Xanax abuse is a growing concern due to its potential for addiction. Misuse can lead to dependence or withdrawal. Learn about its effects and treatment options.
Xanax Abuse
Xanax belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. Benzodiazepines are controlled substances that have a risk of abuse and are regulated. It is a prescription medicine and is highly addictive.
Prolonged and excessive use of this substance can cause Xanax addiction or even death. That is why it is essential to take this medication with caution and under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Connect with a licensed medical professional at Therapy Fleet and get an Xanax prescription online tailored to your treatment needs.
Get Started Now From just $40/week
What Is Xanax?
Alprazolam is the generic name of Xanax. Xanax (alprazolam) is used to treat:
It can be prescribed for the short term and is highly effective. Prolonged use can cause addiction and dependence.
How Does It Work?
Xanax (alprazolam) works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down nerve activity in the brain. This reduces excitement and anxiety, making you feel relaxed and calm.
Xanax starts working within 30 to 60 minutes and may cause sedation and relaxation.
Forms and Strengths of Xanax
It is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance like Ativan due to its risk for abuse.
It comes in different shapes and is available in strengths of:
- 0.25mg
- 0.5mg
- 1mg,
- 2mg
All Xanax pills, including blue Xanax bars, are the most popular and life-changing drug for people who struggle with anxiety disorders.
Xanax stays in your system for 12 to 15 hours.
Xanax Abuse
Xanax abuse is the misuse of Xanax or taking the drug in an amount greater than the prescribed amount or without a prescription. It can lead to a risk of addiction, withdrawal symptoms, or dependence. Store this medication safely to avoid unauthorized access. It is prescription medicine; thus, do not share it with anyone those are prone to addiction. Sharing or distributing the medication is illegal.
Xanax overdose can be fatal if taken in excessive amounts or combined with alcohol or other CNS drugs.
Get Started Now From just $40/week
7 Common Ways of Xanax Abuse
It may be abused in many ways, such as:
- Using medication without a prescription
- Using medication other than the prescribed one
- Snorting pills
- Crushing pills
- Injecting pills
- Using the drug with alcohol
- Using the drug with other medications
The Rising Xanax Abuse in the United States
Xanax is used to treat Generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Alprazolam is the number one prescribed substance in the US. Some people use it excessively, resulting in a serious health risk.
The ratio of benzodiazepine use is increasing day by day among middle-aged individuals in the U.S. From 1996 to 2013, there has been a 50% increase in its use.
Statistics on Xanax Misuse
- In the US, about 30.6 million adults reported using benzodiazepines in the past year, of which 5.3 million misuse them.
- Studies show that 18 million people have misused prescription drugs aged 12 and older. They took the medication once in their life without a prescription for no reason.
- Approximately 10.4% of individuals take the benzodiazepines as prescribed. 2.2% misuse them, which makes the total prevalence 17.2% use.
Xanax Dependence
There are short-term and long-term effects of Xanax abuse on the body. People who use Xanax for a long time have a high chance of addiction.
Individuals who have a history of alcohol use are prone to addiction to this medication. After using Xanax, some people become addicted to feeling good and relaxed, and it may lead to dependence.
People struggle with their daily tasks and responsibilities because of addiction. Sometimes, your doctor can slowly reduce the dose to minimize the withdrawal effects. Your healthcare provider should monitor the symptoms of addiction.
Get Started Now From just $40/week
Xanax Withdrawal Effects
People who are using Xanax for a prolonged time often have difficulty stopping Xanax
If you suddenly stop taking Xanax, withdrawal symptoms may appear. Symptoms can be mild to severe, like
- Trouble sleeping
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Sadness
Xanax Overdose
Xanax addiction is the most dangerous due to its severe psychological and physical dependence, which can be life-threatening. An Xanax overdose is when you take too much medication, either deliberately or unintentionally. An overdose of Xanax includes symptoms like:
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Slurred speech
- Weak muscles
- Shallow breathing
How to Treat Xanax Addiction?
It is difficult to overcome Xanax addiction. With the help of a simple and effective approach, you can take charge of your life.
Pathways to Recovery From Xanax Abuse
Step 1: Detox
- The most important step is to detox by slowly stopping Xanax
- support, and medical help with other medications will help to detox more easily and safely.
Step 2: Get an Ongoing Recovery Program
- A healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on your life.
- Regular exercise can help to improve your mood and enhance cognitive functioning.
- Mindful practices like meditation or deep breathing can help to reduce stress, improve emotional regulation, and help to reduce Xanax withdrawal symptoms.
Step 3: Get a Personalized Treatment Plan at Therapy Fleet
- At Therapy Fleet, you will be surrounded by a professional medical team. Under the supervision of a compassionate team, an online treatment plan can be tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
Xanax (alprazolam) is the most popular and powerful drug to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Misuse of Xanax can lead to serious health risks, addiction, and dependence. It’s becoming common these days for people to misuse prescription medications. Xanax is prescribed for a short period. Long-term use can change the brain chemistry, and it is difficult to stop the drug. Long-term use of Xanax may sometimes be fatal.
Visit Therapy Fleet today to take the first step toward a healthy and detoxified lifestyle.
Recovery isn’t about having the strength to stop. It’s about the courage to start again each time you stumble.
FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions our therapists mostly receive regarding Xanax use, misuse, and side effects
1. What is Xanax abuse?
- Xanax is being misused because of its short half-life. It has a quick effect, leads to craving for the drug, and causes a person to become addicted.
- a misuse of the drug, taking a higher dose than the prescribed dose of medicine
- Taking Xanax with alcohol or other substances
2. Is xanax addictive?
Xanax is very addictive. You are psychologically and physically dependent on this drug. It is important to know that even if the doctor has prescribed the medicine, you may still become addicted physically by taking benzodiazepines, like Xanax, valium, Serax, and Restoril.
3. Why do people take Xanax?
Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorder and Panic disorder with or without fear, which may cause feelings of helplessness, panic, or phobias. When Xanax is prescribed, make sure you obtain it from an authentic and trustworthy pharmacy.
4. Can Xanax make you hard?
No. Xanax belongs to the drug class Benzodiazepines, which are considered CNS depressants (as downers). It may cause sexual side effects. There are limited studies on sexual side effects with Xanax.
Medical Disclaimer:
At Therapy Fleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.
Get Started Now From just $40/week
Additional Sources
- How to Get Xanax Prescribed to You Online Easily
- Anxiety Online Therapy
- GAD Online Therapy
- Find Calm in the Storm: Panic Attack Online Therapy
- Understanding Anxiety Symptoms, Types and Coping Strategies
- Ativan vs Xanax – Similarities & Differences
- Blue Xanax Bar: Types of Alprazolam Pills
- How Long Does Xanax Stay in Your System?
- Is It Safe to Combine Medication for ADHD and Alcohol
- How Xanax for Sleep Works? A Quick Medical Guide
Sources
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2016/018276s052lbl.pdf
- https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6358464/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6358464/
- https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/misuse-prescription-drugs/what-scope-prescription-drug-misuse
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6358464/
