Xanax abuse and addiction
Benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV drugs under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) and have a low potential for abuse and low risk of dependence. Yet Xanax abuse and addiction is an increasing problem.
Xanax has the ability to slow down the user’s cognitive and physical functioning and produce a wide variety of side effects, including the following:
- Impaired motor coordination
- Drowsiness, lethargy, fatigue
- Impaired thinking and memory
- Confusion
- Depression
- Altered vision
- Slurred speech, stuttering
- Vertigo
- Tremors
- Respiratory depression
- Nausea and vomiting
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Abdominal discomfort
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), alprazolam is one of the most prescribed and frequently encountered benzodiazepines in the illicit market. It can be easily obtained via internet. Those struggling with a Xanax addiction may also obtain forged prescriptions or engage in “doctor shopping.”
Once addicted to the drug, a sudden cessation of Xanax may cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, including fatigue, tremors and impaired coordination. A supervised detoxification treatment at certified Xanax detox centers can help ease the withdrawal symptoms and minimize the likelihood of a relapse.
Xanax abuse: signs and symptoms
There are various signs and symptoms that can indicate an addiction to Xanax or other drugs, hence, recognizing them is important so that timely treatment can be sought, before it gets late.
Following are some of the common signs and symptoms of Xanax abuse:
- Compulsive seeking behavior — this can be daily or even several times a day
- Feeling the need to consume more quantity of the drug to get the same effect
- Making certain to maintain a supply of the drug
- Spending money on the drug, even when it is not affordable
- Not meeting obligations and work responsibilities, or cutting back on social or recreational activities because of drug use
- Getting involved in illicit activities to obtain the drug
- Driving or doing other risky activities under the influence of the drug
- Failing to stop using the drug because of intense cravings or discomforting withdrawal symptoms
Those exhibiting these symptoms may be in need of Xanax addiction treatment.
Xanax addiction treatment
Owing to the drug’s painful withdrawal symptoms, it is often recommended to seek professional Xanax addiction treatment at certified rehab centers. A comprehensive treatment for Xanax addiction involves a medically supervised detox program followed by intense behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), individual and group therapies and experiential therapy. Seeking treatment from an expert is recommended, as that helps in facilitating a lasting recovery.