David Rofofsky | March 30, 2021

Side Effects of Xanax Everyone Should Be Aware Of

Understanding the Risks of Using Xanax

Xanax is one of the most widely and easily prescribed drugs in the United States. Most commonly, it is used for situational anxiety, such as fear of flying, because it is straightforward to obtain. It’s easy to abuse Xanax, and it can present many mental and physical health risks when taken long-term.

What Is Xanax?

Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family. Benzodiazepines produce a calming effect, reducing nervous tension and anxiety. It is not recommended to use it for more than six weeks. It is an oral medication prescribed by a medical doctor, and dosage depends on medical condition, age, and response to treatment. It is a great option for people in acute distress, but it is not intended for long-term use. It is possible to develop a Xanax addiction quickly.

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Side Effects of Xanax

Side effects often occur at the beginning of therapy. Common ones include:

  • Drowsiness and tiredness
  • Dizziness
  • Poor balance or coordination and muscle weakness
  • Memory problems and trouble concentrating
  • Sleep problems
  • Low energy
  • Irritability
  • Slurred speech
  • Digestive issues like diarrhea, constipation, nausea, vomiting, and upset stomach
  • Increased sweating
  • Hand or feet swelling
  • Headaches
  • Blurred vision
  • Appetite or weight changes
  • Decreased libido
  • Anxiety, depression, and fear

How Xanax Use Can Lead to Xanax Abuse and Addiction

Addiction to Xanax can happen to anyone, even those who have never abused drugs before. Those suffering from anxiety or panic disorders usually look for relief, and a medical professional may prescribe the medication.

The user feels a significant improvement in their symptoms and assumes using more of the drug will produce a more substantial effect, leading to misuse. Others may use it for too long and do not realize they are dependent on it until it is too late.

When people try to decrease their dose, they end up experience withdrawal symptoms. Depending on the quantity and how often it was used, the withdrawal experience can range from uncomfortable to genuinely unpleasant to being medically serious. Some of the withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Increased anxiety and depression
  • Nervousness
  • Insomnia
  • Tremors and muscle spasms
  • Hallucinations and delirium
  • Panic attacks
  • Racing Pulse
  • Hyperventilation

These symptoms appear within eight to 12 hours from the last dose. It is important to taper down the dose to avoid intense withdrawal symptoms. They are generally worst on the second day and start to improve on the fourth or fifth day.

Long-Term Effects of Xanax

Long-term abuse of Xanax can cause the brain to forget how to operate without it. It leads to dependency, damage to brain cells, depression, turbulent mood swings, speech impediments, and cognitive issues such as confusion, extreme forgetfulness, and trouble concentrating.

Effects of Xanax on the Brain

Benzodiazepines can cause the brain to malfunction in sections that control coordination, causing speech problems and balance issues. The drug changes how the brain operates and is known to lower inhibitions, cause forgetfulness, increased irritability, depression, suicidal ideation, confusion, and hallucinations. There is also a link between the use of the drug and dementia.

Xanax and Seizures

The most dangerous withdrawal symptom from the substance is seizures. Some benzodiazepines are used to treat seizures, so stopping them can bring on an episode. It can happen to people who take it in high doses or for long periods. Users may need medical detox to stop prolonged use.

Xanax Addiction Treatment at Muse

Muse Treatment Center features a medical facility in California providing addiction treatment for Xanax and other prescription drugs. It is vital to seek treatment as soon as possible to receive medical care during the detox process. Our outstanding treatment center offers individualized holistic care. We provide a dual diagnosis approach that can help treat anxiety or panic disorder that led to Xanax dependence. If you or a loved one needs help to stop using Xanax, do not hesitate to contact Muse treatment today at (800) 426-1818.

Xanax Addiction,Xanax Rehab,
David Rofofsky
David Rofofsky
After growing up in New York, David chose to get help with substance abuse in California because of the state's reputation for top-tier treatment. There, he found the treatment he needed to achieve more than nine years of recovery. He's been in the drug and alcohol addiction rehab industry for eight years and now serves as the Director of Admissions for Resurgence Behavioral Health. David remains passionate about the field because he understands how hard it is to pick up the phone and ask for help. However, once the call is made, someone's life can be saved.


Research | Editorial
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