Xanax Abuse

Xanax, a mild tranquilizer most often used to treat anxiety disorders, stress, and panic attacks, is highly effective but carries an equally high risk of abuse. It belongs to the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which act upon the central nervous system. Their depressant qualities are useful in treating pain or anxiety, but they also can produce an intense euphoric “rush.” Xanax taken by itself produces a dreamy, detached state that some people crave as insulation against life. Xanax taken in conjunction with other drugs produces a potent hit that makes it a favorite at illegal raves and parties where getting high is the main objective.

The hazards of Xanax have long been recognized. It is not legal to prescribe Xanax in the United States for longer than eight weeks at a time, as abuse often stems for taking the drug for longer than recommended. Along with the floaty feeling its users crave, it also induces memory loss, sleepiness, and an inability to concentrate that leads to degradation in work performance and an inability to operate machinery or perform complex tasks.

Xanax abuse is particularly difficult to treat. Withdrawal from Xanax triggers a variety of symptoms in exact opposition to its own effects: anxiety, elevated heart rate, insomnia, irritability, and shakiness. It can trigger the panic attacks it was designed to prevent, and addicts can experience a deep emotional bereavement when it is withdrawn, a psychiatric problem that must be treated along with the physical addiction. Because hard-core abusers might take as many as 20 or 30 pills a day, the elevated levels of Xanax in their bodies can lead to seizures and convulsions if abruptly withdrawn.

A drug detox center or similar rehabilitation facility is best equipped to deal with the severe panic attacks and other symptoms of Xanax withdrawal. Professional medical supervision is a requirement, and a well-rounded staff experienced in treating Xanax abuse is an addict’s best choice for getting the right kind of help. Inpatient care for the more severe symptoms of withdrawal may be required, and residential care in any case may be the best choice for dealing with the long-term emotional fallout caused by removing this crutch the addict has been using to get through life. An inpatient setting removes the Xanax addict from the stressors that led to the prescription in the first place, whether work, family, or a general inability to cope. Counseling will help the addict learn to deal with life without drugs, and to modify the behavior that led to the addiction.

“Xanie-popping” is only fun until the inevitable crash—or until you wake up one morning and discover you can’t live without it. Then it becomes Xanax abuse. Get help as soon as possible, and make sure it comes from a professional drug treatment center, not from well-meaning friends who think you can kick it on willpower alone. That’s not going to happen. Find a drug detox center that specializes in Xanax addiction and do it right.