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While Xanax is sometimes prescribed for longer than a few weeks to manage certain anxiety disorders, prolonged use can lead to a rebound of anxiety symptoms when the drug is eventually stopped. Additionally, contacting different treatment centers to see how they can help and what kinds of treatments they offer is also useful. Persons with Xanax addiction, or their family members, can also connect with other individuals who overcame this problem and learn more about the treatment center where they received treatment.
But as the body grows more accustomed to the drug and its effects, these side effects begin to disappear. When they do, it is likely that a Xanax tolerance has already developed. Users with a tolerance or dependency will need to take more Xanax to achieve its calming effects, and will struggle to function throughout the day without its aid. Aftercare is also an important part of Xanax addiction treatment, as it provides support and resources for long-term sobriety. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for help.
Xanax Addiction: Symptoms, Signs and Side Effects
If you bring it up to them and they deny that it is a thing, you may need to think about staging an intervention or seeking professional help or advice. They may even start dealing Xanax or doing illegal favors to just make sure that they get their dose of Xanax. The legal trouble may start with small offenses and then it may escalate. They may also not be hanging out with other people; they could be spending more time with themselves and keeping those secrets. If you noticed that your loved one is being secretive, this could be another one of the Xanax addiction signs. The drug will start to take over their thoughts and behaviors.
While abuse is thought to be less severe than addiction, in reality, long-term abuse of controlled drugs can be equally harmful to your health. Long-term Xanax abuse affects the brain’s chemical systems and functions, resulting in psychological addiction. The xanax addiction mind will compulsively drive the user to return to the drug and use becomes the all-consuming priority in an addict’s life. While many cases of Xanax addiction occur as a result of poly-substance abuse, dependence is rising in those without prior history.
Xanax (alprazolam) Addiction Treatment at Riverside Recovery of Tampa
And some experts believe it could also have more serious consequences. Other symptoms of an overdose could include extreme drowsiness, confusion, loss of coordination, or loss of consciousness. Some of these same symptoms may also present in the case of an overdose, which may make an overdose difficult to recognize. But since overdosing on Xanax can be lethal, it’s important to pay close attention to the signs. According to the National Institutes of Health, more severe, although rare, side effects can also include confusion, shortness of breath, hallucinations, speech or memory problems, depression, or other mood changes.
When individuals abuse Xanax recreationally, they still have some control over their drug use and their lives. It’s easier to detect when an individual has an addiction because they will need it to function regularly. Once they are no longer in control of their drug use, it can be viewed in all aspects of their life. When it comes to the physical Xanax effects, the last physical sign could be an individual taking too much Xanax. It can also be a sign that the addict is going through Xanax withdrawal. This is especially common when it comes to addicts who enjoy snorting Xanax.
How Xanax Addiction Changes Your Life
If you notice that you or someone you know are experiencing any of the above signs, you should seek help promptly to curb the developing or already formed Xanax addiction. You will find your loved one spending a https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/why-alcohol-makes-you-feel-hot-and-sweat-after-drinking/ lot of money to obtain the drug, even when short of money. If the addiction is not treated early enough, they might even start using unscrupulous ways to get the drug, such as stealing or selling possessions.
- Many young adults today feel that tranquilizers such as Xanax are harmless.
- They could even express the desire to hurt themselves or end their life.
- Xanax use can cause tremors, but this is not a normal or common side effect.
- While many cases of Xanax addiction occur as a result of poly-substance abuse, dependence is rising in those without prior history.
- The Xanax abuser might also begin to lose interest in their normal daily activities.
Confrontation-style interventions may lead to shame, anger, or social withdrawal. In some cases, a nonthreatening conversation is a better option. The first step is to identify any misconceptions you might have about addiction.
With repeated use, it is possible for a person to become addicted to the drug, and a Xanax addiction has the potential to cause enormous and widespread devastation in a person’s life. Thankfully, however, treatment options are available to help individuals overcome a Xanax addiction. The main purpose of rehabilitation is to help a person start their recovery in a safe manner. An addicted individual shouldn’t quit taking Xanax cold turkey because this move can cause serious withdrawal symptoms such as aches and pains, anxiety, aggression, dizziness, paranoia, difficulty breathing, and tremors. Rehabilitation starts with a medically supervised detoxification or tapering program during which they slowly wean off the medication. The inpatient rehabilitation program is suitable for persons with moderate to severe addiction, whereas an outpatient program is useful for individuals with mild addiction.
Does Xanax release a lot of dopamine?
Xanax changes brain chemistry by releasing higher amounts of dopamine. This neurotransmitter affects how we feel pleasure. Increased dopamine from Xanax use increases the feeling of reward by the drug's use. This can intensify a person's desire to use more often and consume higher amounts each time.