Xanax Abuse

The drug Xanax belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which act on the central nervous system. Xanax is a depressant used to combat anxiety disorders, acute stress, and panic attacks. However, like most drugs in its class, it is also highly addictive and frequently abused. Xanax abuse is particularly difficult to treat because, when it is withdrawn, it can trigger the panic attacks it was designed to prevent, and create deep emotional bereavement in the addict.

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Xanax is a mild tranquilizer, similar in effect to alcohol, and like every other drug in its class, can be lethal when combined with alcohol or other drugs. Accidental abuse stems from taking the drug in greater dosages or for longer than recommended. In the United States, Xanax may not be legally prescribed for longer than eight weeks.

Unfortunately, Xanax abuse is not limited to people who obtained the drug legally and now have a problem with it. “Xanie-popping” has become quite the sport of choice for the party crowd, who use it get high and obtain it from street drug dealers rather than the pharmacy. Used in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs, it provides a potent “hit” in any of a dozen illicit drug cocktails. Taken by itself, it serves as a potent insulator against the world, inducing a dreamy “floating” feeling along with an inability to concentrate, memory loss, and sleepiness. For the escapist, Xanax works well.

For those wishing to reconnect with reality, Xanax abuse is best treated through a qualified drug treatment program or drug rehab center specializing in Xanax abuse and similar problems. Withdrawal from Xanax triggers a variety of symptoms in exact opposition to its own effects: anxiety, elevated heart rate, insomnia, irritability, and shakiness. True abusers might be taking as many as 20 or 30 pills a day. Such elevated levels of the drug can lead to seizures and convulsions if the user suddenly stops taking it. Quite aside from such potentially life-threatening results of Xanax stoppage, the other withdrawal symptoms are often severe enough to discourage people from trying to wean themselves off it. In addition, the emotional dependency is unusually high with Xanax, creating still another roadblock to recovery.

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A drug treatment center, staffed with professionals whose specialty lies in recognizing and treating drug abuse and all its attendant problems, is best equipped to deal with the severe panic attacks and other symptoms of Xanax withdrawal. Through careful medication and counseling, a drug rehab center is able to manage the addict’s pain and distress, and deal with the underlying emotional problems that led to the addiction. A really well-rounded drug treatment program will ensure that the addict is given long-term emotional support and help with modifying his or behavior to control cravings and prevent a return to the self-destructive behavior that led to the Xanax abuse.

Xanax addiction is a real and widespread problem that should not be dealt with at home. Drug rehabilitation for Xanax will likely be the best chance at kicking this particular habit forever.