Xanax anxiety dosage
Xanax Dosage Guide - Drugs.com
Print Save Generic name: ALPRAZOLAM 0.25mg
Dosage form: tablet
Drug class: Benzodiazepines
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jan 18, 2023.
Dosage in Generalized Anxiety Disorder
The recommended starting oral dosage of XANAX for the acute treatment of patients with GAD is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg administered three times daily. Depending upon the response, the dosage may be adjusted at intervals of every 3 to 4 days. The maximum recommended dosage is 4 mg daily (in divided doses).
Use the lowest possible effective dose and frequently assess the need for continued treatment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2)].
Dosage in Panic Disorder
The recommended starting oral dosage of XANAX for the treatment of PD is 0.5 mg three times daily. Depending on the response, the dosage may be increased at intervals of every 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg per day.
Controlled trials of XANAX in the treatment of panic disorder included dosages in the range of 1 mg to 10 mg daily. The mean dosage was approximately 5 mg to 6 mg daily. Occasional patients required as much as 10 mg per day.
For patients receiving doses greater than 4 mg per day, periodic reassessment and consideration of dosage reduction is advised. In a controlled postmarketing dose-response study, patients treated with doses of XANAX greater than 4 mg per day for 3 months were able to taper to 50% of their total maintenance dose without apparent loss of clinical benefit.
The necessary duration of treatment for PD in patients responding to XANAX is unknown. After a period of extended freedom from panic attacks, a carefully supervised tapered discontinuation may be attempted, but there is evidence that this may often be difficult to accomplish without recurrence of symptoms and/or the manifestation of withdrawal phenomena [see Dosage and Administration (2.3)].
Discontinuation or Dosage Reduction of XANAX
To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue XANAX or reduce the dosage. If a patient develops withdrawal reactions, consider pausing the taper or increasing the dosage to the previous tapered dosage level. Subsequently decrease the dosage more slowly [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3), Drug Abuse and Dependence (9.3)].
Reduced the dosage by no more than 0.5 mg every 3 days. Some patients may benefit from an even more gradual discontinuation. Some patients may prove resistant to all discontinuation regimens.
In a controlled postmarketing discontinuation study of panic disorder patients which compared the recommended taper schedule with a slower taper schedule, no difference was observed between the groups in the proportion of patients who tapered to zero dose; however, the slower schedule was associated with a reduction in symptoms associated with a withdrawal syndrome.
Dosage Recommendations in Geriatric Patients
In geriatric patients, the recommended starting oral dosage of XANAX is 0.25 mg, given 2 or 3 times daily. This may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated. Geriatric patients may be especially sensitive to the effects of benzodiazepines. If adverse reactions occur at the recommended starting dosage, the dosage may be reduced [see Use in Specific Populations (8.5), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Dosage Recommendations in Patients with Hepatic Impairment
In patients with hepatic impairment, the recommended starting oral dosage of XANAX is 0.25 mg, given 2 or 3 times daily. This may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated. If adverse reactions occur at the recommended starting dose, the dosage may be reduced [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6), Clinical Pharmacology (12.3)].
Dosage Modifications for Drug Interactions
XANAX should be reduced to half of the recommended dosage when a patient is started on ritonavir and XANAX together, or when ritonavir administered to a patient treated with XANAX. Increase the XANAX dosage to the target dose after 10 to 14 days of dosing ritonavir and XANAX together. It is not necessary to reduce XANAX dose in patients who have been taking ritonavir for more than 10 to 14 days.
XANAX is contraindicated with concomitant use of all strong CYP3A inhibitors, except ritonavir [see Contraindications (4), Warnings and Precautions (5.5)].
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Medical Disclaimer
Form, Strengths, How to Take, and More
If you have certain anxiety-related conditions, your doctor might suggest Xanax as a treatment option. It’s a prescription drug used to treat the following conditions in adults:
- panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
- generalized anxiety disorder that requires immediate treatment
Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow. It contains the active ingredient alprazolam. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) Xanax belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines.
This article describes the dosages of Xanax, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Xanax, see this in-depth article.
Note: This article covers Xanax’s usual dosages, which are provided by the drugmaker. But when using Xanax, always take the dosage your doctor prescribes.
