There are thousands, if not millions, of individuals that are addicted to prescription medications.
In fact
These drugs tend to be more readily available, which make them targets for drug abusers.
Xanax is undoubtedly one of the most abused drugs in the entire world, especially in America.
Of course
It is vital to know that there are several different types of Xanax.
Within this guide, you will learn about each of these.
Table of Contents
An Overview
Before getting into the various types of Xanax, it is essential to look at the drug as a whole.
What is this medication, and what is the purpose of consuming it?
Well
Xanax, which is also known as Alprazolam, is characterized as a benzodiazepine.
These medications alter the brain’s chemicals and can produce some very startling side effects, such as clumsiness and anxiety.
At the same time
This drug is often utilized to treat mental disorders, especially anxiety, panic, and even depression.
The overall effectiveness of this medication depends on the type and dosage given.
Below
You will learn a little more about the various types, their colors, and their specific dosages.
Xanax Statistics
The United States has ultimately experienced a major drug epidemic, and the war on drugs has failed.
The occurrence of overdoses has increased substantially, and more and more individuals are turning to Xanax.
This isn’t a coincidence:
Xanax is readily available and prescribed to a large portion of the population.
In 2011
It was reported that Xanax was prescribed to approximately 50 million individuals.
The prescription rates topped those of similar drugs, including Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, and Restoril.
Due to the drug’s availability and its powerful high, it has become a favorite among abusers.
Unlike other medications
Xanax abuse targets everyone. It isn’t racially or wealth selective.
Men and women from all backgrounds have been known to abuse these specific drugs.
What Are Xanax Bars?
Before going any further, you should take the time to familiarize yourself with the basics of Xanax.
What is this medication, what is its purpose, and when it is utilized?
First and foremost
You should know that Xanax is a benzodiazepine with the active ingredient of Alprazolam.
When the medication is consumed, it will directly impact the chemicals within the user’s brain.
It is specifically designed to target the chemicals which may cause an unbalance and lead to anxiety problems.
Xanax bars and other forms of the medication can be used for a whole host of purposes, including panic disorders, anxiety disorders, and even depression.
The drug may also be used for other reasons and is misused by drug abusers commonly.
Although
The medication can be incredibly dangerous when abused; it is relatively safe when used under strict supervision.
However
It is habit-forming, and this may give many consumers concerns.
How Should Xanax Be Taken?
Whether you’ve been prescribed bars or another Xanax dosage, you’ll want to make sure you keep yourself safe and diminish risks by consuming the medication safely.
The truth of the matter is that your doctor will know what is best.
When the medical professional prescribes Xanax, they’ll also tell you specifically how much to consume each day and when to consume it.
It is essential to make sure you abide by your doctor’s guidelines.
Failing to do so will substantially increase the risks associated with the medication and elevate the chances of becoming physically and mentally addicted to the drug.
So
How can you use the drug carefully, safely, and avoid becoming addicted?
Although
There will still be risks; there are precautions that can help minimize the risks.
First and foremost
You’ll want to make sure you follow your doctor’s orders.
Your doctor will know more than anyone else about you, your tolerance level, and your current condition.
Never disobey or deviate from their rules.
Never take the medication more than instructed and never increase the dosage without first consulting with your doctor.
Finally
It is essential to make sure you avoid crushing the pill.
Only consume Xanax within its traditional pill form.
Snorting Xanax is dangerous and will substantially increase the risks involved.
Precautions To Take
When utilizing Xanax regularly, it is truly pertinent to make sure you take precautions and avoid potential substances, which may interact with this medication.
Failing to do so could very lead to startling side effects.
First and foremost
It is essential to avoid mixing alcohol and Xanax!
The use of Xanax can lead to an impairment of your judgment, while also decreasing your reaction time, so it may be best to avoid driving or operating machinery while taking the medication.
Also
Grapefruit and its juice can interact with the ingredients of Xanax.
To avoid unwanted side effects, it is vital to avoid consuming this juice while taking Xanax.
Other Drugs To Avoid
It is truly vital to remember that some drugs will interact with one another and result in negative side effects.
It is unwise to consume Xanax while consuming any sleeping pill, muscle relaxer, or narcotic.
When consulting with your medical doctor, you should tell them about any medications you are currently taking.
