The Side Effects of Xanax
Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication that is prescribed for anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Xanax belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which work by depressing the central nervous system. While Xanax can be helpful for some people in managing their symptoms, it can also cause a number of side effects. Additionally, long-term use of Xanax can lead to dependence and addiction. If you are taking Xanax and experiencing any side effects, be sure to speak with your doctor.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine, which is a class of drugs that act on your nervous system to produce a calming effect. Xanax works by increasing the activity of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This increases the overall level of relaxation in the brain and helps to reduce anxiety.
Xanax is typically prescribed by doctors to be taken as needed. In certain cases, doctors may prescribe it to be taken on a regular basis. The effects of Xanax should start to work within 15 minutes to an hour. Xanax effects can last for up to six hours.
Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine, which is a class of drugs that act on your nervous system to produce a calming effect. Xanax works by increasing the activity of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. This increases the overall level of relaxation in the brain and helps to reduce anxiety.
Xanax is typically prescribed by doctors to be taken as needed. In certain cases, doctors may prescribe it to be taken on a regular basis. The effects of Xanax should start to work within 15 minutes to an hour. Xanax effects can last for up to six hours.
Xanax is available as an:
- Oral tablet – The most common form
- Oral solution – A liquid form taken with a dropper or a spray under your tongue
- Extended-release oral tablet – Dissolves in your mouth without water
The oral solution of Xanax is for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms, while the extended-release tablet is for long-term treatment. Whichever form you take, it’s important to follow the directions on the label carefully to avoid any adverse effects.
Xanax is also available as the generic drug alprazolam. Generic drugs are typically cheaper than brand-name drugs. Other brand names for alprazolam include Niravam, Gabazolamine-05, and Xanax XR.
Xanax is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA. It may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. It should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction
People with generalized anxiety disorder aren’t typically prescribed Xanax. Doctors will often prescribe anti-anxiety medications called SSRIs and SNRIs. These types of medication are not addictive.
What Are the Side Effects of Xanax?
As with all medications, there are some potential side effects of Xanax. There is no way to tell if or what Xanax side effects you will have. It depends on things like:
- How do you tolerate the drug
- Your physical makeup
- Your age
Some potential side effects of Xanax include:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Constipation
- Headache
- Trouble sleeping
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Weight gain/loss
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Memory impairment
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Panic attacks
- Hallucinations
- Psychosis
How Does Xanax Work?
Benzodiazepines like Xanax work by binding to receptors in the brain. They then increase the activity of a neurotransmitter called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). This action calms the nervous system, which is why benzodiazepines effectively treat anxiety and panic disorders.
Xanax is unique from other benzodiazepines because it has a rapid onset of action. This means that it begins working very quickly after you take it. For most people, the effects of Xanax are felt within 15 minutes of taking the medication.
The downside to this rapid onset of action is that it also makes Xanax more likely to be abused. Because the effects of the drug are felt so quickly, people who abuse Xanax often take it more frequently than prescribed to maintain the desired effect. This can lead to tolerance, dependency, and addiction.
What Are the Dangers of Xanax Abuse?
The abuse of Xanax can lead to several dangers, including addiction and overdose. Xanax is a powerful sedative that can be addictive, and it’s easy to take too much of it. Symptoms of overdose can include:
- Trouble breathing
- Bluish skin
- Coma
- Seizures
- Death
Dangers of Xanax abuse include:
- Addiction
- Overdose
- Respiratory depression
- Seizures
- Coma
- Death
Withdrawal from Xanax can also be dangerous. You should never attempt to quit taking Xanax without a healthcare provider who can help you through the process and provide emergency medical care if necessary.
Who Shouldn't Take Xanax?
While Xanax can be an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders, it is not suitable for everyone. People with impaired liver function or who are taking certain other medications are at increased risk of side effects of alprazolam. In addition, pregnant women and nursing mothers should avoid taking the drug.
Xanax can be habit-forming, so it’s important to use it only as directed by a doctor. People with a history of substance abuse may be more likely to misuse Xanax, so they should avoid the drug as well.
