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What Is Xanax?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication that the FDA first approved in 1981. Also referred to as “xans” or “xannies,” Xanax is a brand name for alprazolam, a benzodiazepine. It is most commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Xanax can also treat other conditions, such as insomnia, muscle spasms, and alcohol withdrawal.
How Is Xanax Abused?
How Addictive Is Xanax?
How Does Xanax Work?
Why is Xanax so addictive? Mainly because of its effect on the body and mind. Xanax slows down the central nervous system. This depresses the brain’s activity and can lead to feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. High doses can cause slurred speech, impaired coordination, and difficulty breathing.
Xanax also affects the mind by causing changes in mood and perception. It can create euphoria, which can be why people abuse the drug. Xanax can also cause hallucinations and delusions.
What Are the Effects of Xanax Abuse?
- Drowsiness
- Lethargy
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Poor coordination
- Dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slow breathing
- Seizures
Which Substances Are Commonly Abused With Xanax?
Who is at Most Risk for Xanax addiction?
- People with a history of substance abuse
- People with a family history of substance abuse or addiction
- People with mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression
- People who have easy access to Xanax, such as through a friend or family member
Which Demographic is Most Affected by Xanax?
Prescription drug abuse is most common among 18- to 25-year-olds. 5 of the top 10 reasons teenagers misuse prescription drugs have to do with accessibility. Some studies indicate that senior and elderly medicated patients may be at heightened risk of developing addiction due to the number and variety of drugs they take for health reasons. 16% of abused prescriptions are black market purchases.
Prescription Drug Addiction Rates
Healthcare specialists generally agree that a high rate of use and availability drives reported rates of prescription drug abuse, addiction, and, ultimately, overdose. 16.3 million people misuse prescriptions in a year. 22.6% of them, or 3.7 million people, misuse prescriptions for the first time. Prescriptions are the fifth most abused substance after alcohol (65.5% usage) and tobacco products (26.7% usage).
Women are 11% more likely than men to be prescribed medication, but men are 22.9% more likely to misuse prescriptions. Both men and women are most likely to use pain relievers, with 32.5% more men than women using them. Women are more likely to use stimulants as study aids or to increase alertness; men are more likely to use stimulants to get high or experiment. College initiates to stimulants are more likely to abuse them as study aids, whereas pre-college initiates are more likely to abuse stimulants for fun or out of curiosity.
WHAT ARE THE WITHDRAWAL EFFECTS OF XANAX?
The withdrawal effects of Xanax can be severe and can include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Seizures
If you or someone you know is addicted to Xanax, treatment options are available. Treatment typically involves a combination of medication and therapy. Medication may be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Therapy can help address any underlying mental health issues contributing to the addiction.
If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction to Xanax, please get help as soon as possible. Many resources are available to those struggling with addiction, including hotlines, support groups, and treatment facilities. Getting help is the first step on the road to recovery.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN PHYSICAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DEPENDENCE?
Physical dependence on a substance occurs when the body becomes used to the presence of the drug and starts to experience withdrawal symptoms when it is removed. Withdrawal symptoms can include headaches, sweating, tremors, and nausea. Psychological dependence occurs when a person feels that they need to use a substance in order to cope with their everyday life.
Xanax addiction can occur because the drug is so effective at reducing anxiety and panic. This can lead people to take larger doses than prescribed or take the medication more often than they should. Over time, this can lead to physical and psychological dependence on Xanax.
What are the Consequences of Xanax Addiction?
Xanax is a highly addictive drug because it creates changes in the brain that make it difficult for people to stop using the drug. When people abuse Xanax, they are at risk of developing an addiction. Addiction to Xanax can lead to serious consequences, including overdose and death. If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to Xanax, get help from a professional treatment provider today.
WHAT ARE SOME TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR XANAX ADDICTION?
The treatment options for Xanax addiction include:
- Detox: Detox is usually the first step in the addiction recovery process. Through medical help, detox removes the toxins in the body built up from substance abuse.
- Dual Diagnosis: Dual diagnosis is a form of treatment to help those with a co-occurring disorder or a combination of substance abuse and mental health disorder.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment: Medications can be offered to help those struggling with withdrawal symptoms and pre-existing conditions during addiction treatment.
- Inpatient treatment: This type of treatment is typically reserved for people with severe addictions. Inpatient treatment involves staying at a residential facility where you will receive 24-hour care.
- Outpatient treatment: Outpatient treatment is a good option for people with less severe addictions. With outpatient treatment, you live at home and go to the treatment facility for therapy and counseling sessions.
- 12-step programs: These programs are based on the Alcoholics Anonymous model and can be helpful for people who are struggling with addiction.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Xanax addiction, there is help available. Treatment can vary depending on the severity of the addiction, but there are options out there that can help. Achieve Wellness and Recovery is determined to be there for you when you need support. Xanax addiction can rob you of the best moments of your life and those around you. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, contact us today at 833-680-0142.
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