What Is Xanax?
Xanax, or alprazolam, is a short-acting benzodiazepine prescribed by doctors to treat anxiety and panic disorders. When taken as directed, Xanax increases the amount of GABA receptors in the brain and decreases the level of excitement, providing relaxing effects to the mind and body. Other side effects of Xanax may include sleepiness, nausea, confusion, memory loss, poor balance, and trouble concentrating.
According to research published by StatPearls, alprazolam, “known by various trade names, is the most commonly prescribed psychotropic medication in the United States.” Xanax is often used as a bridge to treat the effects of anxiety disorder before more long-term treatments like therapy make a positive impact. Xanax is rarely prescribed for long-term use because it has high addiction and abuse potential.
Xanax Abuse
Xanax is commonly abused because of its ability to cause inhibition in higher doses. Xanax abuse occurs when an individual takes the drug for its intoxicating effects without a prescription from a medical professional. When an individual prescribed Xanax begins taking it in higher doses or not as directed, this is known as Xanax misuse.
Either of these behaviors can lead to tolerance development where an individual requires more of the drug in order to achieve the same outcome. While tolerance increases, the brain and body adjust to the presence of Xanax in the system and reacts accordingly. This is known as physical dependence.
Xanax Dependence and Withdrawal
Xanax is a central nervous system depressant, meaning it slows down brain functions to relieve symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. When a person abuses Xanax, the brain adjusts to the consistently increased level of GABA receptors. The body then becomes used to the depressive effects Xanax has on the heart, body temperature, and respiratory and muscular systems.
When abuse stops suddenly, a rebound is likely to occur where individuals may experience dangerous and harmful withdrawal symptoms that could be fatal if untreated. Even individuals prescribed Xanax must undergo a tapering-off regime if they wish to stop taking the drug.
Symptoms of withdrawal from Xanax dependence include:
- Anxiety
- Paranoia
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headaches
- Tremors
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle pain
- Seizures
Withdrawal from Xanax is more severe than withdrawal from other benzodiazepines. Symptoms may appear within hours of the last dose and continue for four to five days. Post-acute withdrawal symptoms (PAWS) have been reported to last weeks to even months after last use.
The Importance of Detox Treatment for Xanax Addiction
Quitting Xanax “cold turkey” without the supervision of a medical professional is never advised due to the dangerous physical and mental symptoms that can occur. Apart from potentially fatal seizures, clients may experience feelings of extreme paranoia or suicidal thoughts, putting them at increased risk of harming themselves or others. Even if clients only experience minor withdrawal symptoms, the discomfort can be enough to prompt relapse, which increases the likelihood of deadly overdose.
Detox treatment for Xanax dependence could save you or a loved one’s life from the dangers of withdrawal and overdose.
Receiving detox treatment in a trusted addiction rehabilitation center or medical facility where physicians are dedicated to providing next-level care is the first step to recovery from Xanax addiction. In detox, medical professionals will monitor and treat symptoms to ensure they do not become life-threatening. Through medicated-assisted treatment, 24/7 care, and addiction therapy, the body can slowly and safely rid the presence of Xanax.
Xanax Detox Treatment at Laguna Shores Recovery
A medically supervised drug detox program can prevent a client’s body and mind from rebounding too quickly. At Laguna Shores Recovery, we provide an environment where our first priority is a client’s comfort throughout detox and recovery. Our rooms are designed to make our clients feel most at home through frequent and consistent medical supervision.
If you or a loved one are considering receiving detox treatment for Xanax addiction, knowing what to expect can relieve some of the stress leading up to admission to a residential facility.
Stages of Xanax detox treatment at Laguna Shores Recovery:
1. Assessment: During this stage, our professionals learn your medical history, past withdrawal symptoms, and pattern of use. They will factor these with your age, gender, and overall health to create an individualized detox treatment plan fit for your unique needs and safety.
2. Stabilization: This refers to the process of safely removing the presence of Xanax from your body. In the tapering-off period, clients receive doses of a slower-acting benzodiazepine to prevent the risk of severe withdrawal. During this time, clients may be seen by a licensed therapist in order to address any psychological effects of withdrawal.
3. Dose Reduction Schedule: Once stabilized, clients will adhere to a schedule that gradually reduces their dose of slower-acting benzodiazepine to reach full sobriety.
4. Transition Into Residential Treatment: After detox, clients will transition into our residential rehab program. Here, they will participate in group and individual therapy and learn essential life skills and healthy coping mechanisms to prepare them for life in recovery.
Your success in recovery is our main focus and overall mission here at Laguna Shores Recovery. Even after graduation from our program, we will continue to support you and remain a beacon of hope for your journey in recovery.
Xanax addiction is a dangerous disease, and receiving treatment through detox and residential programs may save a life. Laguna Shores Recovery is licensed with DHCS and JAHCO accredited, and we are known for our highly regarded and evidence-based treatment for addiction and co-occurring disorders. Call us today to learn more about our facility at 866-934-5276.
