Xanax is a powerful drug most often used in the treatment of anxiety, panic disorder and other related illnesses. This drug acts as a depressant to the central nervous system and, when taken as prescribed, effectively relieves symptoms that include overwhelming fear, panic-induced shortness of breath, rapid heart rate, severe nervousness and more. However, this drug is often misused and is, in fact, one of the most-abused prescription drugs in the United States.
In most cases, addiction to Xanax begins innocently enough. For example, if an individual experiences symptoms of panic disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or obsessive-compulsive behaviors, he or she may decide to see a mental health professional for a complete psychological evaluation. During this evaluation, a doctor may take into consideration the severity and frequency of symptoms, as well as their probability to interfere with daily activities. If symptoms are severe enough to warrant medication, Xanax, or its generic form, alprazolam, is often prescribed. And although Xanax is often helpful at reducing symptoms and improving quality of life, misuse occurs due to a tolerance for the drug, which can lead to the need for larger, more frequent doses in order to produce initial effects. Also, in some cases, patients seek the euphoric effects produced by Xanax and begin to take larger quantities of the drug, even when symptoms of anxiety aren't present.
Like other types of substance abuse, addiction to Xanax may be hard to detect in its initial stages. However, there are several signs that may indicate the beginnings of addiction, some of which include the following:
In severe cases of Xanax addiction, entering a substance abuse treatment facility is often recommended. Here, patients will receive proper treatment for withdrawal symptoms, as well as learn coping strategies for dealing with anxiety and other issues without the use of pharmaceutical drugs.
How Does Addiction to Xanax Occur?
In most cases, addiction to Xanax begins innocently enough. For example, if an individual experiences symptoms of panic disorder, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder or obsessive-compulsive behaviors, he or she may decide to see a mental health professional for a complete psychological evaluation. During this evaluation, a doctor may take into consideration the severity and frequency of symptoms, as well as their probability to interfere with daily activities. If symptoms are severe enough to warrant medication, Xanax, or its generic form, alprazolam, is often prescribed. And although Xanax is often helpful at reducing symptoms and improving quality of life, misuse occurs due to a tolerance for the drug, which can lead to the need for larger, more frequent doses in order to produce initial effects. Also, in some cases, patients seek the euphoric effects produced by Xanax and begin to take larger quantities of the drug, even when symptoms of anxiety aren't present.
What Are the Signs of Xanax Addiction?
Like other types of substance abuse, addiction to Xanax may be hard to detect in its initial stages. However, there are several signs that may indicate the beginnings of addiction, some of which include the following:
- Psychological cravings for the drug.
- Persisting symptoms, which could indicate an increasing tolerance.
- Using more medication that prescribed.
- Slurred speech.
- Problems with coordination or motor skills.
- Inappropriate behavior and/or loss of inhibitions.
- Black-outs or memory loss.
- Personality changes, including apathy or a drastic decrease in emotional range.
- Compulsions and preoccupations regarding Xanax. This can include excessive thoughts about the drug, as well as extreme anxieties when supply dwindles.
How Is Xanax Addiction Treated?
When addiction to Xanax is apparent, seeking treatment is recommended. Some individuals can stop using the drug suddenly without experiencing any negative side effects. Others, however, may have a difficult time discontinuing use and may experience withdrawal symptoms that include rapid heartbeat, insomnia, an increase in anxiety and panic disorder symptoms, tremors and high blood pressure. In these cases, the risk for complications such as seizure and stroke are increased; therefore, a physician should be consulted. In most cases of Xanax addiction, a tapering dose is prescribed, as well as medications used to substitute Xanax. These often include other anti-anxiety drugs that have a lower potential for abuse.In severe cases of Xanax addiction, entering a substance abuse treatment facility is often recommended. Here, patients will receive proper treatment for withdrawal symptoms, as well as learn coping strategies for dealing with anxiety and other issues without the use of pharmaceutical drugs.
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