How Dangerous is Xanax Withdrawal?

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Xanax is in the benzodiazepine family of medications. Benzodiazepines are prescribed for the symptoms of anxiety and panic disorders. Xanax is a fast acting medication that is meant to be used for panic attacks.

Xanax, like other benzodiazepines, can cause physical dependence. Xanax withdrawal can be fatal. When taken as prescribed, Xanax induces a calming effect in the brain. During a panic attack, the quick, calming qualities of Xanax is highly effective.

Unfortunately, Xanax abuse is on the rise. Xanax ,when combined with alcohol, can be fatal. Xanax taken in excess can also lead to hospitalization and death. You don’t have to have a history of addiction to become dependent, but addiction can increase the risk of dependency. Xanax is physically addicting, so you may become dependent and not be aware. Anxiety disorders are distressing and Xanax can treat them. If you are prescribed Xanax, do not take more than the prescribed dosage.

Abruptly stopping Xanax can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Do not abruptly stop taking Xanax without seeking medical assistance.

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

  • Shaking
  • Convulsions
  • Delirium Tremens
  • Depression with suicidal ideation
  • Intense feeling of dread
  • Coma
  • Sweating
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Changes in body temperature
  • Death

If you are prescribed Xanax, even lowering the dose on your own can lead to:

  • Mood changes
  • Poor sleep quality
  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Increased anxiety
  • Increased blood pressure

There are alternative medications to Xanax, so consult with your doctor about other options. If you think that you have signs of dependency or withdrawal, talk with your provider safely adjusting your dose or tapering off of the medication. Don’t make any changes to your medication on your own.

If you do not have a prescription for Xanax and have been taking it on your own, you need medical detox to safely withdraw. Medical detox may taper you from Xanax, making sure that you don’t have a seizure or have other medical complications. Look for a treatment center that specializes in Benzodiazepine dependency.

Xanax withdrawal can last several months. However, the initial danger of seizure or death should last about 7-10 days. The first three days of withdrawal has the highest risk of seizure. The long term withdrawal can include heightened anxiety, irritability, cravings, sleep issues, and mood changes.

Xanax withdrawal can be dangerous. Seek medical assistance or hospitalization for detox. You may want to enter an inpatient or outpatient treatment program after detox to learn coping skills that help with anxiety and prevent relapse.

The Kimberly Center offers the best in partial care programming for the treatment of addictions and co-occurring disorders. Providing a variety of treatment services with love and compassion, our clinical team serves to help clients heal mind, body, and spirit. Call us today for information: 855-4-KCENTER

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