Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is a medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. Benzos produce a calming sensation because they act on the central nervous system. As a result, prescribed Xanax is commonly given to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders.
However, just like any substance abuse disorder, this drug can be extremely addictive, especially if used for several months or longer. Learn the symptoms and signs to look for that could indicate a Xanax addiction.
8 Symptoms of a Xanax Addiction
There are many signs of Xanax abuse, as well as with other prescription drugs, which can include (but are not limited to) the below list. These signs and symptoms of abusing Xanax can range from physical symptoms to emotional and psychological symptoms.
1. Cravings
People with a Xanax addiction often experience very strong cravings throughout the day for the drug. The cravings might even make it difficult for them to function and perform daily tasks.
2. Increased Tolerance
It’s common over time for individuals to build a tolerance to Xanax, needing more of the drug to feel the same effects as when they first started taking it.
3. Taking More Than Prescribed
Someone with an addiction to Xanax might take higher doses of the drug than prescribed by the doctor or might take the drug more often than prescribed.
4. Visiting Multiple Doctors
By visiting multiple doctors, a person might try to get more than one prescription for Xanax so that they can take higher amounts of the drug each day.
5. Experiencing Dependency
As an addiction builds, the body can become more dependent on Xanax to function. Performing regular daily chores or tasks might feel more difficult to do without the drug in the system.
6. Neglecting Responsibilities
Avoiding work, not picking children up from school, and missing appointments are just a few examples of the many ways a person struggling with a Xanax addiction can neglect responsibilities. Using Xanax can become the most important thing in their life.
7. Psychological and Physical Effects
It’s common for a person addicted to Xanax to begin to experience issues such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, memory problems, blurred vision, slurred speech, and depression. It can also cause serious changes in behavior and mental health, including severe mood swings.
Xanax abuse is dangerous and can quickly take over a person’s life, having negative impacts on their health, relationships, work, and much more. Luckily, if you or someone you love is addicted to Xanax, treatment is available that includes detox and inpatient rehab.
8. Withdrawal Symptoms
Experiencing Xanax withdrawal when not taking the drug, even for a short period of time, is often a sign of an addiction.
Many people falsely believe that drug addiction cannot occur from Xanax or other prescribed medications, but this is not true. Addictions can easily form from prescription drugs since many of these drugs are extremely powerful (including Xanax).
Get Xanax Addiction Treatment Today
While an addiction to Xanax is serious, treatment is available to help you or someone you love overcome the addiction and live a healthy, sober life. Enlight Treatment Center in Ventura, California provides effective therapies and treatment options that enable clients to fully concentrate on solving their addiction issues and regain hope and optimism about their future. In addition to inpatient rehab programs, we offer medication-assisted detox and dual diagnosis treatment.
If you or a loved one has a drug or alcohol addiction, we are here to help.
