About Xanax Addiction
Xanax, or alprazolam, is a central nervous system depressant that is prescribed to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. It is the most prescribed psychiatric drug in the U.S. today, and is intended to be taken for a short time, perhaps two to four weeks, and after that, on an as-needed basis, such as for a panic attack.
A benzodiazepine (a class of tranquilizers), Xanax works in the brain to slow brain activity, calming active nerves and making the user feel relaxed. When taken by someone who is not diagnosed with clinical anxiety or a panic disorder, the drug causes a high, or euphoria, and puts the user into a state of deep relaxation.
Xanax can become addictive very quickly and overdosing on Xanax can cause coma or death. Using Xanax with other nervous system depressants, including opioids and alcohol, is also potentially life-threatening.
Whether used correctly or abused, Xanax has side effects, which may go away as the body adjusts to the drug. Side effects may include:
- Drowsiness
- Irritability
- Lack of coordination
- Reduced concentration
- Light-headedness
- Slurred speech
- Low blood pressure
- Slower breathing.
When taken long-term or in high doses, the body needs increasingly more Xanax to achieve the same desired effect. This tolerance leads to dependence and then to addiction, but trying to stop brings on severe and potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
A Few Signs of Xanax Use Disorder
- Cravings for the drug
- Depression after euphoria
- Aggressive or impulsive behavior
- Inability to cope without the drug
- Sexual problems
- Weight loss or gain
- Tiredness, acting sedated and longer reaction time
- Hallucinations and psychotic episodes
- Gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting and/or constipation
- Using the drug even in dangerous situations, such as when driving
- Problems functioning at work or school, or in social situations
- Inability to quit even when withdrawal symptoms appear between doses
XANAX DETOX TREATMENT CENTER
When you’re ready to take the first step in dealing with Xanax misuse and begin addiction treatment, is there a right way to go?
Quitting cold turkey or at home is not the best option; dangerous withdrawal symptoms may require urgent medical attention. But don’t lose hope — with the right detox treatment, Xanax addiction recovery is possible. The professionals at Buena Vista are committed to helping you or your loved one take this first step on the road to Xanax recovery.
Recovery always begins with detoxification; it’s vital to get the drug out of the body completely, no matter how uncomfortable the process may be. The professionals at our Xanax rehab center know that detox is not a predictable process. It is generally true that the longer and more frequently Xanax is used or the higher the dose, the more severe the withdrawal symptoms; however, a lot depends on the individual’s genetic makeup, overall health and other factors.
Our aim for Xanax addiction treatment is to help each patient ride out detox safely and as comfortably as possible. The board-certified physicians and highly qualified nurses at our Xanax detox center offer an individualized, medically supervised detox program for every patient.
The dosage is tapered, and withdrawal symptoms are dealt with as they arise. Medication may be prescribed during Xanax abuse treatment to reduce cravings and/or alleviate withdrawal symptoms as needed. Withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Shakiness, tremors and seizures
- Depression
- Agitation
- Recurrence of anxiety and panic attacks
- Sleep problems
- Headaches
- Aches and pains in muscles and joints
- Increased heart and respiration rates
- Elevated blood pressure
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Twitching in arm or leg muscles
What comes after detoxification? While the first step is the most important one, continuing his or her journey to long-term sobriety is vital for the patient.
After the body is free of Xanax, rehabilitation continues with behavioral therapy and intensive counseling. Buena Vista offers effective therapy programs that help patients understand their addiction, so they can prevent relapsing and take back their lives.
Ready to regain control of your life? Take the first step on your journey to Xanax addiction recovery today.
