Xanax addiction is characterized by a compulsive craving to use the substance despite negative consequences. Xanax, known generically as alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Xanax is a medication that works by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA helps to reduce abnormal brain activity, leading to feelings of calm and relaxation. When used as prescribed, Xanax can provide relief for individuals experiencing anxiety and panic attacks. Xanax withdrawal happens when a user who is using Xanax (alprazolam) regularly suddenly stops or reduces their dose.
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When combined with opioids or alcohol, it increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose. Xanax also interacts with antidepressants, antihistamines, and antifungal medications, which alter its metabolism and prolong its effects. The FDA warns against mixing Xanax with other central nervous system depressants due to the high risk of life-threatening sedation. According to a study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, benzodiazepine overdoses accounted for 30% of prescription drug overdose deaths in the U.S. in 2020.
What Medications Should Not Be Taken with Xanax?
He believes in the value of hard work and dedication to overcoming mental illness and will help his patients to achieve their mental health goals. Along the way, Eric worked as a collaborating investigator for the field trials of the DSM-5 and completed an agreement to provide mental health treatment to underserved communities with the National Health Service Corp. Since alprazolam additionally elicits a pleasant euphoria and other changed responses in the brain, users can become addicted to this feeling—using more and more in an attempt to recreate these effects.
Does Xanax Have Withdrawal Symptoms?
The more of the drug that is taken, the greater the likelihood is that tolerance will begin to develop. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, finding the right treatment is an important first step towards making positive changes in your life. Our caring admissions navigators are available free of charge 24/7 to talk on our hotline. You can contact us at to discuss treatment options or verify your benefits so that you can get the help you need. Overdose symptoms may include severe drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, slow heartbeats, weak or shallow breathing, fainting, or coma.
- You might wonder if it’s drugs or something different, such as a demanding job or a stressful life change.
- Common side effects of Xanax are drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, low blood pressure, increased saliva production, irritability, trouble with coordination, aggressive behavior, memory loss, and trouble speaking.
- It is typically taken orally and acts quickly, producing its effects within minutes.
- Most drugs involved in misuse or addiction frequently lead to dopamine release.
Remember, keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children, never share your medicines with others, and use Xanax only for the indication prescribed. If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby. Xanax can slow or stop xanax addiction your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. We do not receive any commission or fee that is dependent upon which treatment provider a caller chooses.
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The signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction are anxiety when not using the drug, strong cravings, drowsiness, slurred speech, blurred vision, lying to get more prescriptions, loss of control, and difficulty drug addiction concentrating. Xanax addiction occurs when someone becomes dependent on the drug, both physically and mentally. Unlike misuse, which may involve taking Xanax outside of prescribed guidelines, addiction compels a person to continue using it despite the negative impact on their life. At Carolina Center for Recovery, we work with family members, co-workers and other professionals, as well as directly with the individual in need of support to provide comprehensive care and treatment for addiction. We can offer guidance and insight into the recovery process, and will work to provide you with clarity into the steps that lay ahead.
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