Xanax vs. Xanax XR
Another form of Xanax is available, which is called Xanax XR. This form of the drug is used to treat panic disorder only. It’s usually taken once per day.
Xanax tablets are immediate-release, which means all of the drug is released into your body soon after the tablet dissolves.
Xanax XR tablets are extended-release (XR). This means the drug is released slowly into your body over a period of time.
This article focuses just on Xanax. To learn more about Xanax XR’s dosage, talk with your doctor or see the drug’s prescribing information.
Below is information about the usual dosages of Xanax.
Note: This chart highlights the basics of the drug’s dosage. Be sure to read on for more detail.
Xanax form | Xanax strengths | Xanax starting dosage |
• tablet | • 0.25 milligrams (mg) • 0.5 mg • 1 mg • 2 mg | • 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg three times per day |
Note: Xanax is a controlled substance. This means it’s regulated by the U.S. government due to the risk of misuse. (With misuse a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.) You should only take Xanax exactly as prescribed and you should not share the drug with anyone else. It’s also recommended that you store Xanax in a safe place away from children.
What are the forms of Xanax?
Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow.
What strengths does Xanax come in?
Xanax comes in the following strengths:
- 0.25 mg
- 0.5 mg
- 1 mg
- 2 mg
Different Xanax strengths come in different shapes and colors which can help you remember the strength of your tablet.
What are the usual dosages of Xanax?
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage of Xanax and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. Instead of increasing your dose to reach an average dosage, they’ll prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.
Dosage for generalized anxiety disorder
You’ll likely start by taking Xanax 0.25-mg to 0.5-mg tablets three times daily. Then, if you respond well to the drug, your doctor may increase your dosage slowly. The increase is usually once every 3 to 4 days. The maximum dosage recommended by the drugmaker is 4 mg daily.
Dosage for panic disorder
You’ll likely start with Xanax 0.5-mg tablets three times per day. If you respond well to the drug and your doctor increases your daily dosage, they’ll do it slowly by 1 mg every 3 to 4 days. The highest dose reported by the drugmaker is 10 mg daily, but it’s uncommon to take that high of a dose.
Taper
When you stop taking Xanax, your doctor will likely have you decrease your dose slowly. See the “Xanax and withdrawal and dependence” section below.
What’s the dosage of Xanax for children?
There’s no recommended Xanax dosage for children, though doctors sometimes prescribe the drug off-label for them. (Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed to treat a condition or age group it hasn’t been approved for.) To learn more about the uses and risks of Xanax in children, talk with your child’s doctor.
Is Xanax used long term?
No, Xanax is not usually used as a long-term treatment. It’s not known if Xanax is safe to take for more than 10 weeks for panic disorder or more than 4 months for generalized anxiety disorder.
When stopping Xanax, you’ll likely do it slowly using a taper schedule. This will help decrease your risk of withdrawal symptoms. (These are side effects that can happen when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.) Talk with your doctor about what your dosage taper schedule will be.
Dosage adjustments
If you’re an adult ages 65 years and older, if you have decreased liver function, or if you take a drug called ritonavir, your doctor will prescribe a lower Xanax dosage. There are specific dosing guidelines for taking Xanax with ritonavir.
Your Xanax dose will also be decreased if you’re taking other medications that cause your liver to process Xanax more slowly. If you still have side effects, your doctor may decrease your dose further. There’s not a specific lowest dose that’s usually prescribed.
Some drugs affect liver function so much that they’re not safe to take with Xanax at all. Examples include Prezista (darunavir) and Noxafil (Posaconazole). If you need to take one of these drugs, your doctor will likely have you stop your Xanax treatment with a taper first.
Below are answers to some common questions about Xanax and dosage.
Is the dosage of Xanax based on body weight?
No, your dosage of Xanax is not based on your body weight. You’ll likely start on a low dose and your doctor may increase it slowly based on your reaction to the drug.
What is a Xanax bar?
A Xanax bar usually refers to a Xanax tablet that’s shaped like a rectangle. This wording is often used in the context of misuse and addiction. (Misuse means a drug is taken differently than how it was prescribed. Addiction means a drug is used even if it leads to harmful outcomes.)
