Warning Signs of Xanax Abuse

Xanax abuse and addiction can be life-altering, and life-threatening. Knowing the warning signs of Xanax addiction can help identify a potential problem and lead to loved ones seeking proper help to beat the addiction. Xanax is a dangerous drug.

The effects can reach all aspects of a person’s life. It can affect health, social standing, and overall well-being. Understanding what Xanax is and how it can affect a person can help friends and family to know the depth of the problem and encourage their loved one to get help before it is too late. 

What is Xanax?

Sold under the brand name Xanax, alprazolam is a benzodiazepine drug only legally obtained through a medical doctor’s prescription used mainly to treat anxiety disorders. It has an array of uses alongside helping those with anxiety disorders. It is a controlled substance due to its effects and potential for abuse.

The effects of Xanax can begin within an hour and last for 6 hours, making it extremely dangerous while the effects are in place. It can cause drowsiness, slowed motor movements, and delayed reaction times. This is why it can be extremely dangerous to drive while taking this medication. 

Xanax works by producing sedative-like effects on the central nervous system (CNS). Xanax abuse occurs when the medication is taken in a manner other than prescribed. This can mean taking more than prescribed, taking a friend’s prescription, or taking it in a way that isn’t expressly written in the prescription, for example, crushing and snorting them. 

Warning Signs of Xanax Abuse

The warning signs of Xanax abuse can be obvious to some. If there is a loved one that could potentially be struggling with Xanax, knowing what the warning signs are can be beneficial to encouraging them to seek the right help. Getting help is essential for getting better.

Some of the warning signs of Xanax abuse can include: 

• Lightheadedness
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache 
• Dry mouth
• Slurred speech
• Weakness
• Oversleeping
• Impaired cognitive function
• Isolation
• Neglecting school or work
• Isolation
• Legal consequences
• Lying about use

Xanax abuse also occurs in combination with other substances like alcohol and opioids. The dangers of Xanax abuse when mixing these substances can be severe. It can lead to respiratory distress, coma, and potentially death. These symptoms will vary from person to person, and based on usage of the substance. The warning signs of Xanax abuse can help loved ones to identify there is a problem before it is too late.

Xanax Withdrawal

Xanax withdrawal can be a dangerous process. Going through it without professional monitoring and help can lead to severe complications. Xanax withdrawal refers to symptoms that can begin to occur as a result of abruptly stopping use of this substance. The symptoms of Xanax withdrawal will vary from person to person and can include symptoms such as anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, tremors, and an increased heart rate.

In some, more severe, cases there may be symptoms of hallucinations, seizures and delirium. In order to manage these symptoms and prevent complications, it is crucial to seek professional help. Stopping use of this substance cold turkey can be extremely dangerous and lead to life-threatening complications. Medical supervision and guidance as this process is done is highly suggested to ensure safety and make the process more comfortable.

Going cold turkey is not suggested, a person should properly be tapered off this drug to manage withdrawal symptoms properly and prevent complications. In conjunction with supportive therapies and counseling, medically being supervised can help to ensure proper detox and a solid foundation to begin recovery from Xanax abuse and addiction.

Xanax Detox

Undergoing professionally monitored Xanax detox is highly suggested for those who are struggling with this substance. Detox from Xanax can be dangerous, and trying to do so alone can lead to life-threatening complications. Professional detox is available to help ensure not only safety but also comfort. Managing the symptoms associated with detox from Xanax can be beneficial to someone who is struggling. 

During the process of detox, a person can be medically monitored, symptoms can be addressed, and healing can begin. Therapies employed during addiction treatment are beneficial to learning positive and healthy coping skills to help live daily life without turning to this substance to cope.

Recovery from Xanax abuse and addiction is possible, and Enlightened Recovery can help. Having proper professional help can be the most beneficial thing someone could do to help along with the process. Building a solid and positive foundation is crucial to building and maintaining a life in recovery. 

Living Without Xanax

Xanax is an extremely dangerous and highly addictive drug. Those who struggle with this substance can experience some drastic changes in their life. Addiction to Xanax can be life-altering and lead to loss of family relationships, jobs, and it can affect overall health and well-being.

If you or a loved one are struggling with Xanax, help is available. At Enlightened Recovery our team of trained professionals can help as you begin the journey from Xanax addiction into recovery from Xanax addiction.

Call us today and begin your journey.