Side Effects of Xanax Abuse and Risk Factors for Developing a Xanax Addiction
Xanax
Xanax is the brand name for the medication Alprazolam. Physical dependence and addiction to this medication are possible, as they are with many other prescribed drugs. Individual differences in how quickly or slowly Xanax may become habit-forming also play a significant role. Benzodiazepine overdose rates have been on the rise in recent years, and benzodiazepine drugs like alprazolam have been linked to a disproportionately high number of fatal overdoses. Xanax overdose is a major problem that often leads to deaths. The risk of Xanax overdose increases twice fold when mixed with another substance.
Minor Side Effects of Xanax Abuse
The Food and Drug Administration authorized the use of Xanax in the management of anxiety disorders. In its benzodiazepine form, it calms the brain by making neurons less excitable. This helps in temporarily decreasing anxiety, physical tension, and restlessness. However, Xanax is not without its risks.
Common minor side effects of abusing Xanax include:
- Weight gain or loss.
- Dry skin.
- Skin cracks.
- Changes in appetite (both decreases and increases).
- Alteration in sexual desire.
- Abdominal cramps.
Get in touch with your medical professional immediately if you are experiencing any of these effects.
Major Side Effects of Xanax Abuse
Even when used as directed, Xanax may still have significant adverse effects on some people. If you suffer any of the following side effects, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your doctor immediately, as they may indicate a more serious medical problem:
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Sleeplessness
- Seizures
- Depression
- Hallucinations
Xanax Addiction Risk Factors
Not all people who use Xanax end up becoming addicted to it. An individual’s risk for addiction might be raised by their own characteristics and by their own usage history. Factors that increase the likelihood of becoming dependent on alprazolam are:
- Family history of addiction.
- A personal or familial history of mental health issues.
- Personal body biochemistry and metabolism
- Early childhood trauma and stress.
- Peer pressure.
- Environmental factors.
These are just a handful of the many possible risk factors that might put a person at a higher risk of being addicted. If you hang around with drug abusers, you’re more likely to start consuming substances yourself.
Seek Professional Addiction Treatment at Taylor Recovery
Beating an addiction is a challenging process that requires courage and patience. Although Xanax is an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders, it is highly addictive. Those who abuse Xanax should get help for their condition before it worsens. Individuals who try to stop without assistance may be risking their lives. Seeking help is vital since Xanax withdrawal may cause severe and sometimes fatal symptoms. Taylor Recovery Center is an addiction treatment center in Houston, Texas, that has dealt with lots of Xanax addiction cases. Please speak with one of our addiction professionals now if you have questions about which treatment alternatives may be most appropriate for your needs. Please allow us to aid you in conquering your Xanax addiction.