Xanax belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is most often used to manage anxiety and panic attacks.
It works by slowing down the brain, therefore producing a sense of calmness. Effects usually set in within twenty minutes and provide relief for up to a few hours. Xanax has high potential for addiction because of the way it affects the brain. It binds to specific sites on the GABA receptors in the brain. After a prolonged period of usage, these receptors become less responsive to stimulation, requiring the individual to take higher doses to get the desired effect.
Some possible side effects of this medication are:
- Drowsiness
- Lightheadedness
- Slurred speech
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Nausea
Xanax should not be mixed with alcohol or other medications. If you have been prescribed this medication and you are experiencing difficulty talking, itching or swelling, trouble breathing, severe change in mood, or hallucinations, call your doctor immediately.
Individuals who are prescribed Xanax for anxiety disorders may quickly build up a tolerance to the drug and have to take more and more of it for it to produce the initial effects.
Here are some of the symptoms of addiction to Xanax:
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Rage
- Restlessness
- Forging prescriptions
- Doctor shopping
- Hostility and/or violence
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Change in appetite
- Taking more than what was prescribed
- Decreased urination
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Fluctuations in weight
- Heart palpitations
- Tremors
- Trouble concentrating
- Seizures
Mental and physical dependence can occur while taking this medication. If you notice any of the symptoms above, seek medical assistance before attempting to stop taking the drug on your own.
Common symptoms of withdrawal include:
- Depression
- Feeling nervous
- Anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Trouble sleeping
- Seizures
- Death resulting from seizures or suicide
Detoxing from this medication should be done under medical supervision. The safest way is to slowly reduce the amount of medication until completely weaned off. Abruptly ceasing intake of Xanax once addicted could cause life-threatening problems. As mentioned above. seizures are a withdrawal symptom, occurring if the dose of Xanax is reduced or if the person stops taking it completely without medical supervision.
If you think that you or a loved one may be addicted to Xanax, it is imperative to seek medical help. Contact us at (770) 202-2212. We offer inpatient residential treatment and intensive outpatient program services at our drug rehab near Roswell, Georgia.
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