Over the past few decades, Xanax has exploded in popularity. Highly potent and easily accessible, Xanax has addicted many Americans and created misery for their loved ones. However, as Xanax continues to gain popularity through pop culture, there has never been a better time to learn the facts and discover just how dangerous Xanax addiction can be. Consequently, knowing its effects, its chemical makeup, and its risks just might save a life.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, a fast-acting tranquilizer that produces sedative effects in users. In other words, Xanax is taken to treat anxiety and promote calm.
Chemically, Xanax falls under the classification of a triazolobenzodiazepine, a benzodiazepine that has been fused with a triazole ring. As such, Xanax has highly addictive properties. Many users who become addicted to or begin misusing Xanax start off with legitimate prescriptions.
During the short duration that a legitimate prescription may last, many people find themselves already addicted. As such, they quickly seek out illicit methods of attaining more of the drug. Typically prescribed for anxiety and sleep issues, the body rapidly becomes accustomed to the effects of Xanax. By latching onto these new chemicals, the body develops a dependency over time. Therefore, knowing the dangers of Xanax misuse can be the first step in winning your freedom back from addiction.
Is Xanax Dangerous?
In short, Xanax is highly addictive and extremely dangerous. Additionally, this can make the effects of Xanax unpredictable from person to person, especially in users new to the benzodiazepines classification of drugs. To be sure, benzodiazepines are infamous for their addictive nature and are well known for abuse.
After becoming accustomed to the presence of Xanax, the body may become fully reliant on the drug. As a result, there can often be intense and sometimes life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. In addition, even a few days or weeks of Xanax misuse can be enough to have repercussions.
Side Effects of Xanax
The side effects of Xanax can be wide-ranging and often depend on various factors. Amount taken, the duration of use, and personal factors all play a role in determining the intensity of side effects. Still, even short term use can result in dangerous effects on the mind and body.
Long-term use generally results in even more intense effects. Moreover, long-term use increases the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms. Above all, the known side effects of Xanax manifest themselves in two categories: physical and mental.
Mental Side Effects
The mental side effects of Xanax can be wide-ranging in both severity and longevity. They include but are not limited to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Confusion
- Lack of enthusiasm
- Nervousness
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
Physical Side Effects
Like the mental side effects of Xanax, the physical side effects too can be wide-ranging in severity and longevity. Physical side effects of Xanax include but are not limited to:
- Palpitations
- Diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Headache
- Muscle twitching
- Weight changes
- Drowsiness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
Using Xanax over the long term can lead to some terrifying withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms include but are not limited to:
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Mood swings
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Aggression
- Seizures
- Tremors
Xanax Addiction
Xanax addiction can ruin a person’s life but there is hope. When experiencing addiction, it is always easier to go through the withdrawal process with a proper support system behind you.
However, finding the appropriate detox and drug addiction treatment can make all the difference when going through the process of withdrawal. Consequently, solo withdrawal is never recommended, as it can be a dangerous endeavor that often leads to either relapse or tragedy. By seeking out the proper support system, one can surround themselves with experienced individuals.
Treat Xanax Addiction in Orange County
With locations throughout Orange County, Ocean Hills Recovery provides a tranquil environment conducive to healing. In conclusion, there has never been a better time to take back your freedom from dependency. Contact us today, and take the first steps in your individual recovery journey.
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