Xanax abuse and addiction are growing problems across America. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, between 2004 and 2008 there was an 89% increase in emergency room visits for the non-medical use of Xanax and other sedatives. In states like Kentucky that have been particularly hard hit by prescription drug abuse, community health clinics have stopped prescribing Xanax because of the high demand for the drug and the danger of addiction.
Habit Forming and Dangerous
Xanax is a prescription tranquilizer that counteracts the effects of anxiety and stress by depressing the central nervous system. It is available by prescription only and is used to treat nervous disorders and anxiety-related conditions. Xanax is a potent, short-acting drug. Its effects are felt almost immediately but last for only a few hours, leading many users to want more of the drug and in greater amounts as their body builds up a tolerance.
Alprazolam, the generic name for Xanax, is one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs after the painkillers oxycodone and hydrocodone. When alprazolam is combined with oxycodone, hydrocone or alcohol, the results can be fatal.
Because Xanax has a high potential for addiction, it is usually only prescribed as a temporary solution for stress, anxiety and panic disorders. Unfortunately, when Xanax is obtained illegally and abused, the normal precautions related to the drug’s potency are usually ignored.
There are the some of the signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction:
• Excessive sleepiness and sleep
• Depressed heartbeat and breathing
• Difficulty concentrating
• A floating or disconnected sensation
• Memory loss and mental confusion
• Craving for the drug
In addition to the negative side effects of Xanax and the risk of overdose, there are other dangers associated with being under the influence of the drug. Xanax clouds thinking and slows reaction time, making it dangerous to driver or operate machinery. The risk of accidents is extremely high for people who are addicted to Xanax and taking it frequently throughout the day.
Because Xanax is both psychologically and physically addictive, withdrawal symptoms will be experienced when use of the drug is abruptly terminated. The withdrawal symptoms for Xanax are the opposite of its therapeutic effects, meaning that the addict will experience increased anxiety and panic.
The effects of Xanax withdrawal include:
• Insomnia and disturbed sleep
• Rapid heartbeat
Therapy is helpful for overcoming Xanax addiction
• Shaking hands
• Restless or trembling legs
• Irritability and mood swings
• Excessive sweating
• Agitation and anxiety
Many doctors who previously prescribed Xanax have switched to colonazepam, a longer-acting sedative that does not take effect as quickly and is believed to pose a decreased risk of addiction. Most mental health specialists see sedatives and tranquilizers as a short-term treatment for anxiety and stress. The goal is for patients to learn coping mechanisms through cognitive behavioral therapy and other forms of counseling and therapy.
The treatment for Xanax addiction is available and recommended. If you or someone you care about is abusing Xanax, it is highly recommended that you talk to an addiction professional.