For more information about the risks of misuse and addiction with Xanax, see the boxed warning at the start of this article).
Xanax and Xanax XR come in several different shapes and colors. This is helpful when your doctor prescribes more than one strength of Xanax to make up your daily dose.
Is Xanax used for insomnia? If so, what’s the dosage?
Xanax is sometimes used off-label* for insomnia. If your doctor prescribes Xanax for this condition, they’ll determine the dosage that’s right for you.
While off-label uses are often safe and effective, you may be able to find an option for insomnia that’s safer than Xanax. Benzodiazepines (the drug group Xanax belongs to) have a higher risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms than other drugs that treat insomnia. (With dependence your body gets used to a drug and needs it for you to feel comfortable. And withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.)
Is there a Xanax dosage used for dental work or before other medical procedures?
Xanax has been used off-label* to help with anxiety and sedation before medical procedures, including dental work. There is not a specific dose that’s always used for this purpose.
Another drug used for this purpose is Valium (diazepam), which (like Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. Find out more about the similarities and differences between Xanax and Valium in this article.
Talk with your doctor or dentist if you have anxiety before medical procedures.
* Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed to treat a condition or age group it hasn’t been approved for.
The dosage of Xanax you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:
- the type and severity of the condition you’re using the drug to treat
- your age
- the form of Xanax you take
- side effects you may have from Xanax
- other medications you take
- other conditions you may have (see “Dosage adjustments” above)
Xanax comes as a tablet you swallow with water, usually three times per day. You can take it with or without food.
For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Xanax, see this article.
Accessible drug containers and labels
If you find it hard to read the prescription label on your medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:
- have large print or use braille
- feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio
Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.
If you have trouble opening medication bottles, let your pharmacist know. They may be able to supply Xanax in an easy-open container. They may also have tips to help make it simpler to open the drug’s container.
If you miss your Xanax dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Don’t take two doses at once.
If you need help remembering to take your dose of Xanax on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.
Do not take more Xanax than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to serious side effects. The drugmaker reports that overdoses have happened with Xanax alone and when Xanax was combined with other drugs or alcohol.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:
- confusion
- extreme drowsiness
- lack of coordination
- slow reflexes
- death (in rare cases)
What to do in case you take too much Xanax
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Xanax. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room. A drug called flumazenil is sometimes used along with other measures to treat an overdose of benzodiazepines (the drug group Xanax belongs to). Xanax
Xanax has a boxed warning for withdrawal reactions. (See the beginning of this article for more details on the boxed warnings for Xanax.) Withdrawal reactions are more likely in people who take higher doses and people who take the drug for a longer amount of time. Symptoms of these reactions include:
- blurry vision
- dizziness
- depression
- anxiety
- uncontrolled movements
- insomnia
- seizure
- hallucinations
- suicidal thoughts
Long-term withdrawal symptoms that can last weeks to 12 months or more include:
- ringing in the ears
- muscle twitches
- numbness
- cognitive difficulty
Your doctor will likely prescribe a dosage taper schedule to help you avoid withdrawal reactions. Your daily dose will likely be decreased by 0.5 mg in 3-day (or longer) intervals. If you have any symptoms of withdrawal, talk with your doctor right away. They may decide to pause or slow your taper schedule.
The sections above describe the usual dosages provided by the drugmaker. If your doctor recommends Xanax for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.
Remember, you should not change your dosage of Xanax without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Xanax exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage. Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask:
- How slow should my Xanax dosage taper be?
- If I take a lower dose of Xanax, will I have a lower risk of side effects?
- Will my dosage of Xanax change if I start another medication?
- Will I take a lower Xanax dosage if I have liver problems?
To get information on different conditions, and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.
Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
Keep for yourself Search for analogues ⚠️ The state registration of this drug has been canceled Description of the active ingredients of the preparation Xanax ® (Xanax ® ) The scientific information provided is general and cannot be used to make decisions. decisions about the use of a particular drug. Update date: 2020.11.07 Marketing authorization holder:PHARMACIA, NV/SA (Belgium) ATX code: N05BA12 (Alprazolam) Active substance: alprazolam (alprazolam) Rec.INN WHO registered Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition drug Xanax®10 pcs. - cellular contour packings (3) - packs of cardboard. Clinical and pharmacological group: Anxiolytic (tranquilizer) Pharmacotherapeutic group: Anxiolytic agent (tranquilizer) Pharmacological actionAnxiolytic (tranquilizer), triazolo-benzodiazepine derivative. It has an anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, anticonvulsant, central muscle relaxant effect. The mechanism of action is to enhance the inhibitory effect of endogenous GABA in the CNS by increasing the sensitivity of GABA receptors to the mediator as a result of stimulation of benzodiazepine receptors located in the allosteric center of postsynaptic GABA receptors of the ascending activating reticular formation of the brainstem and intercalary neurons of the lateral horns of the spinal cord; reduces the excitability of the subcortical structures of the brain (limbic system, thalamus, hypothalamus), inhibits polysynaptic spinal reflexes. Pronounced anxiolytic activity (reduction of emotional stress, weakening of anxiety, fear, anxiety) is combined with a moderately pronounced hypnotic effect; shortens the period of falling asleep, increases the duration of sleep, reduces the number of night awakenings. The mechanism of hypnotic action is to inhibit the cells of the reticular formation of the brain stem. Reduces the impact of emotional, vegetative and motor stimuli that disrupt the mechanism of falling asleep. PharmacokineticsAfter oral administration, alprazolam is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. C max in blood plasma is achieved within 1-2 hours. Plasma protein binding is 80%. Metabolized in the liver. T 1/2 averages 12-15 hours. Alprazolam and its metabolites are excreted mainly by the kidneys. Indications of the active substances of the drug Xanax®Anxiety, neurosis, accompanied by feelings of anxiety, danger, restlessness, tension, worsening of sleep, irritability, as well as somatic disorders; mixed anxiety-depressive states; neurotic reactive-depressive states, accompanied by a decrease in mood, loss of interest in the environment, anxiety, loss of sleep, loss of appetite, somatic disorders; anxiety states and neurotic depressions that have developed against the background of somatic diseases; panic disorder with and without phobia symptoms. Open list of ICD-10 codes
Dosage regimenThe method of administration and dosing regimen of a particular drug depends on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. Compliance of the dosage form of a particular drug with indications for use and dosing regimen should be strictly observed. Individual. It is recommended to use the minimum effective dose. The dose is adjusted during treatment, depending on the effect achieved and tolerability. If it is necessary to increase the dose, it should be increased gradually, first in the evening, and then in the daytime. The initial dose is 250-500 mcg 3 times / day, if necessary, a gradual increase to 4.5 mg / day is possible. For elderly or debilitated patients, the initial dose is 250 mcg 2-3 times / day, maintenance doses - 500-750 mcg / day, if necessary, taking into account tolerance, the dose can be increased. Cancellation or dose reduction of alprazolam should be carried out gradually, reducing the daily dose by no more than 500 mcg every 3 days; sometimes even slower cancellation may be needed. Side effectsFrom the side of the central nervous system: at the beginning of treatment (especially in elderly patients) drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, decreased ability to concentrate, ataxia, disorientation, unsteadiness of gait, slowing down of mental and motor reactions; rarely - headache, euphoria, depression, tremor, memory loss, impaired coordination of movements, depressed mood, confusion, dystonic extrapyramidal reactions (uncontrolled movements, including the eyes), weakness, myasthenia gravis, dysarthria; in some cases, paradoxical reactions (aggressive outbursts, confusion, psychomotor agitation, fear, suicidal tendencies, muscle spasm, hallucinations, agitation, irritability, anxiety, insomnia). On the part of the digestive system: possible dry mouth or salivation, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation or diarrhea, impaired liver function, increased activity of liver transaminases and alkaline phosphatase, jaundice. On the part of the hematopoietic system: possible leukopenia, neutropenia, agranulocytosis (chills, hyperthermia, sore throat, excessive fatigue or weakness), anemia, thrombocytopenia. From the urinary system: Urinary incontinence, urinary retention, impaired renal function, decreased or