Xanax Addiction Treatment Program

Alprazolam, more commonly known by the popular brand name ‘Xanax,’ is among the medications used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorders. Usually taken orally, the dosage of Xanax prescribed by the doctor varies depending on a person’s age, medical condition, and response to treatment.

It is an effective treatment for these mental conditions because it produces a calming effect on the central nervous system, particularly in the brain and nerves. It is among the group of drugs called benzodiazepines that act by enhancing the effects of the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical in the body. Unfortunately, this can lead to prescription drug addiction for some individuals.

Xanax Addiction

According to Addiction Center, Xanax is one of the top medications prescribed by medical practitioners to treat psychiatric conditions, but it is also considered more potent than Valium. Because of this, there is a higher possibility of abuse for this drug since it can easily be found in the family’s medicine cabinet and it is a powerful mood enhancer.

People who use Xanax regularly often experience withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop using the medicine, the fear of which sometimes results in abuse and addiction. While it may rarely occur, abuse of Xanax may happen especially when the patient has a history of alcohol abuse or drug addiction.

“There was something oddly comforting about Xanax—the way it came in many shapes and colors, like peach and blue. I enjoyed looking at the pills. They were a pretty little assortment of happiness I could feel just by holding in my hands. Although Xanax put a temporary stop to my agony, it soon introduced a new kind.” – Former benzo addict Ashley Zlatopolsky, Salon.com

Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction

Among the most obvious signs that a person is beginning to get addicted to Xanax are physical signs including:

• Elated feeling
• Drowsiness
• Nausea
• Headache
• Excessive sleeping
• Light-headedness
• Difficulty Focusing
• Memory problems
• Sluggishness

Aside from these, there are also mental symptoms which manifest through the person’s relationships, especially with family and friends. Marital problems and financial crises are also common signs that a person may be having addictive tendencies caused by the medications he has been taking. Professionally, people with Xanax addiction often show decreased productivity due to the physical and psychological symptoms of their condition.

Aside from drug reliance, people who take Xanax for a long time also develop a heightened tolerance to the drug, making its beneficial effects less and less prominent unless the dosage is increased; this in turn increases the physical dependence and intensity of side effects.

Effects of Xanax Abuse

Negative effects may include lack of coordination, slurred speech, confusion, and disorientation. Xanax may also affect the person’s respiratory system, lowering the breathing rate, which may sometimes lead to serious injury, comatose, or even death. This effect is multiplied when used with other drugs like alcohol or opiates.

“Alone, this can be dangerous as your breathing slows, but the situation becomes more troubling when the substance is mixed with alcohol. Since they are both depressants, their combined effect could lead to serious injury, coma, or death.” -DrugAbuse.com

Xanax Abuse Treatment

Like other addicts, those who abuse Xanax should seek professional help in order to achieve the safest rehabilitation possible. The sudden halt in the intake of the medication is not advisable because of the withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures, which can be fatal.

Xanax abuse treatment depends on the person’s level of dependence on the drug. Professional rehabilitation and addiction treatment also consider the duration of the addiction and the person’s general physical health.

One of the most recommended treatment programs for Xanax addiction includes inpatient care which provides a stable and temptation-free environment for faster recovery. These treatment centers also have round-the-clock monitoring and care from the facility’s medical staff. They help the patients cope with the effects of withdrawal and are also knowledgeable in administering proper medication for detoxification symptoms and the treatment plan needed to begin long-term recovery.

Basically, treatment facilities for Xanax addicts revolve around three activities:

• Addiction Education
• Individual and group therapy sessions
• Relapse prevention skills and techniques training

Treatment for Xanax addiction may also come in outpatient clinics. This kind of addiction treatment may be chosen for patients who wish to remain in their homes where they are cared for and supported by their loved ones. The role of therapeutic services is crucial in such cases.

Whichever treatment you choose, His House will ensure you receive safe and proper care.

Call Today

Call today to learn more about His House and xanax treatment. Our comprehensive behavioral therapy options and support can help you achieve long-term recovery.