When used properly and instructed by a medical professional, the drug Xanax can help to significantly ease the symptoms of panic and anxiety disorders. In fact, it can even help those who struggle with these disorders to function better and live a happier, healthier life. Unfortunately, like many other prescription drugs, Xanax can also be sold illegally and abused for recreational purposes, leading to Xanax addiction and many other health problems. 

It is important to not only raise awareness regarding the dangers of Xanax misuse but how to identify the signs that someone may be struggling with Xanax addiction and/or overdose. This way, help can be called before it is too late. 

Understanding What Xanax Is

The technical name for Xanax is Alprazolam and it is among the benzodiazepines drug class. Xanax works to decrease extreme fear and worry by altering the way that the brain works. The medication helps to decrease excessive brain excitement so that the patient can calm down and experience relief. In some cases, Xanax may also be used to treat other conditions such as depression, fear of open spaces (agoraphobia), and premenstrual syndrome. 

This medication is meant to be taken orally. It will typically come as either a tablet, an extended-release tablet, a tablet that dissolves on the tongue, or as a solution to be swallowed. One should always follow the directions on the bottle when taking this medication. If it comes as a tablet, it should be taken in its original form. In other words, it should not be crushed or broken up. 

While some people can take Xanax exactly as they were instructed, they may still experience some adverse side effects. Some of these side effects could include: 

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea 
• Trouble concentrating 
• Changes in sex drive
• Constipation
• Weight changes
• Joint pain 
• Irritability

If these symptoms persist, one should always consult their doctor. Their prescription may need to be altered or changed entirely. 

Understanding Xanax Addiction

Xanax addiction is far more common than one may think, likely because of the accessibility of this drug. Young people may have to do no more than search their parent’s medicine cabinets to find this drug. In fact, Xanax addiction is particularly common in teens. People often abuse Xanax because they are trying to achieve a calm and relaxed feeling or even the sense of euphoria that occurs when one takes many doses of this medication a day. 

Some people who misuse this drug choose to crush it up and snort it so that it enters their system right away. Others mix it with other hard-core drugs such as cocaine and heroin. Still, others may use it in combination with alcohol. All of these methods increase the dangers of this drug and the likelihood that the individual will suffer serious consequences as a result. 

It is important to note that Xanax is a depressant. Thus, someone who has misused this drug is likely prone to experience effects such as slurred speech, increased levels of anxiety, and loss of coordination. This can make it extremely dangerous and difficult for them to do things like drive a car, operate machinery, or engage in any other activity that may cause danger to others. 

Recognizing the Signs of Xanax Overdose 

Xanax overdose is not only possible but could be life-threatening. While this type of overdose can look a little different from person to person, there are some primary signs to look out for: 

• Unexplained drowsiness 
• Loss of consciousness
• Confusion
• Problems with coordination 

If you believe that someone you know is experiencing a Xanax overdose, don’t wait for their symptoms to become more severe. Contact 911 right away and stay with the individual until help arrives. 

How Xanax Addiction Is Treated at The Kimberly Center

Xanax addiction is one of the many conditions that we treat at The Kimberly Center. At our facility, we begin with the detox process. We then utilize a variety of flexible outpatient treatment programs that meet the specific needs of our patients. As we know, every patient has a unique situation. The treatment program that might work well for one patient might not be the right fit for the next patient. This is why we utilize an individualized treatment program that we adjust as necessary depending on our patient’s unique situation. 

Those that enter our facility to seek help with a substance use disorder (SUD) have options when it comes to their treatment plan. We are flexible with our treatment plans in order to ensure that our patients are able to choose the right fit for their life circumstances. 

Some of the options we offer here at The Kimberly Center include:

• Intensive outpatient program
• Outpatient program
• Continuing care program
• Sober living
• Long-term treatment

Xanax is a drug that has brought relief to many individuals struggling daily with anxiety and panic disorders. However, it is unfortunately abused and misused by many individuals for the intent of recreational purposes. Xanax can be easily obtained, often as simply as opening a family member’s medicine cabinet. This drug is not only highly addictive, but it can be extremely dangerous when it is taken incorrectly. This can lead to serious health complications and even death. If you or someone you love struggles with substance use disorder, our team at The Kimberly Center can help. There is hope. Call (855) 452-3683 today to learn more about the different types of services that we offer.