xanax is abused, it can cause a variety of odd behaviors. Some of those behaviors are:
- Memory problems – Xanax addiction causes lapses of time to be missing from a person’s life. Often, they will lose up to several weeks due to experiencing blackouts or have no recollection of engaging in events.
- Stealing – Many people will impulsively steal when high on Xanax.
- Slurred speech
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Seizures
- Swelling in hands and feet
If you or someone you know are exhibiting any signs of Xanax addiction, Buena Vista Recovery is just a phone call away. Due to Xanax being as powerful as it is, Buena Vista Recovery highly recommends that you seek professional medical help as withdrawal can be deadly without medical detox.
How Can Xanax Addiction Treatment Help?
As mentioned previously, Xanax addiction can be deadly, therefore you must seek a licensed medical facility that can be assisted when detoxing from Xanax. While there is no specific cure for Xanax addiction, there are several ways to treat it. There is not a specific length of time for treatment, as each individual is different and so is their recovery. The following are several options to treat Xanax addiction:
Medically managed detox – As previously mentioned, Xanax can be deadly when experiencing withdrawal symptoms. Therefore, you or someone you know should never abruptly stop or reduce the amount of Xanax without seeking medical professional help. With a detox, medications may be utilized to decrease the uncomfortable side effects of tapering off Xanax.
In-patient programs – This is where you are in a facility that offers 24/7 care for your needs in treatment. You will be in groups and educational meetings that will help you to expand your knowledge, build a healthy relapse prevention plan, and explore coping skills when temptations occur.
Outpatient programs – The treatment is similar to in-patient however you can return home daily.
When you or a loved one is ready for change, speaking with a doctor to figure out the next steps is important for your recovery. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides a treatment services locator, which can help a person find treatment centers nearby.
How Can Buena Vista Recovery Help With Xanax Addiction?
Admitting to yourself or others that you are struggling with Xanax addiction is a brave space that you are in. This is no easy task, and you or someone you know has already completed the hardest part: acknowledgment.
At Buena Vista Recovery, we value your commitment to yourself and are proud of you for getting this far. We offer detox treatment, inpatient, and outpatient treatment. Buena Vista Recovery is in an atmosphere of serenity and majestic landscape to promote healing and growth in your recovery.
Our treatment centers are filled with staff who understand what you or someone you love is going through. We create an atmosphere where you will be handled with care throughout your treatment. What are you waiting for? The time is now to start your recovery!
Xanax addiction affects many people. While it can be beneficial to some, it is easy to develop an addiction. Obtaining all the information on Xanax addiction is the first part of the journey. By understanding that you are not alone and reaching out to Buena Vista Recovery, you will be surrounded by like-minded individuals every step of the way. You or someone you know is worthy of having a productive and healthy life. We at Buena Vista Recovery want to make sure that is your experience with us. Give us a call today at (480) 741-9414. We will answer any questions that you have and make sure you do not leave without confidence.
