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What Are The Damaging Effects of Xanax Addiction?

Many prescription drugs can be addictive when they are misused or taken for much longer than intended. The same is true for Xanax. If your doctor writes you a prescription for Xanax, you should always take it as prescribed, or if you feel uncomfortable, seek out a second medical opinion for other medication options. Otherwise, any misuse of Xanax may result in very serious consequences.

Xanax: A Highly Addictive Anti-Anxiety Drug

Xanax is a prescription drug that is commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, some phobias, and depression. According to the Mayo Clinic, this drug is a depressant, which slows down the activity of the nervous system and brain, providing a calming effect for the user.1

Xanax is extremely addictive when used long-term, therefore it’s typically only prescribed on a short-term basis. You are much more likely to develop a dependence if you take larger doses than necessary or continue to use it longer than prescribed. You may also eventually develop a tolerance which will require you to take more of the drug to achieve the same effect. Additionally, Xanax should never be used in conjunction with other depressants such as alcohol, as this can affect heart rhythm and breathing or even be deadly.2

Unfortunately, Xanax abuse is common because many people can obtain a prescription legally from their doctor, buy it illegally from a dealer, or even forge a prescription.3

Physical Effects of Xanax Abuse

The effects of Xanax abuse are very harmful and can lead to serious medical complications. Common physical health effects of Xanax abuse may include4:

Other Consequences and Effects of Xanax Abuse

Xanax abuse and addiction affect all aspects of life, including finances, psychological health, and relationships with spouses, friends, and co-workers.

The effects of Xanax abuse are far-reaching and should be taken very seriously. Just because a drug is prescribed by a doctor does not make it safe for abuse.

Treatment Options for Xanax Addiction

If you or a loved one is addicted to Xanax, you should never attempt to stop using it on your own. Depending on the severity of the dependence, withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be very dangerous if it’s done in an unmonitored environment.2

The effects of Xanax abuse can cause a number of serious physical health problems and other problems in life. If you think you or a loved one may be addicted, the most beneficial thing you can do is seek treatment immediately. Please contact Hill Country Detox today to learn more about our individualized Xanax detox program and how it can help you begin your life of sobriety.

 

References:

  1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/alprazolam-oral-route/description/drg-20061040
  2. https://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/rrprescription.pdf
  3. https://www.dea.gov/pr/multimedia-library/publications/drug_of_abuse.pdf#page=59
  4. https://www.drugabuse.gov/drugs-abuse/commonly-abused-drugs-charts
  5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMHT0008896/?report=details
  6. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684001.html
Categories: drug addiction
Tags: xanax