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Xanax and Xanax Abuse

  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Modified:
  • Reading Time: 6 minutes
  • Reviewed by: Dr. Carl Williams, Ph.D., LCADC
  • Last Update:
  • Reading Time: 6 minutes

Learn about the risks and effects of Xanax abuse, including statistics and symptoms.

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Understanding Xanax Usage Trends

Xanax Statistics

Since the approval of Xanax in 1970 for treating panic disorder, the drug has gone ahead to treat other mental conditions such as anxiety, depression, chemotherapy, and other health problems. Xanax is a schedule IV benzodiazepine and has a low potential for abuse.

However, in 2013 alone, 10.3% of people aged between 18 and 25 doubled the number of 26+-year-olds who abused Xanax. Both psychological and physical dependency characterizes Xanax addiction. 

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The Role of Xanax in Treatment

What is Xanax?

Xanax is part of benzodiazepines that affect the central nervous system by producing sedative effects. It is manufactured in the form of tablets.

Doctors prescribe benzodiazepines for short periods, usually weeks or months, to reduce the risk of addiction.

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Navigating the Challenges of Xanax Dependency

Xanax Addiction

Medical caregivers prescribe Xanax to treat insomnia, panic disorders, and generalized panic disorder (GAD). Xanax poses significant concerns as abusing Xanax for extended periods becomes highly addictive. Teens make up most people who use Xanax, with 70% getting the drug from their family’s medicine cabinets.

A user becomes addicted fast and uses a higher dosage of Xanax because the body develops tolerance quickly. Medical examiners report users taking up to 20 or 30 pills of Xanax daily; this poses life-threatening withdrawal symptoms once they cease taking Xanax. The onset of withdrawal symptoms usually means the body has developed a tolerance to the drug, indicating addiction. Other withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, anxiety, tremors, or insomnia.

Behavioral symptoms of Xanax addiction include:

  • Continuing to use Xanax, even if it contributes to personal difficulties.

  • Inability to quit Xanax when you have a desire to.

  • Constant thoughts of getting and using Xanax.

  • Xanax causes legal problems.

  • Risk-taking behaviors, like driving after using Xanax.

  • Failure to control Xanax consumption.

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Identifying the Telltale Signs of Xanax Misuse

Symptoms of Xanax Abuse

The most common signs and symptoms of Xanax are addiction and physical dependence. These natural body processes stem from the body and brain habituating to the drug over time. The body demands more when you cease using the medicine, leading to withdrawal symptoms.

The following are physical signs and symptoms associated with taking large amounts of Xanax:

  • Slurred speech.

  • Confusion.

  • Drowsiness.

  • Difficulty breathing.

  • Dizziness.

  • Weakness.

  • Inhibition of motor coordination.

  • Coma.

  • Blurred vision.

  • Muscle pain.

  • Heart palpitations.

  • Nausea.

  • Sleep troubles.

  • Sweating.

  • Tingling sensations.

  • Vomiting.

Xanax also causes psychological effects such as:

  • Anxiety.

  • Concentration difficulties.

  • Depression.

  • Hallucinations.

  • Insomnia.

  • Memory problems.

  • Mood swings.

  • Nightmares.

  • Suicidal thinking.

  • Psychosis.

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Impact of Xanax on Behavior and Relationships

Behavioral Side Effects of Xanax

  • Losing interest in usual activities.

  • Risk-taking behaviors.

  • Maintaining stashes of Xanax.

  • Relationship problems: Using a lot of Xanax.

  • Obsessive thoughts and actions.

  • Run-ins with the law.

  • Solitude and secrecy.

  • Financial difficulties.

  • Denial.

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Seeking the Ideal Treatment Path for Xanax Recovery

The right treatment center plays a significant role in recovering your loved one. Hence, find one that specifically caters to the needs of your loved one. Though detox is hard and rehabilitation scary, the suitable facility knows how to care for its patients, for instance, by providing medications for severe withdrawal symptoms.

Do not worry about how hard or uncomfortable the journey is; you only have to take the first step and let the rest fall in place. You might want a support group that will help you through device techniques to help you from relapsing.

Written By:

Geoffrey Andaria

Geoffrey Andaria mental health writer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Mental Health Writer

About Author:

Geoffrey Andaria is an experienced mental health content writer and editor. With a B.A. in English and Journalism, Geoffrey is highly educated in freelance articles and research. Having taken courses on social work, Geoffrey is adamant about providing valuable and educational information to individuals affected by mental health and the disease of addiction.

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Carl Williams Ph.D., LCADC

Carl Williams, medical content reviewer at rolling hills recovery center
Rolling Hills Recovery Center

Expert Contributor

About Reviewer:

Dr. Williams presently serves on the board of Directors for two non-profit service organizations. He holds a Master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University, Philadelphia, Pa, and a Ph.D. with a concentration in Clinical Psychology from Union Institute and University. In Cincinnati, Ohio. He is licensed to practice addictions counseling in both New Jersey and Connecticut and has a pending application as a practicing Psychologist in New Jersey.

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