Xanax

Xanax, trade name alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, moderate to severe stress, agoraphobia and premenstrual syndrome. This class of drugs is used to reduce “normal excitement in the brain” which impacts the extreme fear and worry one feels with anxiety and/or panic disorders. It is found in tablet or liquid form. Higher doses can lead to addiction. A person addicted to Xanax must be weaned off of the drug.

Symptoms and Signs of Xanax Abuse

Drowsiness
Dizziness
Impaired coordination
Fatigue
Slurred speech
Impaired Memory Function
Change in Sex Drive
Irritability
Aggression
Twitching
Problems Concentrating

Some severe reactions to Xanax abuse are swelling of the mouth, face, lips or tongue, confusion, blistered skin, seizures, suicidal thoughts, and yellowing of the eyes.

Cost to Society from Xanax Abuse
Abuse of Xanax in combination with other drugs and/or alcohol can lead to depressed respiratory function and death. Debate about the efficacy of the drug after a period of time exists. There are some who believe that the drug loses its impact fairly quickly which will lead to a “rebound anxiety”. Unfortunately, a large percentage of Xanax users are also addicted to other drugs increasing the likelihood of overdose or death. Finances, careers, family life can be destroyed due to prescription drug addiction.

Signs of Xanax Withdrawal
The withdrawal process for Xanax can be painful, as it may be accompanied by severe psychological and physiological symptoms and rebound anxiety. Withdrawal symptoms include:

Seizures
Uncontrollable Shaking
Headache
Blurred Vision
Insomnia
Sweating
Depression
Irritability
Aggressive Behavior
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Pain
Numbness
Decrease in Appetite
Weight Loss

A decrease in dosage along with other medication may be necessary to lessen the withdrawal symptoms. This is best done in a detox that specializes in addiction withdrawals. Addiction certified physicians, nurses, and clinicians understand the physiological and psychological characteristics of Xanax withdrawal. Detox does not solve the problem of addictive behavior, for that reason, it is necessary to move directly from detox to a drug addiction treatment program.

Slang Terms for Xanax
Bars, White Ladders, Zanners, Zannie Bars, Zannies