Last Updated on March 26, 2018 by Inspire Malibu
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam and is part of the benzodiazepine (benzo) drug class. Becoming addicted to Xanax is quite easy so much so that those taking it for non-medical purposes can become addicted to it after 2 weeks. Xanax is usually taken at regular intervals to counterbalance its short half-life.
What are Common Street Names for Xanax?
- Footballs
- Bars
- Zannies
- School
- Sticks
- Skateboards
- Peaches
How Does Xanax Addiction Occur?
Xanax is prescribed to people who require treatment for panic attacks. In some cases, it is also prescribed to people suffering from agoraphobia, a fear of leaving home or being around other people in open places. Xanax generates a relaxed feeling, slowing everything down.
Overlooking the ease of addiction, most individuals who take Xanax do so for extended periods of time ignoring warnings and mostly enhancing the dosage.
After a while, as the body adapts to a specific dosage, relaxation and other feelings are lowered, and eventually a majority of abusers start taking more and more over time so as to keep up with the effects.
Simply put, benzos like Xanax are no longer effective after a few weeks or even months of frequent use.
Over a period of time, the body becomes used to a medication like Xanax and when consumed for more than two weeks, Xanax withdrawal symptoms are commonly reported when use is completed. Ultimately, Xanax leads to minor or no effect when it comes to the “tranquil high” of early usage, and continued abuse is done to prevent withdrawal symptoms more than anything else.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
As mentioned, Xanax is a lethal drug that when suddenly quit, can lead to many serious and life-threatening health problems, from risk of seizures to respiratory depression. Be it memory loss or depression, prolonged use of benzodiazepines like Xanax can cause a number of physical and psychological issues. It is essential that withdrawal is carried out under proper medical supervision.
Some of the withdrawal effects of Xanax include:
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
- Strange delusions
- Visions
People who are able to withdraw from drugs like Xanax notice brighter colors, have a positive outlook and a clearer mind.
Related:
Fentanyl Hits the Streets Disguised as Xanax and Norco
Benzodiazepine Addiction Treatment
Inspire Malibu is the premier Non 12 Step, drug, alcohol, and detox treatment center in Malibu California led by board certified addiction specialist Dr. Matthew Torrington, MD. Our state-of-the-art treatment program combines the latest scientific research with proven, evidence-based therapies to address both alcohol and substance abuse successfully.
Inspire Malibu is Joint Commission (JCAHO) accredited and has been designated a Higher Level of Care from the Department of Health Care Services. We are also uniquely qualified to address dual diagnosis disorders.
