Xanax, the brand name of the drug alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. While it can help those struggling with these conditions get through or minimize the severity of anxiety and panic attacks, the drug also carries a potential for misuse. Xanax abuse can be harmful to your physical and mental health, so it is essential that you understand the side effects of Xanax and how to recognize and get help for Xanax addiction.

Whether accessing Xanax through a valid doctor’s prescription or illicitly, you can become dependent on the medication. If you suspect that you or someone you know is abusing Xanax, contact Promises at 17135283709 for guidance. Our Xanax addiction treatment program can help you get a handle on Xanax abuse and learn safer ways to manage anxiety and panic disorders.

Signs of Xanax Abuse

As a central nervous system depressant, Xanax and other benzodiazepines slow your body’s functions, resulting in a greater sense of calm and relaxation. If you see someone using Xanax as prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders, you may notice that they move a little more slowly or seem a bit sedated. However, the effects should not be intense to the point of them falling asleep or slurring their words. The drug is simply meant to calm their anxiety symptoms so they can function in daily life.

When someone is engaging in Xanax abuse, the effects will be much more extreme and noticeable. Some common signs of Xanax abuse are:

• Excessive drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Impaired coordination
• Stumbling and unsteadiness
• Impaired memory
• Confusion
• Inability to concentrate
• Hallucinations

The severity of these symptoms will depend on the dosage of Xanax used and the person’s tolerance to the drug. If you notice the above signs in another person, chances are they took more Xanax than advised by their doctor—a primary example of Xanax abuse—and could be headed toward addiction.

Long-Term Effects of Xanax Abuse

Chronic Xanax abuse can introduce a wide range of health problems, ranging from mildly bothersome to severe or life-threatening. Some potential risks of misusing the Xanax long-term include:

Physical Health Complications

Abusing Xanax for years can lead to respiratory problems, weight fluctuations, reduced libido, weakened immune system, and liver damage.

Mental Health Concerns

Long-term Xanax abuse can trigger or worsen mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, mood disorders, and even an increased risk of suicidal ideations.

Dependence and Addiction

Prolonged Xanax abuse can increase your tolerance, requiring larger doses for the same relaxing effects. Eventually, you can become dependent on the medication to help you feel calm and balanced. And without it, you might start experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms.

Overcoming Xanax Addiction

If you find yourself struggling to moderate your Xanax use, it is possible you may have developed an addiction. Enrolling in an addiction treatment program can help address Xanax abuse through:

• Supervision and guidance from addiction treatment professionals
• Gradual tapering of Xanax to minimize withdrawal symptoms
• Individual and group therapy to help address the underlying causes of addiction and teach healthy coping mechanisms
• Support from your care team and peers in recovery
• Alternative therapies like meditation, acupuncture, art, music, and nature therapy to help manage stressors

Addiction treatment programs can also introduce you to healthy lifestyle changes to improve your mental and physical health while you work toward recovery. Incorporating regular exercise, practicing stress reduction techniques, and maintaining a balanced diet can all help bring you closer to your recovery goals.

Get Help for Xanax Addiction by Calling Promises Today

When you start noticing Xanax side effects, it is time to consider whether your medication is doing more harm than good for you. Promises Behavioral Health can help you come off Xanax more comfortably and teach you the tools you need to manage anxiety and panic disorder without becoming dependent on benzodiazepines. To discuss our treatment options for Xanax addiction, reach out at 17135283709.