Many individuals rely on medications to alleviate their pain or calm their nerves.
Various medications can be very useful for these purposes, and Xanax is one of them.
This drug is extremely effective for calming the consumer’s nerves.
Of course
Taking this drug does not come without potential repercussions.
If you take Xanax, there is always a chance that you’ll fall into a spiral of Xanax addiction.
Within this guide, you will learn all about addiction and how it could potentially overtake you.
Is Xanax Addictive?
First and foremost, it is vital to learn about the overall addictiveness of Xanax.
Is this a drug that will consume you instantly?
Or is this a drug that must be consumed for a lengthy period before you’ll become addicted to it?
Well
Xanax is one of the most abused drugs in the entire country.
This specific drug is very addictive because of its short half-life.
When consuming this drug, it is possible to reach your high much quicker.
After a few hours of consuming the medication, the consumer will return to normal but will crave another dose right away.
When long-time consumers stop using Xanax, their brains will cease to produce the natural chemicals required to make the individual feel good, encouraging them to find and abuse more Xanax.
Therefore
The drug is highly addictive, whether you use it for a short period or not.
Is Xanax an Opiate?
Many individuals may question whether or not Xanax is an opiate because of its addictiveness and its effects on one’s brain.
Well
Xanax is not an opiate, but a benzodiazepine capable of altering the brain’s neurotransmitters.
While Xanax has been known for counterbalancing these chemicals, which can effectively help decrease the symptoms linked to anxiety and panic disorders, the addiction rates are something to consider.
Everyone must take the time to do thorough research on this drug before consumption.
Alprazolam does cause many side effects.
Although
Some are mild; others may be intolerable for most users.
If your profession involves driving long distances, you should not take Xanax because it can affect your driving ability.
All medical professionals also advise it:
That you should avoid making any type of business transaction while under the influence of this drug.
Is Xanax A Narcotic?
While many individuals would expect Xanax to be a narcotic, because it is such a powerful drug, it genuinely is not.
This benzodiazepine has become one of the most sought out drugs in today’s market.
Not only because of its effectiveness in alleviating the signs and symptoms of panic disorders and anxiety but because of its effect on the brain.
Many drug seekers prefer Xanax to other drugs because it can give them an almost instant euphoria of calmness.
This favorable effect allows the user to challenge their stressors more productively.
From the hard-nosed businessman to the college student can benefit from this drug, it has become so popular amongst everyone.
Can You Overdose On Xanax?
Each and every day, someone overdoses, due to a prescription pill addiction.
Although
There are many pills out there that are abused regularly; there is no doubt that Xanax is one of the most common.
In 2006 alone
Over 450 Floridians were the victims of Xanax overdoses.
The figures are likely even higher today.
To make sure that you prevent yourself from overdosing, it is vital to follow your doctor’s orders.
Within this guide:
You will learn all there is to know about Xanax overdose and how to protect yourself!
Many people consume Xanax on a daily or weekly basis.
Some of these individuals do not have prescriptions for the drug, and they consume it, believing that they’re invulnerable.
This is a major misconception and can present further problems.
Although many refuse to acknowledge it, those that consume large doses of Xanax can very well overdose on the drug!
Also
Mixing this medication with alcohol and other drugs is very dangerous and should be avoided at all costs!
Your chances of overdosing on Xanax vary depending on several factors, including age, weight, tolerance, and other consumed medications.
Understanding The Xanax Half-Life
When attempting to figure out Xanax’s specific half-life, you should know exactly how this figure is constructed.
Scientists and researchers give a half-life drug based on the amount of time taken to remove half of the drug from the user’s blood.
These figures are only an approximation and can easily vary from one user to the next.
The average half-life for Xanax is right around 11 hours, but half of the drug can dissipate from the user’s blood anywhere from 6.3 to 26.9 hours.
This figure also plays a role in determining the overall addictiveness of Xanax.
Symptoms Of A Xanax Overdose
It is very common for those that overdose on Xanax to experience some symptoms.
