If you or a loved one needs help managing anxiety, you might take Xanax, classified as a benzodiazepine. Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, which is associated with potential addiction risk. You may use it exactly as prescribed and still grow dependent on it. What are short and long-term Xanax effects, and how do you know if your use has turned into a problem?
Common Xanax Effects
Doctors prescribe Xanax to help their patients manage panic or anxiety. The beneficial effects of the drug include a reduction in tension and restlessness. Someone who takes Xanax may feel calmer and more relaxed.
For a person who abuses the drug, however, the effects are more pronounced, due to its depressant qualities. They may seem confused or drowsy. They might also have more headaches than usual and have trouble remembering things.
Do you have dizzy spells? Do you often feel sluggish? These are other effects of Xanax abuse. The longer you abuse the drug, the higher the chances you’ll grow dependent on it.
Xanax Dependency and Addiction
Although Xanax is a prescription medication, some people become physically and psychologically dependent on its effects. Their tolerance builds, so they take more of the drug to feel the same way. This tolerance and dependence often lead to Xanax addiction.
Over time, they may suffer more severe Xanax effects, such as unusual mood changes, depression, and seizures. As with other substances, Xanax abuse and addiction may cause people to miss work or family obligations. They’ll gradually spend more of their time and resources buying and using the drug.
Once their doctor stops refilling their prescription, they’ll look for a new one. This action is called “doctor shopping,” and it can be dangerous as well as illegal. Financial and legal troubles may follow.
If you think that a loved one is abusing Xanax, it’s imperative to provide support and encouragement, to convince them to enter rehab. If you’re the one dealing with Xanax dependency, help is available from a high-quality drug and alcohol addiction treatment center.
You Can Start Over
Addiction doesn’t have to be the end. When you make the important decision to get treatment, it can be a new beginning.
Morningside Recovery can help you make a fresh start. Our detox and residential treatment center accepts men and women from Orange County, California and beyond. We’re a pet-friendly, family-owned rehab facility.
The addiction treatment services we offer include:
- Alcohol addiction treatment
- Benzodiazepine addiction treatment
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Heroin addiction treatment
- Opioid addiction treatment
There’s a better future waiting for you if you’ll take a step toward it. Don’t let Xanax effects keep you from living your best life. Call us at 855-631-2135 for more information. We’ll start you on the path to long-term sobriety and a lifetime of better choices.