Xanax® (alprazolam) is a prescription medication used to treat symptoms of anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. Its calming properties help people feel more relaxed, alleviate nervousness, and aid sleep. However, Xanax® is a benzodiazepine (benzo) with addictive properties, which may prompt some to misuse the drug. Xanax® misuse can have a variety of short- and long-term side effects, so it is essential to know whether you or a loved one has developed an addiction and where to get help.
If you suspect you or someone you care about may be dependent on Xanax, you must get a proper diagnosis and treatment. Promises Brazos Valley will provide a thorough evaluation and comprehensive prescription drug addiction treatment at our welcoming Texas location.
Short-Term Side Effects of Xanax
Xanax® can cause short-term side effects when used to manage insomnia, anxiety, and panic attacks. Within an hour of taking Xanax®, you may experience:
- Cognitive impairment – Confusion, difficulty remembering things, and inability to concentrate
- Digestive disturbance – Loss of appetite and feeling nauseous
- Drowsiness and fatigue – Feeling sleepy and lethargic
- Dizziness – Feeling as though your head is spinning
- Impaired motor function – Loss of coordination
Since Xanax® can make you feel tired or disoriented and slow your reaction time, you should avoid taking it before driving or operating machinery.
Long-Term Side Effects of Xanax
Over an extended period, the effects of Xanax® can become more serious and possibly permanent. Chronic Xanax® use can lead to the following:
- Cognitive decline – Although Xanax® can affect memory in the short term, long-term use can cause permanent cognitive impairment.
- Emotional numbness – Some people experience a feeling of dullness or loss of responsiveness to stimuli.
- Increased risk of injuries – The more someone uses Xanax®, the more likely they are to experience an injury related to impaired motor function, such as slips and falls.
- Dependence and addiction – One of the most serious long-term side effects of Xanax® is dependence. Over time, a person may feel unable to function without it and need higher doses, leading to addiction.
- Withdrawal symptoms – If you stop using Xanax® suddenly, you may experience withdrawal symptoms like insomnia, anxiety, and irritability.
Talk to your doctor about the potential risks of using Xanax® long-term so you can work together to determine the best plan of action for your physical and emotional well-being. There are plenty of drug-free options for managing anxiety and sleep disorders, so your provider may help you transition to these methods as you gradually taper off Xanax®. However, for the sake of your safety, avoid discontinuing Xanax® without first consulting with your doctor.
Recognizing the Signs of Xanax Misuse
Xanax® misuse refers to taking the drug in a way other than prescribed by one’s doctor. Some signs that a person is misusing Xanax® are:
- Taking more pills than prescribed
- Taking Xanax more frequently than directed
- Using Xanax without a prescription
- Using Xanax when not experiencing symptoms
- Running out of Xanax long before the prescription is due to be refilled
If someone takes more extensive amounts of Xanax® than advised, you may also notice some telltale signs like slurred speech, confusion, excessive drowsiness, and an unsteady gait. Those who use Xanax® as intended may speak and move a bit more slowly since the increased gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain will slow down functions in their mind and body. But when misusing the drug, the effects will be much more pronounced.
Reach Out to Promises Brazos Valley and Start Xanax Addiction Treatment Today
Xanax® addiction can happen to anyone, even when obtaining a valid prescription to treat anxiety or panic disorders. Quitting Xanax® can be scary if you deal with severe symptoms. Still, Promises Brazos Valley can help you get through withdrawal and find safer, more effective ways to alleviate anxiety and sleeplessness. Call us at 979.426.0086 or complete our online contact form so you can enjoy a greater sense of calm and balance without the side effects of Xanax®.