Although
Everyone’s experience will be different; the most frequent signs and symptoms will be listed below for your consideration.
- Loss of balance and clumsiness
- Brain fog and confusion
- Sleepiness or drowsiness
- Difficulty breathing
It should be known that mixing Xanax with other medications and alcohol can dramatically increase your overdosing chances.
At the same time
These combinations can be fatal! Consuming Xanax and alcohol together can lead to respiratory depression.
This can result in the user going into a coma and is often deadly!
Overdosing on Xanax
It is crucial to never take it upon yourself to alter your dosage.
Not only can increase the dose increase the risk of an overdose but decreasing the dose too much can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Some signs of a potential overdose include:
- Increased drowsiness
- Reduced reflexes
- Shortness of breath
- Bradypnea (slowed respirations)
- Loss of consciousness
Individuals that suffer from drug addiction are at a higher risk of a drug overdose.
If you live with someone that suffers from Xanax addiction:
Be sure to arm yourself with this information, so you will know when to seek emergency care to prevent overdose.
Getting Help Immediately
Anyone who suffers from a Xanax overdose needs to get medical assistance immediately.
If you’re around someone who you believe has overdosed on this medication, you should make sure to contact the appropriate authorities right away.
Calling 911 is vital and could very well save the individual’s life!
In all likelihood
The drug abuser will be sent to the hospital, where their vital signs will be monitored closely to ensure that they do not go into a distressed state.
In some cases
The medical personnel will proceed to pump the individual’s stomach to remove the drugs.
It is also possible for the doctor to give the victim a dose of Flumazenil, capable of curbing the risks of a Benzodiazepine overdose.
Although this medication can be helpful:
It is not without dangers and side effects. Flumazenil has been linked to an increased risk of seizures.
The risks increase with those that have abused Benzodiazepines for an expanded period.
Xanax Interactions
If you are currently taking any prescription or non-prescription medication, you should make sure that you relay this information to your physician.
Xanax can alter the effectiveness of many different types of drugs.
Make sure
That you keep a medication list on your persons at all times, just in case you become ill while you are out and about.
This list will give every medical professional involved in your care somewhere to start when it comes to treating your condition with medications.
While some antifungals and antibiotics may reduce Xanax’s effectiveness, antianxiety medications may increase the side effects of Xanax.
You do not want to walk around like a stoned zombie while you are at work or going about your daily business, so it is important to avoid mixing these drugs.
Antihistamines such as Benadryl are also capable of increasing drowsiness, so avoid taking these medications when taking Xanax.
Signs of Xanax Abuse
If you believe that one of your loved ones or relatives could be suffering from Xanax addiction, it is vital to examine their actions and behaviors.
By analyzing their appearance and changing behaviors, you’ll be able to confirm or disprove their addiction.
After that
You’ll be able to take the necessary actions to get your loved one help immediately.
Below, you will find the frequent signs of Xanax abuse for your consideration.
- Noticeable weight loss
- Increased isolation
- Frequent anger and outbursts
- A constant untidy appearance
- A loss of interest in everything
- Lethargy and lack of motivation
If you notice that your loved one is exhibiting any of these signs, it is vital to speak with them openly and honestly!
By doing this
You will learn more about their potential Xanax abuse before helping them get the assistance necessary to rectify their problem!
Common Side Effects of Xanax Addiction
Xanax has earned its reputation for being a very effective drug, and it shows because it just happened to be the 12th most prescribed medication during 2010.
The reason individuals prefer Xanax over other benzodiazepine is that of its super-fast onset of action.
It begins to work almost immediately, which is essential for someone that suffers from panic disorders.
Since Xanax possesses hypnotic, amnestic, and sedative properties, it will cause the user to experience many different side effects.
This is one reason you should do thorough research on this medication before you begin taking it.
If you work in construction or manufacturing
You may find these side effects a little unbearable because they can decrease your productivity or prevent you from performing.
Before taking Xanax:
You should take the time to learn about the side effects of the medication.
Knowing these side effects, you will know precisely what you’re getting into before taking the medication.
