Xanax is a prescription medication for treating anxiety. Xanax addiction and withdrawal can lead to serious side effects. For example, seizures, depression, and suicidal thoughts.
Withdrawal from Xanax can be extremely difficult. Xanax is a depressant that affects the central nervous system. Withdrawal symptoms include:
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Nightmares
- Anxiety
Xanax can be effective when taken correctly. Consequently, leading to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. There are various reasons why people abuse this drug. For example, people who are attempting to reduce stress or induce sleep.
Xanax addiction is a severe problem requiring medical attention, which should be taken seriously and done quickly.
What is Xanax
Xanax (alprazolam) is a type of benzodiazepine. This drug class typically produces a calming effect. Some of the side effects include:
- Tiredness or weakness
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Problems with coordination and balance.
Xanax is a sedative treating anxiety and panic disorders and is more potent than other benzodiazepines type drugs. As such, Xanax is used in anxiety and panic disorders cases and can have adverse effects on users.
Xanax helps treat generalized anxiety disorder and social anxiety disorder. However, it is best avoided in other situations due to addiction risk.
Experiencing Withdrawals
When stopping Xanax abruptly, withdrawal symptoms are likely to be experienced. Comparable are symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Some of the withdrawal symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include:
- Sleep disturbances
- Restlessness
- Disturbing dreams
- Sleep deprivation
Further, withdrawal from Xanax can be both physical and psychological. Physical withdrawal symptoms include:
- Nausea
- Muscle pain
- Body aches
- Shakiness
- Abdominal Pain
Psychological withdrawal symptoms include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Severe mood swings
- Panic attacks
Additionally, with prolonged chronic use, withdrawal issues become gravely serious.
Xanax withdrawal is different for every person. For example, some people experience more intense symptoms, while others experience mild symptoms of varying duration.
Some of the severe withdrawal symptoms include:
- Hallucinations
- Sadness and depression
- Loss of interests
- Thoughts of suicide
Signs You Are Addicted to Xanax and Need Treatment Now
- Taking more than the prescribed dose
- Using more than one type of medication at a time
- Strong cravings; feeling as if you need to take Xanax to function
- Planning on quitting Xanax but finding yourself unable to do so
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not taking Xanax
Breaking addiction
To summarize, common ways people become addicted to Xanax is with prescriptions. However, many people take the drug for long periods and at higher doses than prescribed.
Unquestionably, this can lead to addiction, and with long-term exposure, overdose is a possible outcome. However, The National Institute on Drug Abuse states people can recover from addiction, as well as overdose.
Comparatively, the withdrawal process varies from uncomfortable to medical emergencies. Certainly, withdrawal symptoms are challenging to overcome. There are ways to make the process manageable. For example, establish a reliable withdrawal support system. For instance, people and things that provide stability, and comfort.
In short, if you are addicted to Xanax, take steps to break your addiction. Xanax addiction and withdrawal are as serious as any other drug addiction.
To conclude, withdrawal symptoms range from mild to severe, but help is available. Above all, withdrawing from Xanax addiction is difficult and should be done carefully.
Addiction help is available.
Are you ready to work through your addiction and accept the support you need? Take the first steps towards recovery, contact the Harm Reduction Center. Our team of experienced professionals understands that the recovery process is a big undertaking. Our private healthcare facility offers the resources you need to begin your journey. Contact us today.