Below
You’ll find a list of drugs that may negatively interact with Xanax.
- Digoxin
- Fluvoxamine
- Cimetidine
- HIV and Aids medications
- Antifungals
- Nefazodone
Remember that this is not a comprehensive list.
To make sure you avoid all potential interactions, prepare a list of medications you currently take and present them with to your doctor.
They’ll be able to make sure you’re safe to consume Xanax before prescribing you the drug.
White Xanax Bars
White Xanax bars are a 2-milligram dose.
This is a very high dose of Xanax, contains four tiny pieces and separated by scores, so the user can split them if necessary.
It is wise to avoid going “cold turkey” on this drug because it has some wicked withdrawal symptoms.
Green Xanax
Although many consumers do not know it, an assortment of different pharmaceutical companies is responsible for producing this medication.
The green pills are very similar to the white and yellow bars. They’re all 2mg of Xanax.
The only differences are the visible characteristics and the manufacturer. Taking the green form of Xanax will result in the same effects as the white and yellow bars.
Blue Xanax
The blue Xanax is a 1-milligram dose, which has an oval or elliptical shape.
Most of these pills are scored so that the user can break them in half. It is essential to follow the prescribed directions and avoid altering the dose because this is a very addictive drug.
Yellow Xanax
When you are prescribed Xanax by your doctor, they can give you an assortment of different pills.
Some will be given a little yellow bar, which has the numbers 039 inscribed on the front.
This is a generic form of the drug, but it will produce the same effects as the traditional medication.
If you have a yellow pill in this manner, you are holding onto 2mg of Alprazolam or Xanax.
Liquid Xanax
Although many people do not realize it, Xanax is available in a liquid form.
Medical doctors don’t prescribe this form as frequently, but it is available.
This type of Xanax typically comes in a small bottle, and each ml of the drug accounts for 2mg of Xanax.
While the manner of consuming the medication might be a little different, the results will precisely be the same.
Oral syringes may be required to consume this form of the drug.
Peach Xanax
For less severe cases, the doctor may prescribe you with a lower dose of Xanax.
This often comes in the form of a small peach pill, which is oval.
This pill will usually have the numbers 257 placed on the front, but this isn’t always the case.
This is nothing more than a .5 mg dosage of Alprazolam or Xanax.
The peach color is also often associated with orange, but they’re generally one and the same!
Pink Xanax
The pink Xanax is a 0.5-milligram dose, a suitable dose for treating panic and anxiety disorders.
You will need a prescription to purchase this benzodiazepine. Many drug seekers will still purchase it from family members or friends because they cannot get their physicians to authorize a prescription for their disorder.
About Xanax Bars
There are a variety of different Xanax types, and they’re generally classified based on their dosages.
Bars are distinguishable by their appearance, but many people are unaware that this specific form of the medication is simply 2 milligrams.
When examining the other forms, you will find that the bars are the highest dosage available, aside from a 3-mg tablet, which is only available in an extended-release form.
As long as you’ve been prescribed an entire 2-milligram dosage of Xanax, you can consume the whole bar safely.
However
The bars are scored into four portions.
Some patients will be instructed to break the bars and only consume a small quantity at a time.
Purchasing the bars and breaking them into portions to match the dosage required can prove less costly than buying the precise dosage needed.
Although
The genuine bars are white, generic versions are available, and they’ll vary in color.
Before Consuming Any Form of Xanax
Before taking any type of Xanax, it is essential to make sure that you first speak with your medical professional.
If you’re consuming any other medications, it may not be safe for you to begin taking Xanax.
Below
You will find a list of reasons to speak to your doctor before taking this medication.
- You suffer from seizures or epilepsy
- Liver or kidney disease
- You are asthmatic or suffer from a breathing disorder
- A history of drug or alcohol addiction is present in your family
- You have a background of depression or suicidal thoughts
It should also be known that women who are pregnant should never use Xanax!
This specific drug can cause congenital disabilities and result in a baby who is also dependent on the medication.
The withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening for your child, so you should avoid it during pregnancy!
Xanax And Xanax Bar Side Effects
Whether you’re consuming Xanax or some other form of this medication, there is a potential that you will experience side effects.
The medication can impact everyone differently, and you never really know how it will affect you until you’ve taken it.
