Long-term consumption of this anti-anxiety medication leads to the development of Xanax addiction. Moreover, this form xanax addiction of prescription drug abuse affects the brain and the central nervous system, resulting in cognitive impairment. Though the short-term usage of the medication proves effective, the long-term usage of this addictive drug can prove fatal. When facing stressful life events, turning to Xanax for relief may seem like a quick solution. The relationship between stress and Xanax consumption is complex, as the drug’s calming effects can provide temporary relief from anxiety and tension. However, relying on Xanax as a coping mechanism can lead to dependence and addiction.
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It’s crucial to explore healthy coping mechanisms such as exercise, mindfulness practices, or therapy to manage stress effectively without depending on Xanax. Xanax addiction is a type of substance use disorder characterized by the compulsive use of the prescription medication Xanax (a brand name for alprazolam), which is a benzodiazepine. This condition involves a physical and psychological dependence on the drug, leading to an inability to control its use despite negative consequences.
- We ensure the highest quality care to patients by rolling out an individualized treatment plan.
- Xanax addiction relates to co-occurring disorders by appearing with issues like anxiety, depression, and alcohol use disorder.
- Xanax addiction is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to use the drug despite negative consequences.
- Additionally, some people are predisposed to substance addiction, possibly due to genetic factors and altered activity of neurotransmitters in the brain.
- Inpatient rehabilitation programs provide intensive treatment for Xanax addiction in a structured environment.
- To manage Xanax withdrawal safely requires a medically supervised tapering process, which gradually reduces the dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
- A lack of oxygen flowing to the brain can result in coma, brain damage and, ultimately, death.
Medication
- Alprazolam, a medication that may cause physical dependence and, in some cases, addiction, is commonly prescribed.
- You need them to stay open to what you are trying to say, and to do this you need to make it clear that you are coming from a place of love and concern, and not disapproval.
- At New Chapter Faith Recovery, we provide compassionate, faith-based support to help individuals regain control and break free from substance use.
- Xanax falls in the category of central nervous system depressants or sedatives.
- It is important to get medical help during withdrawal to manage symptoms and avoid serious issues, like seizures and psychosis.
If you have many receptors within your brain and body, you’ll feel more euphoria with each dose. Additionally, addiction tends to run in families—if your parents or relatives have struggled with substance abuse, you may be more vulnerable to Xanax addiction. Widespread Xanax abuse has societal implications such as increased healthcare costs, strain on social services, and potential legal ramifications for both Sober living house users and suppliers. Addressing the root causes of addiction is crucial in tackling these broader social issues. Addiction treatment is similar to treating chronic conditions such as diabetes, or hypertension. Addiction treatment does not cure it but rather, manages the disorder and equips the addicted person with skills to prevent a relapse.
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MAT uses medications like clonazepam to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), address the psychological aspects of addiction. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) treats Xanax addiction by focusing on reducing cravings and stabilizing mental health during recovery. Common medications used include flumazenil to reverse benzodiazepine effects, antidepressants to manage co-occurring depression, and beta-blockers to control physical symptoms like heart palpitations.
- These episodes can be very dangerous because a person may act out violently or engage in risky behaviors that they might not engage in normally.
- Physical dependence can occur with or without an addiction to the drug; however, it is a common feature of addiction.
- The time span for which the symptoms of Xanax withdrawal last ranges from weeks to several months.
Some may use it occasionally, while others may develop a compulsive need for the drug, leading to more severe addiction. You might find yourself doctor shopping, manipulating healthcare providers to secure multiple prescriptions, and maintaining hidden stashes of pills to ensure a constant supply. Any individual prone to Xanax use for a long duration will become addicted to it. However, individuals with a history of Substance Use Disorder or who are already suffering from paranoia, depression, phobia, insomnia, anxiety, and mood instability are at higher risk. In addition, doctors often use Valium, a long-acting benzodiazepine, to help patients.
Xanax consumption also impairs one’s driving capability, which leads to an increased risk of accidents. Another major sign that is indicative of Xanax addiction is that the individuals suffering from it are generally in denial. During the confrontation, they are likely to become defensive and aggressive. It is expected that they do not realize that they have fallen prey to Xanax addiction. Increased menstrual bleeding, excessive menstrual cramping, and breast tenderness are some common symptoms among women. An individual who is addicted to Xanax is likely to have a persistent and irresistible urge to consume the drug.
Xanax Addiction: Symptoms and Signs
A professional Xanax addiction treatment center can help you safely clear the drug from your system through a process called detox. Afterward, you can transition into a rehabilitation program that helps you learn how to live a healthier, Xanax-free life. Xanax addiction relates to co-occurring disorders by appearing with issues like anxiety, depression, and alcohol use disorder.
About 80% of older adults achieve abstinence, while about 25% of those with complicated addiction with polydrug use achieve abstinence. The severity of the disorder can be classified as “mild” if two to three criteria are met, “moderate” if four to five are met, and “severe” if six or more are met. These classifications may help direct the most appropriate course of treatment. There are several proposed explanations for why these groups may be at risk. Research shows that young adults who use Xanax tend to use it along with illegal drugs and are also more likely to have psychiatric conditions, which might be undiagnosed or untreated. Xanax overdose causes central nervous system (CNS) depression, which is a direct result of the drug’s effect on reduced neuronal excitability.
What Medical Interventions Are Used to Address Xanax Abuse?
Behavioral therapies help address underlying issues contributing to addiction while promoting healthy coping mechanisms. This is particularly important for patients with a history of drug misuse or substance use disorders. During detox, your body eliminates the drug, helping you overcome physical dependence.
Xanax is among the most frequently prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States. According to a 2018 study by Ait-Daoud, N., et al, published in the Journal of Addiction Medicine, 48 million prescriptions of alprazolam were dispensed in 2013. This effect is particularly dangerous when combined with other CNS depressants and poses life-threatening risks. Xanax addiction is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to use the drug despite negative consequences. Users feel an overwhelming need to continue taking Xanax to avoid the distress of withdrawal or to achieve a state of euphoria. This results in behaviors such as doctor shopping, where individuals visit multiple physicians to obtain additional prescriptions, or obtaining the drug through illegal means.