Benzodiazepine Abuse: Addiction and Side Effects

The prevalence of Xanax addiction has surged, with emergency room visits related to recreational abuse rising from 57,419 in 2005 to 124,902 in 2010. Meanwhile, the number of prescriptions for Xanax increased from 38 million in 2006 to 50 million in 2013, reflecting a steady annual prescription growth rate of 9% since 2008​, according to Drugs.com. Misuse for non-medical reasons, such as getting high or coping with stress, accounts for a large portion of the Xanax addiction cases​. The main symptoms of Xanax addiction include drowsiness, slurred speech, impaired coordination, and memory problems. Individuals also experience mood swings, anxiety, and cravings for the drug.

How long does Xanax addiction treatment take?

Transitioning from a structured treatment environment into daily life can be challenging, and aftercare helps bridge this gap by offering ongoing support and guidance. Aftercare aims to help individuals maintain sobriety, prevent relapse, and continue personal growth as they reintegrate into their communities. Over time, the skills learned in DBT can significantly improve overall mental health, better relationships, and a greater sense of control over one’s life. This foundation is essential for long-term recovery from Xanax addiction.

What should be done in case of overdose?

This is why most plans include regular drug addiction treatment check-ins and a clear endpoint. Additionally, tapering slowly makes it easier for the body to adapt when it’s time to stop. However, the drug stays in the body longer than this, it’s just that the main noticeable effects wear off sooner.

• Both options have benefits and challenges; understanding these can help individuals make informed decisions about their detox process.
• The first step is to identify any misconceptions you might have about addiction.
• The prescribed dosage depends on the symptoms, setting, and how someone responds.
• Addiction screening tools may be used to quickly rule out or confirm certain conditions, and to determine how severe someone’s substance use disorder is.
• Benzodiazepine drugs are also sometimes used as “date rape” drugs because they impair the functions that normally allow a person to resist sexual aggression or assault.

What Is Alprazolam and Its Role as a Benzodiazepine?

• However, when someone starts to misuse Xanax, the signs become more apparent.
• These alternatives aren’t substitutes for medication in high-intensity moments, but they can help some people feel steadier day to day.
• It’s especially helpful in the short term, during particularly stressful periods, or while waiting for other longer-term treatments, like therapy, to begin seeing the effects.
• Doctors often prescribe Xanax for anxiety and panic attacks, but it can also have other uses.

This phenomenon is known as a dual diagnosis or co-occurring disorder. Effective treatment for Xanax addiction must address both the addiction and any underlying mental health conditions simultaneously. At 12 South Recovery, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment, providing comprehensive care tailored to meet each individual’s unique needs. Xanax, also known by its generic name alprazolam, belongs to a class xanax addiction of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that promotes relaxation and reduces anxiety.

What is the dosage of Xanax?

This hyperpolarizes the neuronal membrane, reducing neuronal excitability and producing calming and sedative effects. Its lipophilic nature allows rapid crossing of the blood-brain barrier, contributing to its quick onset of action and increased potential for tolerance and dependence with prolonged use​, as noted by Drugwatch. While therapeutic doses effectively manage anxiety by mitigating excessive neural firing, higher doses or misuse result in drowsiness, memory impairment, or severe respiratory depression​.

Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction

Xanax tablets are scored and can be split if your doctor or pharmacist advises this. The manufacturer does not provide information on taking Xanax this way. If you have difficulty swallowing Xanax, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.