Xanax belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is mostly used by individuals to manage the various symptoms of anxiety. Today, Xanax is the fifth-most prescribed drug in the United States. Millions of patients in the U.S are currently using Xanax prescription to treat symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, depression, nausea and many other medical conditions. The prescription rate of the drug has increased steadily since 2012 rising to about ten percent annually.
These drugs are usually designed for short-term use since they have a high potential for addiction. Benzodiazepines usually produce a calming effect by binding the specific sites to the corresponding GABA receptors located in the brain cells. After prolonged use, Xanax can cause severe changes to the GABA receptors in the patient’s brain making them less susceptible to stimulation.
After some time, the patient will develop tolerance to these drugs which makes them start taking more and more dosages to experience the initial effect. For individuals who have become used to the drugs, reduced consumption will automatically lead to withdrawal symptoms. It can be challenging to overcome Xanax addiction without professional Xanax addiction treatment.
Why Is Xanax Drug Addiction So Common?
One of the major reasons why Xanax addiction is common is that it is a legal prescription drug in the United States. Most people tend to see it as a less risky drug and treat it with less concern than they might approach other illegal substances such as cocaine. This perception means that certain individuals can freely take more than what is prescribed to self-medicate when they notice that the prescribed dose isn’t working to their expectation. Patients may also freely share their Xanax with family members and friends, and sometimes, they do it with a genuine desire to help them not knowing that they are aiding someone else’s addiction.
What Are the Primary Symptoms of Xanax Addiction?
Xanax is a powerful benzodiazepine and usually make significant changes in your brain over a short period. You run the risk of dependency even if you follow the prescription directions . Over time, you may develop a tolerance for Xanax and start taking higher doses to achieve the same effect. You will need to seek urgent help if you exhibit any of these signs of Xanax abuse:
The mental signs of Xanax addiction include :
- Impulsivity
- Lack of motivation
- Mood swings
- Loneliness
- Depression
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased anxiety
- Confusion
- Short-term memory loss
- Strong cravings for Xanax all the time
The physical symptoms of Xanax addiction include :
- Decreased urination
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Drowsiness
- Jaundice
- Headaches
- Stuffy nose
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Frequent fluctuations in body weight
- Slurred speech
You should also be on high alert if your loved one displays the following symptoms if they are on Xanax prescription:
- Increased need for privacy
- Frequent request for money to purchase the drug
- Claiming that they have lost their prescriptions
- Periodic sedation
- Stealing Xanax pills from others
Are you or is your loved one addicted to Xanax? Contact Pathways Real Life today for Xanax Addiction Treatment in Utah. With Pathways Real Life, you can be sure that we shall develop a personalized treatment program that suits your unique needs. Talk to us today and let us help you deal; with your Xanax addiction!