Therefore, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the side effects to be ready for whatever lies ahead.
Also
Remember that it is possible to diminish the probability of experiencing these effects by following your doctor’s consumption instructions strictly!
Nonetheless, the most common side effects of Xanax can be found below.
- Confusion and forgetfulness
- Increased clumsiness
- Lethargy and decreased motivation
- Decrease in appetite
- Drowsiness
- Decreased or difficult mobility
- Aches and pains
- Rashes
- Shaking and shivering
- Potential for seizures
- Hallucinations
- Chest pain
- Hearing loss
The mass majority of these systems are sporadic, but heavy drug abusers may experience them.
With this in mind, it is essential to only use the drug as intended and, as prescribed, to decrease the risks, while benefiting from its good effects.
How To Get Xanax
Many people suffer from depression and anxiety.
These individuals will undoubtedly attempt to seek out Xanax to diminish their symptoms and restore normalcy to their lives.
Unfortunately
Xanax isn’t a drug, which can be purchased directly over the counter.
The truth of the matter is that Xanax is one of the most commonly abused drugs, forcing the government to put regulations on its sale.
With this in mind
The only legal way to acquire Xanax is by visiting with your doctor and obtaining a prescription.
Once you’ve scheduled an appointment and have met with your doctor, they will analyze your condition and make a judgment based on your signs and conditions.
If they feel that you’d benefit from the medication, they’ll write you a prescription.
Unfortunately
A lot of people will try and purchase the drug from a street dealer.
This is not safe and could lead to significant consequences. When purchasing from an unreliable dealer, you could be putting yourself in a risky situation.
You never really know what you’re purchasing and what you’re doing is illegal!
Simply do not perform this risky activity!
Spotting Xanax Abuse
Again, Xanax is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the United States.
The drug’s euphoric high makes it incredibly popular amongst drug abusers.
Some will even go to extreme and mix the drugs, despite the immense dangers of doing so.
With this in mind, you need to get a Xanax abuser help immediately, or their condition will snowball and worsen rapidly.
Drug abusers can be very secretive, so it can be difficult to confirm their problem until it is too late.
Below, you’ll find a list of things to look for when attempting to identify Xanax abuse amongst a loved one.
- Decreased energy levels and lethargy
- Increased isolation
- No longer interested in things they once loved
- Difficulty focusing or concentrating
- Has trouble communicating with you and others
- Exhibits slurred speech
- Seems confused and disoriented
- Unable to remember important events, times, or people
- Irritability
- Outburst and lack of self-control
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it is pertinent to seek your loved one right away.
Xanax addiction can be conquered, but it requires dedication, and you’ll need to guide your loved one in the right direction.
Xanax Abuse Treatment
As soon as you’ve confirmed that your loved one had been abusing Xanax, it is truly pertinent to seek assistance right away.
There are various treatment options available
It is possible to overcome this type of substance abuse problem, but it will not be easy.
Withdrawing from Xanax can be excruciating and should only be carried out under a medical professional’s supervision.
The good news is:
That there are numerous treatment facilities and rehabs throughout the country, and all of them will be able to offer this type of specialty support.
If you believe you cannot afford treatment, you should consult with your insurance provider.
Various changes have been made in the past few years.
These changes have helped increase the availability of drug abuse treatment programs while decreasing the patient’s cost.
The mass majority of drug rehab centers now accept standard insurance policies.
Consult with your insurance provider and find out the specifics before giving up hope.
Xanax Abuse
Like many benzodiazepines, Xanax is highly addictive
In fact
It has become one of the most popularly abused prescription drugs.
Many individuals that are suffering from anxiety, with or without panic attacks, will suffer in silence.
For this very reason:
They will potentially try to treat their disorder without the guidance of a licensed psychiatrist.
This is a costly mistake that can lead to addiction, especially if the medication involved is Xanax.
Xanax is so popular because of its sedative-like side effects.
The onset almost occurs immediately after consumption, which makes them even more desirable.
Individuals that obtain Xanax without a prescription are not the only ones at risk of addiction.
In fact
Many of those that are prescribed the drug will tend to abuse it some form or another.
Altering the prescribed dosage is risky behavior that increases the risks of addiction.
These individuals are aware of this fact, but this continues to be the most common cause of prescription drug abuse.
