However, the medicine can also be misused and can cause a more serious withdrawal syndrome than other benzos. Because of its addictive properties, Xanax can be a real problem for individuals with a history of substance use disorder.
When the misuse develops into a full-blown addiction, it is hard to quit. That’s where a rehab program can help. Here is what Xanax addiction does to the body. Including ways how to spot it.
What Makes Xanax Addictive?
Xanax is a fast-acting medication. Meaning it takes the product a very short time to cause some notable changes in the brain. This highly addictive drug is considered a risk in people who take 4 mg/day doses for an extended period of time or over 12 weeks. Those that abuse the drug can be vulnerable to addiction. (2)
Recreational use without a prescription is known to trigger a feeling of calmness. Compared to similar products, like cocaine for example, that creates a euphoric feeling or “high”, Xanax is different. It stimulates feelings of tiredness, quiet, and relaxation.
As a result, users can fall asleep or pass out for a couple of hours. Those who’ve abused the drug and taken higher doses tend to blackout or experience memory loss. The higher the dose, the stronger its impact. This is what makes Xanax addictive.
How To Recognize Xanax Addiction?
Individuals who take higher doses of this psychotropic medication, or for recreational purposes, can develop signs and symptoms of Xanax abuse. That includes:
- Being unable to curb Xanax intake
- Blurry vision or slurry speech
- Drowsiness and reduced motor coordination
- Withdrawal due to a lack of dose
Users need a long time to recover from Xanax abuse. When in desperate need of another dose, they tend to ask colleagues, classmates, friends, or family members if they have a Xanax pill. Without access to the drug, they tend to buy a replacement sedative on the street. (3)
Behavioral Signs Of Xanax Abuse
Other than the physical signs of Xanax addiction and abuse, the drug can take a toll on the user’s behavior. The ongoing desire for another dose can be so fixating, that users can have problems meeting certain obligations and expectations. Especially in areas of education, work, or at home.
They may try to buy Xanax by any means necessary. That’s why many people develop behavioral signs, which could pinpoint that an individual has been taking too much Xanax.
- Problems in a relationship: For someone who has abused Xanax, interpersonal issues can occur. Like prioritizing their needs before others, blaming people for their own actions and addiction, ignoring someone’s help, etc.
- Keeping a stash of Xanax at hand: Addiction creates a pattern. To make sure that their supply doesn’t run out, users buy more products and stockpile them.
- Doing things that put them or other people in danger: Such as driving after using Xanax, feeling comfortable taking unnecessary risks, continuing to abuse the drug in an unsafe environment, etc.
- Having their financial resources depleted: Stocking up on Xanax is very expensive. Many users drain their financial resources just to restock.
- Getting stuck in a cycle of denial: Not everyone is willing to accept that they have an addiction problem that needs treatment. So, they tend to deny or ignore the problem to keep using.
- Not being interested in activities they used to find entertaining: As the Xanax addiction takes its hold, it’s normal for users to lose interest in regular activities.
How Withdrawal Is Like For Xanax Users in Indianapolis, IN?
Signs of withdrawal and dependence are well-known among Xanax users. People who stop taking Xanax suddenly can have severe withdrawal symptoms. That’s why, when used as a prescription, doctors will gradually decrease the dose, so the patient can stop taking it. A medically supervised Xanax detox and addiction treatment in Indianapolis, IN, like Addiction Rehab Centers can help you start your life over. Free from the addiction Xanax.
But, when there is a dependency, the Xanax withdrawal is more profound. It could lead to insomnia, anxiety, and convulsions or seizure. Non-medical use can easily cause a problem. If you or anyone in your family has developed a Xanax addiction, it’s critical to talk to a specialist. Discontinuing Xanax use takes careful planning and precautions.
Treating the addiction means targeting the drug on two fronts: psychological cravings and physical compulsion. Xanax withdrawal can be uncomfortable and painful, but with a proper Xanax detox and addiction treatment in Indianapolis, IN, you can wean off Xanax. Appropriate expert Xanax addiction treatment in Indianapolis, IN, can keep the withdrawal signs at bay.