Below
You will find a list of some of these.
- More frequent forgetfulness
- Memory loss
- Dry/watery oral cavity
- Decreased sexual stamina
- Increased irritability
- Profuse perspiring
- Hangover
- Insomnia
- Increased appetite with weight gain
- Unsteadiness on your feet
- Loss of coordination
- Unusual sleepiness
- Slurred speech
- Loss of appetite
- Difficulty speaking
- Trouble attempting to perform mundane tasks
- Irritability and loss of self-control
- The constant thought of Xanax
- Strong cravings for Xanax
These side effects can range from mild to severe, and not every user will experience them, but for that will find that they are a nuisance or intolerable.
When taking Xanax
You should be well aware of your condition.
Have you developed an addiction?
If you’re continually thinking about Xanax and have frequent urges to consume this medication, it is highly likely that you’re suffering from a Xanax addiction.
If you’ve hit this point
It is vital to make sure that you take action immediately!
Allowing your condition to prolong will only cause it to worsen.
Therefore
You should seek out help as soon as possible!
Missing a Dose
Xanax should be treated just like any other drug when it comes to a missed dose.
If you forget to take a dose of Xanax and remember when it is almost time for the next dose, you skip it altogether.
Never double up the dose, because this can increase your risk of overdose.
If an hour had elapsed from when the dose was due, you should go ahead and take the dosage.
Xanax Storage
If you have small children living within your home, you should keep all of your medications locked up or out of their reach.
Never store your Xanax bottle in the bathroom vanity, because many children will find their way to this storage area.
The pharmacist will provide you with an instructional guide that should include storage information.
Never leave your drugs in an incredibly hold or cold environment, because these temperatures can damage them.
Keep them away from moist areas, as well.
Never flush any medication down the toilet or sink drain because it can negatively affect the environment and marine life.
Many pharmacies will discard them for you, so check with your local pharmacy before disposing of any drug.
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline
Another essential factor that must be considered before you decide to start taking Xanax is you may have difficulty trying to stop using it.
Not only is it hazardous to go “cold turkey,” but you may find yourself having difficulty trying to wean off of the drug gradually.
Of course
You should never just decide to stop taking any type of long-term medication because they keep your symptoms at bay.
It has been determined that the Xanax withdrawal can begin as early as several hours after the last consumed dose.
This is why many users begin to experiment with the drug by taking the next dose before it is due.
Overtime
You will become so addicted that it may seem impossible to do without it, which means that your body and brain are fully dependent on it.
The withdrawal symptoms are nearly impossible to tolerate, so many individuals will seek assistance from drug rehab.
Not only will the onset of withdrawal symptoms begin within several hours after the last dose, but they can last for many weeks or months.
The process will depend on how long you have been taking the drug, so if you are determined to stop taking Xanax, you must be prepared to hang in for a tumultuous ride.
What to Expect
Always seek the advice of your psychiatrist before you begin the process of stopping Xanax.
It may not be in your best interest to stop taking Xanax because of your anxiety disorder severity.
You may need to begin taking another type of antianxiety medication to ward off your illness symptoms.
The first 12-72 hours of the withdrawal timeline will be the most dangerous.
The symptoms will begin to peak anywhere from 3-4 days, so it is essential to have someone by your side just in case you experience convulsions or other dangerous symptoms.
- Tachycardia (increased heart rate)
- Insomnia
- Severe mood swings
- Irritability/restlessness
- Nausea/Vomiting
The above symptoms are more of a nuisance than harmful, but it best to be supervised by a trained professional before and during the entire process.
After several days
You will still experience the above symptoms, along with the symptoms of your illness.
You should expect to experience some fear, anxiety, panic, and Xanax cravings, but remember that you made it this far, so do not falter from your goal.
You should expect to experience some of these symptoms for several months before you are actually weaned off of Xanax, and the cravings may linger around for many years.
Always gradually wean off of this drug, because it is too dangerous to go “cold turkey”.
Withdrawal Symptoms
Many individuals with mental illness will choose to stop taking their medications when they begin to feel better.
