If you’re feeling anxious about upcoming surgery or have a history of anxiety, you might be looking for ways to manage your stress and anxiety. One common recommendation is taking anti-anxiety medications like Xanax in the days leading up to surgery or any other stressful event.
But is it safe and effective? Let’s take a look at what research and medical professionals have to say about using Xanax before surgery.
This article may not be suitable if you avoid discussions of drugs and their effects on the body.
Table of Contents
What is Xanax?
Xanax is a prescription medication used to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. The drug is classified as an anxiolytic benzodiazepine, or a medication that has anxiolytic effects. Xanax is in the same class of medications as Valium and Ativan, which are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders.
Xanax is a controlled substance, making it illegal to possess without a prescription. It is one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs, and misuse of this drug can lead to dependence and serious health problems.
How Does Xanax Work?
Xanax works by binding to receptors in the brain that are responsible for regulating stress, anxiety, and sleep. When these receptors are activated, they reduce the activity of certain areas of the brain involved in feelings of stress and anxiety.
Xanax is a short-term solution to anxiety and should only be used a few days before surgery or another stressful event. Taking Xanax on a long-term basis is not recommended and can lead to dependence, severe withdrawal symptoms, and other serious health problems.
Will Taking Xanax Before Surgery Help Me?
Xanax may help with short-term anxiety associated with surgery, but it is not recommended for long-term use. Long-term use of Xanax can lead to dependence and other serious, even life-threatening health problems.
Studies have also found that daily intake of Xanax can raise the risk of developing dangerous heart rhythm abnormalities. Similar to most anxiolytic drugs, it is safe and effective to take Xanax before surgery.
Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and take prescribed doses no more than two or three times. Taking more can increase your risk of side effects and may not provide any additional benefit.
Potential Downsides of Using Xanax Before Surgery
In the short term, Xanax can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and decreased coordination. These side effects can make it difficult to perform surgery safely, particularly if you are taking the drug intravenously.
Xanax can also cause short-term memory loss and mental confusion. This can make it difficult to follow instructions and can lead to mistakes.
Long-term use of Xanax has been linked to a number of serious side effects. These include increased risk of falls and fractures, confusion, and tremors that may make it difficult to perform surgery.
Daily intake of Xanax can also lead to dependence and withdrawals. Stopping use of the drug suddenly can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms such as seizures, delirium, and psychosis.
Final Words
If you’re having surgery or know someone who is, you might be wondering if it’s safe and effective to take Xanax before surgery. Xanax can help reduce anxiety in the short term, but it is not recommended for long-term use.
We recommend consulting with a medical professional before taking any medication before surgery. They can help determine if taking Xanax is right for you and if there are any other options that are safer and more effective.