Xanax is a schedule IV drug due to its high dependency potential and its medical uses.
Naloxone
Prescription abuse has evolved over the last few years, with a massive increase in accidental overdose occurrences.
To combat this issue, decrease healthcare costs, and save overdose victim’s life, law enforcement, fire department, and emergency response teams are being trained to administer Naloxone.
This prescription drug is capable of blocking the opioid effects and reducing the risk of overdose death.
In the near future
Congress hopes to make this drug available to family members and friends of addicts that frequently overdose.
Schools throughout the United States will also be authorized to keep Naloxone on hand for those just-in-case moments.
School officials
Along with the nurse will be able to administer the drug at any time an overdose is expected.
In the past
Naloxone was only available in the intravenous form, but this limited its uses since untrained individuals would not be able to administer it appropriately.
Today
It is available in the nasal and auto-injection form so that anyone can administer it within a second’s notice.
Amphastar
The pharmaceutical company responsible for developing this medication has worked diligently to increase its production over the last 12 months.
The goal is to make Naloxone available to everyone while making it easier to administer.
Xanax Overdose Side Effects
Accidental Xanax overdose is very common. The numbers continue to increase daily, so it is so important to get educated on the side effects.
These side effects will vary from one person to another, so monitor the individual care.
- Hematemesis (vomiting blood)
- Jaundice sclera and skin (yellowing pigmentation)
- Uncontrolled jerking and movements
- Dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
- Insomnia, which may last for days
- Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
- Chest discomfort (tightness, pain)
- Out of control behavior
- Heart palpitations
- Inability to talk, walk, or control bladder
- Night terrors
- Excitement, paranoia, and extremely talkative
- Light-colored stools
- Severe abdominal pain
Painful urination, increased sleepiness, and loss of consciousness are infrequent side effects but will be exhibited by overdose victims.
If you notice any of these signs, you should immediately seek emergency treatment.
The longer you wait to get help, the higher your chances of death.
Convulsions
If you are currently taking a routine dose of prescription Xanax, you should always follow the recommended directions to a tee.
Never stop taking Xanax without a licensed medical professional’s advice because this can increase your risk of convulsions.
Grand mal seizures have been reported in individuals with a long use history.
If you want to discontinue this medication
You should speak with your physician first so that an appropriate plan can be devised.
Your physician will gradually taper you off the drug, so it may take several months to stop taking it without potential risks.
Suicidal Ideations
Psychiatric drugs will have different effects on different people.
Even though the drug is prescribed to treat depression or anxiety does not always mean that it is effective.
There have been many instances where the symptoms related to psychiatric disorder will increase or worsen.
When this occurs, it puts the individual at risk of attempting suicide.
When your psychiatrist prescribes an antidepressant or antianxiety medication, you should educate yourself on the potential side effects before consumption.
If your symptoms worsen
You should contact the physician’s office and request to speak with a nurse.
The physician will probably tell you to stop taking the medication, and a new prescription will be called into the local pharmacy.
Xanax And Obesity
While licensed medical professionals throughout the United States will prescribe Xanax to individuals suffering from obesity, this is not always a good idea.
In fact
There have been several cases reported where obese patients have experienced Xanax toxicity.
Older adults are also at risk of Xanax toxicity because the body systems have gradually slowed down throughout the latter years of life.
In obese patients
The plasma half-lives of Xanax may be delayed since the increased distribution into the fatty tissue.
When prescribing Xanax to obese patients, it is imperative to prescribe a low dose, with gradual increases.
Liver function tests should also be completed daily, so alterations in the dose can be made accordingly.
Conclusion
At the end of the day
There are many different types of Xanax, but they’re typically all the same, aside from the dosage.
Using the information presented above, you will be able to identify the specific Xanax and dosage you have been prescribed.
