Xanax Addiction Effects, Signs, & Symptoms

Learn about Xanax addiction

Xanax is a central nervous system depressant that belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. This class of drugs is prescribed by physicians to alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and panic disorder. When used properly, Xanax can bring individuals suffering with anxiety a sense of relief, however it is also an extremely addictive substance. Xanax affects the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which causes a calming effect by slowing down your brain activity. When taken, Xanax binds to the GABA receptors located in the brain and prevents GABA from being absorbed.

Xanax is extremely fast acting, its effects usually occur within twenty minutes and peak within an hour. The effects of Xanax usually last about four hours, slowly declining after reaching its peak. One of the reasons this substance is so addictive is that when the calming feelings wear off, anxiety may return, and an individual will reach for another pill to keep the anxiety at bay. The fast onset, limited time of effectiveness, and frequently increased dosage due to deceasing effects can cause addition problems and Xanax dependency.

Xanax addiction statistics

Research estimates the 12-month prevalence rates for benzodiazepines at approximately 11%. Of those who use the substance, it was estimated that 80% use it for 4 months or less, 5% use it for 4-12 months and 15% use it for more than year. Gender difference for the use and abuse of Xanax were also found. It was estimated that twice as many women use benzodiazepines as men.

Causes and risk factors for Xanax addiction

It’s thought that addiction is the result of a number of factors working simultaneously to produce the addiction. The most common causes for Xanax addiction include:

Genetic: It has been shown that substance abuse problems like Xanax addiction runs in families. In particular, individuals who have a first-degree relative with a substance abuse disorder are more likely to develop problems with substances later in life.

Brain Chemistry: GABA is neurotransmitter in the brain that has a naturally tranquilizing effect on mood and physiological tension. When levels of GABA are abnormally low, people may become anxious which Xanax helps alleviate. After being exposed to the calming effects produce by this benzo, people may continue to take the drug in order to avoid experiencing anxiety. This continued use can eventually lead to tolerance, addiction, and dependency.

Environment: Some research suggests that individuals who develop a benzodiazepine addiction have inadequate coping mechanisms for dealing with stress. These ineffective coping strategies are a result of modeling the behavior of parents and other important individuals in their life. When close relatives use benzodiazepines to cope with stress, children grow up without learning proper coping methods. Thus, when stress becomes overwhelming they are more likely to turn to Xanax.

Signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction

The symptoms of Xanax abuse will vary among individuals based upon genetic makeup, frequency of use, and length of abuse.

Symptoms of Xanax use disorder include:

Mood symptoms:

• Euphoria
• Hostility
• Aggression
• Rage
• Agitation

Behavioral symptoms:

• Missing work
• Memory problems
• Avoidance of social activities

Physical symptoms:

• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dizziness
• Impaired coordination
• Twitches
• Hyperactivity
• Tremors
• Restlessness

Psychological symptoms:

• Depressed mood
• Mania

Effects of Xanax addiction

There is a long list of difficulties that can occur as the result of Xanax addiction. These consequences can seriously impact a person’s life. Physical, psychological, and social aspects of life can all suffer. Some of the effects can include:

• Hallucinations
• Weight fluctuations
• Impaired reflexes
• Memory problems
• Loss of career
• Loss of family
• Ruined friendships
• Financial problems
• Social isolation

Withdrawal effects of Xanax addiction

When an individual who has become physically dependent on Xanax abruptly stops taking the medication it can cause a number of unpleasant side effects. These withdrawal symptoms are similar to those for the other benzodiazepines. The severity of the withdrawal symptoms are linked to the length of use, dosage strength and frequency, additional substance abuse, and the manner in which the dosage is reduce. Withdrawal from Xanax should be done in a medically-monitored rehab program because there is a chance of death caused by withdrawal convulsions.

Some of these symptoms may include:

• Increased anxiety
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Dissociation
• Shaking
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Twitching
• Nausea and vomiting
• Death

Xanax addiction and co-occurring disorders

Substance abuse disorders frequently occur with additional mental health illnesses. Often individuals will use substances like Xanax to self-medicate the symptoms of an undiagnosed or undertreated disorder. Some disorder that co-occur with Xanax abuse include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Additional substance abuse disorders
• Major depressive disorder
• Dysthymia
• Bipolar disorder
• Personality disorders
• Conduct disorder
• PTSD