Understanding the Negative Effects of Xanax

Know the Risks and Side Effects of Xanax 

As with any prescription medication, Xanax comes with certain risks and side effects. Since this doctor-prescribed medication is in the benzodiazepine family, the schedule IV drug holds the potential for Xanax abuse, leading to Xanax addiction. The drug will affect everyone slightly differently as we are all unique persons who are uniquely genetically composed. While some individuals will experience one side effect, another individual may not.  

Some of the most common side effects of Xanax are: 

• Slurred speech 
• Lack of coordination 
• Drowsiness 
• Dizziness 
• Trouble remember things 
• Hard time concentrating 

If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction, call WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab today at 877.969.1993 to learn how we can help.

What Is Xanax? 

Xanax, an antianxiety medication, is sold under the generic brand, Alprazolam and is a depressant that helps relieve generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), insomnia, and panic disorders. It is a type of tranquilizer that is short-acting and can have calming effects. Xanax is a controlled substance approved by the FDA in 1981 and is now the most widely prescribed psychiatric drug in the United States.  

By lessening the heightened excitement that occurs in those prescribed Xanax, individuals may experience a sense of calmness that they may otherwise have not been able to achieve.  

How Xanax Use Becomes Xanax Abuse and Addiction 

Xanax abuse can quickly become an addiction if the drug is not taken as prescribed. When individuals increase their dose and ‘abuse’ the medication, they are putting themselves at an increased risk of Xanax addiction. 

If an individual combines other medications with Xanax, such as alcohol, they may experience adverse effects and become increasingly dependent on the drug. If they do not take Xanax and begin to feel the impact of withdrawal set in, chances are they are on a slippery slope toward addiction. The best way to avoid falling into the grips of addiction is to address Xanax abuse as soon as you realize a problem. 

Effects of Xanax on the Brain 

Xanax works by increasing the chemical flow in the brain that is responsible for feeling relaxed and calm. Unfortunately, there are adverse side effects of Xanax, such as memory loss, disrupted thinking, and losing your train of thought. 

Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms 

If you do not wean or taper yourself off Xanax, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. Some of the physical withdrawal symptoms that may be experienced if you suddenly stop taking Xanax are: 

•  Loss of appetite 
• Sweating 
• Headaches 
• Tremors 
• Paranoia 
• Heart palpitations  
• Panic 
• Diarrhea 
• Sensitivity to sounds and light 

Xanax and the Risk of Seizures 

Studies have found that the absence and abrupt cessation of Xanax can induce grand mal seizures in specific individuals. For those who have been taking benzodiazepines for an extended period, it is advised that they gradually wean themselves off of Xanax to allow the body and brain to adjust to the lessened dosage. 

Going ‘cold turkey’ can have extremely adverse effects and can put the body into a state of distress. If you have been taking Xanax for a long time, you may experience more intense withdrawal, and side effects as your body have built up a tolerance for the medication and therefore is depending on a steady flow of the drug. Experiencing seizures is a side effect of Xanax withdrawal and can also induce psychotic episodes in some.

Treatment for Xanax Addiction at WhiteSands  

For those struggling with an addiction to Xanax, WhiteSands Alcohol and Drug Rehab offers customized drug rehab programs to help you make a full recovery. Get in touch with our medical team today and learn how treatment can help you make a full and lasting recovery. Prescription drug addiction is just as dangerous as illicit drug addiction and requires treatment facilities and specialists to overcome successfully. 

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.