Xanax Addiction is a growing addiction in the United States and is especially popular among the “twenty-something” club hoppers that are just looking to party and get high.  Popularly known as “Xannie Poppers,” they are often used in combination with other drugs such as cocaine or alcohol.  While Xanax is a Schedule IV drug with a low potential for abuse or physical and psychological dependence, when it is used with other drugs or alcohol, it can present a whole new list of risks.

Xanax is a central nervous system depressant that is generally prescribed to treat moderate cases of anxiety, panic attacks, and panic disorders.  It is from the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is usually only prescribed short-term since anything over 8 weeks usually begins to present a risk of addiction.  With Xanax Addiction, a user will begin to build a tolerance for the drug.  When one’s tolerance increases, they will usually have to increase the dose taken to achieve the same effects as the times before.  As dosage is increased, the risk of physical and psychological dependence increases as well as the risk of overdose.  Any situation involving overdose is a potentially fatal situation and emergency medical help should be sought immediately.  The signs and symptoms of overdose of Xanax include, but are not limited to, Extreme drowsiness, Confusion, Muscle weakness, Loss of balance or coordination, Feeling light-headed, Fainting, or Coma.

Ironically the withdrawal effects of Xanax are the complete opposite of the sedative-like therapeutic effects.  The short-acting benzodiazepines in Xanax can cause the withdrawal effects to be especially severe.  Some of the signs and symptoms of withdrawal include Rapid heartbeat and/or High blood pressure, Depression, Loss of appetite, Detachment, Ringing in the ears, and Nightmares, Psychoses, or Delusions. It is always important to remember that withdrawal and detox are personal experiences that may differ with each person.  Some may have more symptoms than others and the strength of the symptoms may also vary based on the severity of the addiction.

Xanax Addiction is a serious and sometimes life threatening illness that needs to be treated as such.  The first step toward recovery is admitting that there is a problem.  This is the first of many hurdles an addict will face.  Recovery and detox is not something that should ever be done alone.  We are here to help you & your loved ones get on the road to recovery.