Xanax Addiction and its Long-Term Effects 

May 1, 2023 | Rehab

Benzodiazepines are effective prescription medications belonging to the Schedule IV category of drugs. Among them is a common drug named Xanax. It is a prescription drug given to patients suffering from anxiety and panic disorders. Though Xanax is believed to have a lower potential for damage, it is still addictive. 

Many users in the US begin to consume Xanax as a medication but fail to discontinue the prescription. This mainly happens due to the euphoric effects the drug produces. Some users even try to attain it illegally to feed their Xanax addiction. You can learn more about the drug and its addiction in this blog below. 

What is Xanax?

As mentioned above, Xanax is a prescription drug for disorders like anxiety and panic. It is a nervous system depressant that helps in calming down the patient during an anxiety or panic attack. This same effect of the drug is also what leads the users to abuse it. 

Xanax also produces a certain high or a feeling of unreality that amuses the users. This detachment from reality and other pleasurable feelings is what causes dependency. Fulfilling the need for Xanax, the user then develops an addiction. 

Effects of Extended Xanax Use 

Besides addiction, a few other effects of long-term use of Xanax include 

  • Confusion 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Impaired cognitive function 
  • Tolerance of the drug 

These effects can then worsen and begin to deteriorate a user’s mental and physical health. Therefore, it is always advised to quit the drug on time. 

Statistics for Xanax Abuse 

A shocking study presented by the Central for Disease Control and Prevention shows that deaths due to prescription drugs have outnumbered other causes of death like traffic fatalities. In fact, prescription drugs are seen to kill more people than illegal drugs. 

Research conducted in 2015 concludes that prescription drug abuse ranks higher in the chart after marijuana and alcohol. More such shocking numbers prove that prescription drug abuse is rising with each day passing by. 

Xanax Detox and Withdrawal 

Considering the numbers showing a rise in Xanax addiction, the only solution to the problem is Xanax detox. However, quitting the drug cold turkey has its consequences. Therefore, it is suggested to gradually reduce the dosage. 

If not followed, one can experience withdrawal symptoms like: 

  • Insomnia 
  • Seizures 
  • Fatigue 
  • Sweating 
  • Light-headedness 
  • Headaches 
  • Nausea and vomiting 

These symptoms surely seem scary but there’s a way to handle them too. You can attend a specialized Xanax detox program at Taylor Recovery. We are located in Houston, Texas, and offer an elaborate and safe detox program for Xanax and other drugs. Our program assures that you experience the least discomfort during detox and withdrawal. Thus, join us now and begin your journey toward sobriety today!