Sources:
Alprazolam – MedlinePlus GOV
Benzodiazepines Side Effects, Abuse Risk and Alternatives – Semantic Scholar
13 Comments
I myself think Xanax is a great pill to take for anxiety disorder and a must for panic attacks. What makes me so MAD is all these people saying it is very addictive well I have something to say to them……You would not take a pill away from someone who had a physical illness like blood pressure bill, insulin for a diabetic, heart pills, then why are you treating mental illness in a different way? If someone is diagnosed with anxiety and panic attacks why are you trying to get rid of Xanax???? If you have anxiety than you have it and you need that Xanax to treat it. Mental illness should never be treated any different from any physical illness. Even though that means that doctors have to write that prescription for Xanax. Don’t tell me about habit forming because this is what I say……everything can be habit forming…..including that coffee some have to have in the mornings or they just can’t function. The Xanax is not the habit forming problem it is the anxiety and the panic attacks that are habit forming the Xanax just treats the condition. So before you take that Xanax away from someone fighting and dealing with anxiety and panic attacks think would you take a diabetics insulin away?? How about that heart pill?? Well it is the same thing when you take the Xanax away from a person with anxiety and panic attacks it is just plain evil and inhuman to do that to another individual. Keep Xanax on the market and lay off the darn doctors so they can treat their patients. What you are doing is plain out torture to people.
I have neen taking white 2mg xanex for 5 yrars. Thete have been times when Iget a refiill, they are out of white so I got green or yellow. I would take the same dosage & felt NOTHING. My friends said it was all in my mind. To prove them wrong & something to myself, i had 3 bars, a white, yelliw & green on atale. I closed my eyes, mixed them around, took one & walked out not knowing the color I took. Whit takes affect in an hr. Four hrs later, I still felt nothing. I went home, looked on the table, the green & white were still there. So I KNEW it wasn’t just all in my mind. Since then, I did it again, same procedure, nothing. When I got home, the white & yellow were still there. Same 2 mg. Can anyone please help me understand?
Xanax is a great anxiety drug..even helps me with pain issues..i’m prescribed 1mg. 4 times daily and 2 2mg extended release daily..I never here or read any comments about extended release and wonder why? It is a great drug and stays with you alot longer..not sure what the shelf life is but more people should check it out
Xanax is my wonder drug
Before 4 months of my child birth, I have resigned my job and take complete rest at home in the rest of my pregnancy period. In the 8th month of my pregnancy, I had several issues due to my over workload and stress factors inside my body. Doctors gave me a temporary treatment and after my child birth I have used the Xanax to get the effective stress reduction results.
I have asthma compliant for about last 3 years and my health care provider told me to not use the Xanax pill along with the medicines for asthma. Recently before 6 months, I have completely done full body check up and doctor gives me a perfection certificate even reduced symptoms of asthma. So, I started using the Xanax drug to reduce the life threatening anxiety, stress and depression problems as per the direction of my physician.
This Xanax medicine will surely be the best choice to reduce the life threatening symptoms and effects of the anxiety issues. Most of the people think that it is habit forming drug but I have used it for more than three months. I have not got such types of habitual forming symptoms with the Xanax drug. But my doctor told me to not misuse this medicine, otherwise it will cause addiction. So, I only follow the instructions and correct dosage level suggested by my health care provider. He also told me to stop drinking alcohol while consuming the Xanax and now I’m happy with its wonderful results.
I’m really happy with the Xanax pills because it would be very helpful to treat my panic disorders, anxiety disorders and also depression. As I’m working in the very tight and stressful schedule, depression has become a daily issue in my everyday life. With the regular use of this excellent pill, I can completely reduce my stress & depression and at the same time, I can peaceful work in my office environment.
I have been in the treatment of anxiety disorder for more than two years and I was really feeling very bad with my undesirable results. Finally, I have tried out the Xanax drug which includes the effective alprazolam to balance the anxiety behaviors.
Before starting to use the Xanax medicine for my anxiety and depression related issues, I thought a lot of thinks regarding its ingredients, regular use, prescription, dosage, side effects, results and everything. But it is not complicated to use this drug as I thought. I consulted with my doctor and he said that there is no problem in using the Xanax for my anxiety issues and I immediately started using it regularly.
Purple Footballs have 1 mg
What Is the purple Xanax mg does it have? I got some purple ones & want to know the difference.
I have test a lot “herbal xanax” for me THE BEST is “Nuphorin Anxiet” without any doubt, it’s even better than the real xanax because it’s free of all these weird chemical stuff! plus 0 addiction risk, I feel good all the day long but don’t take more than one pills, if you take like 3-4 pills you will feel the same “drowsy” effects of xanax.
So I just want say ok it’s an over the counter pills but still a really powerful medication, don’t take it if you don’t need it