Xanax is a prescription drug that is used to treat panic attacks and anxiety symptoms, but what starts as a helpful tool can become an escapist, addictive vice. Xanax can have dangerous mental and physical side effects when used excessively or for reasons outside of those prescribed by a doctor.
Xanax addiction treatment through Sovereign Health helps patients regain control of their lives with a combination of thorough detox services and the modern treatment modalities to best set a person up for success and real recovery.
Alprazolam, known to laymen as Xanax, is perhaps the most popularly prescribed benzodiazepine. It was designed to alleviate anxiety, insomnia and panic disorders. Xanax and related benzodiazepines also contain sedative, hypnotic and anticonvulsant properties. Benzodiazepines in the same family as Xanax include Clobazam (Onfi), Chordiazepoxide (Librium), Clonazepam (Klonopin), Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan), Temazepam (Restoril), and Triazolam (Halcion). Those who use benzodiazepines – also called benzos – are extremely vulnerable to addiction.
Some of the common side effects of Xanax abuse include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Drowsiness, dizziness and sedation
- Dry mouth or throat
- Headache
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Loss of interest in sex
- Memory problems
- Slurred speech, confusion, lack of focus or coordination
- Swollen hands or feet
- Tremors
- Upset stomach, nausea or vomiting
Xanax and other benzos can cause changes to the brain over time. Tolerance is also built up with long-term use, which makes these medications less effective and subsequently requiring higher or more frequent dosages.
Patients prescribed the drug can progress into a degree of tolerance and even dependence. Uncontrollable cravings are the trademark of any addiction. These cravings spur addicts to go to extremes to obtain the drug of choice, such as illegal activity and risky behaviors.
Some of the other common symptoms displayed by an individual addicted to Xanax include:
- Doctor shopping to get more of the drug than standard allotments.
- Disguising pills in another container.
- Explaining away pill-popping habits.
- Frequent doctor appointments.