Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine drug that was originally created in 1976. This drug is normally prescribed as an anticonvulsant, anti-anxiety, or sedative. Many people take Xanax for legitimate conditions like panic disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. Unfortunately, there are Xanax side effects like restlessness and addiction.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a medication that improves the efficacy of certain neurotransmitters, reducing feelings of anxiety and depression. Because it is a depressant, it can also help those who are suffering from insomnia. However, while this medication can be highly beneficial for a short period of time, most doctors do not prescribe it for extended periods. Over time, many people begin developing a tolerance toward this medication. As a result, they need a higher dose to get the same effect. Tolerance is often an indication that someone has developed an addiction.
Xanax Side Effects
Xanax side effects include long-term and short-term effects. In fact, the immediate effects of the drug generally last for six hours or more. In the short run, patients may experience side effects like restlessness, feelings of unease, cognitive problems, or slurred speech. Furthermore, they may also suffer from disorientation.
While the previous side effects are the most common, other effects show up as well. So, patients may experience weight changes, dry mouth, drowsiness, problems urinating, and constipation. They may suffer from dizziness, headaches, skin rashes, or fatigue. Even worse, in severe cases, patients may develop shortness of breath or seizures.
Signs of Xanax Overdose
It’s important to only use Xanax as a doctor prescribes. If you begin using this drug in higher doses or get it from illegitimate sellers, you may put yourself in danger of accidental overdose.
Unfortunately, Xanax side effects can be severe if someone uses more than prescribed. When someone overdoses, they may have symptoms such as:
- Weakness
- Blurred vision
- Respiratory depression
- Slurred speech
- Coma
If you take Xanax and alcohol or other drugs at the same time, an overdose is even more likely. Xanax is a very dangerous drug to mix with any other medication, prescribed, legal or illegal.
Long-Term Effects of Xanax
Consequently, if individuals develop a Xanax addiction, they may experience other side effects. Long-term Xanax abuse leads to symptoms like cognitive problems, depression, and psychotic experiences. Individuals may suffer from delirious states, aggression, and impulsive behavior.
Xanax side effects and abuse also cause memory impairment. This makes paying attention and focusing extremely difficult. In some cases, individuals also suffer from sedation states that last for up to four days. However, like many drugs, Xanax can cause chemical dependency and addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe, including anxiety or panic attacks and heart palpitations. For this reason, it is important to detox under medical supervision.
Getting Help for an Addiction
Xanax can be an incredibly helpful medication for a short period of time. However, the longer you use it, the higher the risk for addiction to develop. Fortunately, at Serenity House Detox Florida, we can support those battling Xanax addiction through our Xanax detox centers. If necessary, we can also provide dual diagnosis treatment to help you manage your anxiety.
Once someone develops a physical dependence on Xanax, they need professional care to recover. At a professional treatment center, patients get help through customized treatment programs, including:
- Medically supervised detox
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy
- Nutritional and medical support
Recovering from Xanax side effects and addiction is never easy, but the right help can make a difference.
Seek Support at Serenity House Detox Florida
Xanax addiction doesn’t have to rule your life. At Serenity House Detox Florida, we’re committed to helping our clients overcome their addictions. To that end, we offer a wide range of treatment options, including:
- Residential detox programs
- Medical detox programs
- Holistic detox programs
- Addiction therapy programs
- Dual diagnosis treatment programs
If you or a loved one suffers from a Xanax addiction, detox support is available. To find out how you can begin your journey toward sobriety, call Serenity House Detox now at 866.294.5306.