Once their symptoms are alleviated:
They will instantly begin to think that they are completely cured, but this is on the contrary.
Once you begin to take Xanax:
You mustn’t suddenly stop taking them.
Seizures are one of the most harmful withdrawal symptoms that can occur if the individual suddenly stops taking Xanax.
If you want to stop taking this medication:
You should speak with your psychiatrist first because they will advise you to reduce the dose gradually.
This is a much safer alternative since it will reduce the risks of dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
Ensure that you take your physician’s advice very seriously because they are fully focused on your mental and physical well-being.
Undergoing Xanax Detox
There are many individuals all around the world that are suffering from an addiction to Xanax.
Some of these people are brave enough to break their addictions.
If you’re willing to muster up the courage and return your life to normal, you’ll want to undergo a Xanax detox.
How should you proceed and attempt to break your chains?
Although
It is possible to go cold turkey with some medications; you should not do this with Xanax!
Immediately cutting off your supply of Xanax is a grave mistake and will be very unpleasant!
Instead
You will need to take a more measured approach to overcome your addiction.
You should begin cutting down on your consumption of Xanax.
This should be done deliberately and slowly.
This approach will be a little more time consuming; it will prove to be much more pleasant.
Your length of dependency and the specific amount of the drug you consume regularly will help you determine how much to cut back.
Taking this approach will prove to be much more beneficial and allow your brain to adjust.
Instead of relying on the medication to produce GABA, your brain will take over and begin producing the required GABA.
Also
Proceeding through Xanax detox in this manner will help you avoid the most severe symptoms associated with withdrawal.
In-patient Help
Many individuals wish to break their addiction to Xanax but are afraid to do so on their own.
This is entirely normal, and you should know that help is out there!
If you perform a quick search on the Internet
You will find a few in-patient treatment centers in your area.
These clinics can be extremely effective and can provide you with professional treatment.
When you sign up to partake in one of these programs
You will put yourself in the hands of an experienced specialist.
These individuals will monitor you throughout the detox process.
They’ll help to ensure that your detox is as pleasant as possible.
These clinics can provide you with an assortment of different services.
Their medical professionals can give you other medications, which can make the detox process much easier.
Also
They’ll allow you to partake in counseling sessions.
Through these sessions, you’ll be able to speak about your problems.
This can be exceptionally helpful for getting you off of the drugs.
If you’re serious about getting off of Xanax and need assistance, you should explore this option a little more closely.
Never Share Your Medications
You must never share your medications with your friends, co-workers, or family members, even though they exhibit the same symptoms as you.
They may have an underlying disorder that may trigger the onset of symptoms or interfere with current medications that have been prescribed to them by a medical professional.
It is crucial to note that Xanax is a very addictive medication.
Many drug seekers will try to encourage you to share your prescription with them, but you should avoid doing so.
It is against the law for you to dispense any benzodiazepine without a medical license.
If you live with someone that has a history of addiction:
You should not leave your medication, where they will have access to it.
Purchase a lockbox or safe, because this will be the best place to keep your drugs.
Effective Treatment
While many individuals who suffer from anxiety disorders will find relief in other benzodiazepines such as Ativan or Valium, others will find that they are ineffective in treating their frequent panic attacks.
Not everyone who suffers from anxiety will experience panic attacks, so their symptoms will be much easier to treat, but those who do need to rely on Xanax.
This drug is very effective in treating generalized anxiety disorder, as well as panic disorders.
It is never wise to self-medicate with Xanax because it has a very addictive effect.
Overall
Xanax addiction can be overwhelming if you allow it to overtake your life!
As soon as you recognize your addiction, it is imperative to begin seeking help immediately.
Whether you attempt to treat yourself or enroll yourself in a rehab program, you should work diligently and take your life back into your own hands.
I have panic disorder for a long period of time. After taking this medication, it works well and also saved my life. If you have same feeling, let you try xanax with proper consultation of your doctor. You do not take without prescription, because it is a drug and you must control using it.