Since its creation in 1981, Xanax has gained a reputation for being both highly addictive and surprisingly destructive to one’s health. Boasting powerful sedative effects, Xanax has found its way into many American homes. Often prescribed for legitimate medical reasons, many people become addicted to Xanax after only a small number of uses. With the dangers of Xanax becoming ever more present and no halt to its production in sight, it is more important now than ever before to educate oneself about the dangers that Xanax is capable of. Exploring just how long Xanax withdrawal symptoms last, as well as signs of use and treatment options available, will give us a better overall picture of how destructive Xanax can be.
What Is Xanax?
Known also by the generic name “alprazolam” Xanax is a powerful drug belonging to the benzodiazepine classification of pharmaceuticals. Primarily prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, in recent years Xanax has become a popular sleep aid.
Originally synthesized by the pharmaceutical manufacturer Upjohn (now owned by Pfizer) Xanax gained almost immediate notoriety, being hailed as a miracle drug that could quickly and effectively relieve anxiety. This excitement was short-lived however, as the horrors of Xanax abuse came to light. Today, the substance sits at a sort of crossroad between legitimate pharmaceutical and highly dangerous drug. However, as time passes and more and more studies are conducted, people are beginning to see what makes Xanax so sinister.
Is Xanax Dangerous?
In a word, Xanax is extremely dangerous. As a benzodiazepine, Xanax works to relax the body’s central nervous system. After ingesting Xanax, heart rate, breathing, and blood flow slow, producing sedating effects. If taken in too large a quantity, one’s heart and breathing slows to dangerously low levels, sometimes even stopping completely.
Those who take Xanax via a legitimate medical prescription are not safe either, as over time one develops a tolerance for Xanax. This means that, eventually, a person will have to take more and more of the drug in order to get the same original effect. Often this will lead to accidental overdose or a Xanax addiction.
Once hooked on Xanax, improperly withdrawing can prove dangerous as well. A solo or cold turkey withdrawal undertaken by oneself can be extremely dangerous, likely leading to relapse, continued use, and even death. Withdrawal is always safest when done under the supervision of a qualified team of medical professionals. This being said, just how long do Xanax withdrawal symptoms last?
Side Effects of Xanax
The side effects of Xanax offer a window into what daily life for those suffering from dependency is like. The side effects of Xanax can include:
Mental Side Effects
- Depression
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities
Physical Side Effects
- Headache
- Lowered heart rate
- Drowsiness
- Low energy
- Intoxication
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Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
Like any other highly addictive substance, Xanax withdrawals can be a challenging but rewarding process to undertake. The severity of withdrawal symptoms depends upon both the frequency and volume of use, as well as various individual factors such as weight, age, and metabolism. Generally speaking, when one undergoes Xanax withdrawal, they can expect to experience one or more of the following:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- New tension
- Suicidal thoughts
- Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities
- Depression
- Memory problems
- Muscle aches
- Restlessness
How Long Do Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Now that we know the symptoms of Xanax withdrawal, there is only one question left to ask: how long do Xanax withdrawal symptoms last? While this depends largely on the frequency and volume of Xanax that a person was using, typically, one can expect withdrawal symptoms to last between two weeks and a number of months. This timeline may also be affected by the method of withdrawal used, as, for example, a tapering method may take a bit longer to play out when compared to a more intense or short term method. Regardless of circumstance, most people see the last of their withdrawal symptoms within 4 months of quitting.
MAT In Xanax Addiction Treatment
Medication assisted treatment (MAT) is a unique two-fold method of treatment. MAT focuses on both administering helpful medications to those recovering while also implementing behavioral therapy. By approaching addiction in that manner, a person can better cope with both the mental and physical side effects that substance abuse can bring. This “whole patient” approach can yield much better results than a single method of therapy on its own. On top of this, MAT therapy is one of the best treatments for the long term avoidance of relapse. Being able to maintain sobriety while also focusing on both the mental and physical sides of addiction makes MAT therapy a great tool in the arsenal of anyone seeking help from dependency.
Find Treatment for Xanax Dependency In Tennessee
Here at Tennessee Valley Recovery, we are waiting with open arms to give you the tools necessary to reclaim your independence from addiction. Located in Knoxville, TN, we believe in empowering addiction treatment for lifelong change. Allow our team of compassionate and dedicated professionals to help you every step of the way during your recovery journey. There has never been a better time to take back your freedom. Contact us through our admissions page today and take the first steps in your personal recovery journey.