Overall, Xanax can be a helpful tool for managing anxiety, but it is important to understand the potential risks before starting treatment.
Why Is Xanax Addictive?
Xanax is prescribed to millions of people each year. It is one of the most abused prescription drugs in the U.S. One of the main reasons Xanax is so addictive is that it produces feelings of pleasure and relaxation. When you take Xanax, you may feel a sense of euphoria as the drug binds to GABA receptors in your brain. This sometimes leads people to take higher doses of the drug to achieve the same feeling. Over time this can lead to tolerance, mental and physical dependence, and addiction.
Another reason Xanax is so addictive is that it’s readily available. Because it’s a prescription medication, it’s easy for people to get their hands on it even if they don’t have a legitimate need for it. And because it’s so potent, it doesn’t take much to produce feelings of intoxication. This combination of factors makes it all too easy for people to fall into the trap of misuse and addiction.
Dangerous Drug Interactions with Xanax
Xanax has the potential for dangerous interactions with other medications and alcohol. Taking Xanax with other drugs that also depress the central nervous system can cause drowsiness, slowed heart rate, and even coma. It is important to consult with your doctor before taking Xanax if you are currently taking any other medications.
Xanax interactions may include:
Alcohol: Dangerous interactions between Xanax and alcohol can occur. Mixing the two substances can lead to serious side effects like respiratory depression, coma, and even death.
Benzodiazepines: Taking Xanax with other benzodiazepines can increase the risk of adverse effects. These include drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion.
Opioids: Xanax may increase the effects of opioids like morphine and oxycodone. This can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death.
Signs of Xanax Abuse
If you’re taking Xanax without a prescription or in any way other than as prescribed by a doctor, you’re abusing it.
Signs of Xanax abuse include:
- Increase your doses of alprazolam without talking with your doctor
- Taking Xanax without a prescription
- Drinking alcohol or other drugs with Xanax
- Feeling like you need Xanax to function or feel normal
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking Xanax
- Unintentional weight changes
- Impulsive behavior
- Mood swings
- Behaving aggressively
- Trouble concentrating
- Doctor shopping to get multiple prescriptions
- Continuing to use Xanax despite negative consequences
What Are Some Alternatives to Xanax?
Some people find relief from anxiety with non-medical options such as exercise, meditation, or therapy. Others may need prescription medication to help them manage their symptoms. There are many different types of medications available to treat anxiety other than Xanax.
Non-Addictive Anti-Anxiety Medications vs. Xanax
For people who are looking for a non-addictive alternative to Xanax, there are several non-addictive anti-anxiety medications available. These medications typically work by affecting the brain chemicals that are involved in anxiety, and they have been shown to effectively reduce symptoms without the risks associated with Xanax.
Non-addictive anti-anxiety medications vs. Xanax may include:
- Buspirone
- Beta blockers (atenolol, bisoprolol, metoprolol)
- Clonidine
- Gabapentin
- Hydroxyzine
- Lamotrigine
- SSRIs (fluoxetine, paroxetine, sertraline)
It is important to speak with your doctor before suddenly stopping Xanax. Xanax withdrawal requires medical attention and supervision. Some people will require medical detox in a treatment center to safely withdraw from Xanax. A healthcare provider can provide the safest taper schedule and administer medications to ease withdrawal symptoms.
Think You Have a Xanax Problem?
If you think you have a problem with Xanax, reach out to Vogue Recovery Center for help. We can provide you with the resources and support you need to overcome your addiction. Vogue offers evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Treatment plans are tailored to your unique needs and preferences, so your experience is relevant and engaging.
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8629021/
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/018276s045lbl.pdf
- https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/drug-scheduling
- https://ps.psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ps.201800321
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5846112/#:~:text=One%20study%20reported%20that%
20of,despite%20a%20taper%20over%204 - https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538165/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29848078/
Medically Reviewed by Vaun Williams, Psy.D., LPC
