Xanax comes under the class of drugs known as Benzodiazepines. Xanax, commonly called Alprazolam is widely used for treating and managing anxiety disorders. These prescribed medications, when taken in limited quantity for short term period as prescribed by the doctors, can be effective. But, not to forget these medications can be addictive when used in the long run and you might end up getting depended on these drugs to calm yourself.When dependent addict endeavors to stop using this drug, they will face excruciating and sometimes, severe Xanax withdrawal symptoms.
What happens when you consume Xanax?
When Xanax is ingested, it increases the activity of a neurotransmitter in the brain called GABA. This neurotransmitter slows down the pathways to communicate within the nervous system, hence resulting in the feeling of relaxation. Xanax has a short half-life period meaning that it can easily go in and out of the body. This property makes it even worse because the body will continuously demand more and more.
What is Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms?
Due to its highly addictive nature, Xanax is prescribed for short term use only. But when a user abuses this drug by taking higher doses or for a long time, it becomes dangerous. And when they stop using it, they get exposed to Xanax withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal symptoms occur a few hours after the user’s last dose. These include:
- Sweating in excess
- Panic strikes
- Aggressiveness
- Memory loss
- Hallucinations and seizures
- Poor concentration
- Sleeping problems (Insomnia)
- Depression and suicidal thoughts
- Oversensitivity
- Vomiting and nausea
- Heart tremors
- Pain in the muscles
- Rampant trembling
How long and severe the symptoms will be, depends on factors such as dose, duration of intakes, or the substance combined with this drug.
In more severe cases, the consumer/user might suffer from Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). This refers to symptoms that persist longer than they should have been. These may be difficult to identify because their occurrence will be incompatible and irregular.
Detox & Treatment
To detox from Xanax, this can be a long and time taking process. One way to get detoxed from Xanax is Cold Turkey but it is not endorsed because Xanax produces several withdrawal symptoms. The safest option is Tapering down and also the most successful way to reduce the withdrawal symptoms. This method involves getting a cut off with the drug for a period of time. A doctor may also recommend a less potent tablet to diminish use.
Detox from Xanax must be done under the supervision of doctors. Medical detox is the safest way to get clean and to avoid any complications. You can even seek help for the treatment by the recovery professionals- the sooner, the better.