increased libido, dysmenorrhea are possible. On the part of the endocrine system: possible changes in body weight, libido disorders, menstrual cycle disorders. From the side of the cardiovascular system: possible decrease in blood pressure, tachycardia. Allergic reactions: possible skin rash, itching. Contraindications for useComa, shock, myasthenia gravis, angle-closure glaucoma (acute attack or predisposition), acute alcohol poisoning (with weakening of vital functions), opioid analgesics, hypnotics and psychotropic drugs, chronic obstructive airways disease with initial manifestations of respiratory insufficiency, acute respiratory failure, severe depression (suicidal tendencies may occur), pregnancy (especially the first trimester), lactation, children and adolescents under 18 years of age, hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines. Use during pregnancy and lactationAlprazolam has a toxic effect on the fetus and increases the risk of congenital malformations when used in the first trimester of pregnancy. Chronic use during pregnancy can lead to physical dependence with the development of withdrawal syndrome in the newborn. Reception in therapeutic doses in later stages of pregnancy can cause depression of the central nervous system of the newborn. Use immediately before or during labor may cause respiratory depression, decreased muscle tone, hypotension, hypothermia, and poor suckling (poor neonatal sucking syndrome) in the neonate. Benzodiazepines may be excreted in breast milk, which may make the newborn drowsy and make feeding difficult. experimental studies show that alprazolam and its metabolites are excreted in breast milk. Use in hepatic impairmentAlprazolam should be used with caution in patients with hepatic impairment. Use in Impaired Renal FunctionAlprazolam should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function. Use in childrenContraindication: children and adolescents under 18 years of age. Use in the elderlyFor elderly or debilitated patients, the initial dose is 250 mcg 2-3 times / day, maintenance doses - 500-750 mcg / day, if necessary, taking into account tolerance, the dose can be increased. Special instructionsIn endogenous depression, alprazolam can be used in combination with antidepressants. When using alprazolam in patients with depression, there have been cases of the development of hypomanic and manic states. Alprazolam should be used with caution in patients with hepatic and/or renal impairment. In patients who have not previously taken drugs that affect the central nervous system, alprazolam is effective at lower doses compared with patients who received antidepressants, anxiolytics or suffering from chronic alcoholism. With long-term use in high doses, the development of addiction and the formation of drug dependence is possible, especially in patients prone to drug abuse. With rapid dose reduction or abrupt withdrawal of alprazolam, a withdrawal syndrome occurs, the symptoms of which can range from mild dysphoria and insomnia to a severe syndrome with abdominal and skeletal muscle cramps, vomiting, increased sweating, tremors and convulsions. The withdrawal syndrome is more common in individuals who have received alprazolam for a long time (more than 8-12 weeks). Other tranquilizers should not be co-administered with alprazolam. The safety of alprazolam in children and adolescents under 18 years of age has not been established. Children, especially at a younger age, are very sensitive to the inhibitory effect of benzodiazepines on the central nervous system. Avoid drinking alcohol during treatment. Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms During the period of treatment, one should refrain from engaging in potentially hazardous activities that require increased attention and speed of psychomotor reactions (driving vehicles or working with mechanisms). Drug interactionsWith the simultaneous use of psychotropic, anticonvulsants, drugs and ethanol, an increase in the inhibitory effect of alprazolam on the central nervous system is observed. With simultaneous use of blockers of histamine H 2 receptors reduce the clearance of alprazolam and increase the inhibitory effect of alprazolam on the central nervous system; macrolide antibiotics - reduce the clearance of alprazolam. With simultaneous use of hormonal contraceptives for oral administration increase T 1/2 alprazolam. With the simultaneous use of alprazolam with dextropropoxyphene, more pronounced CNS depression is observed than in combination with other benzodiazepines, because it is possible to increase the concentration of alprazolam in the blood plasma. Simultaneous intake of digoxin increases the risk of developing intoxication with cardiac glycosides. Alprazolam increases the plasma concentration of imipramine. Co-administration of itraconazole and ketoconazole increase the effects of alprazolam. With the simultaneous use of paroxetine, the effects of alprazolam may be enhanced due to the inhibition of its metabolism. Fluvoxamine increases the plasma concentration of alprazolam and the risk of its side effects. With the simultaneous use of fluoxetine, an increase in the concentration of alprazolam in the blood plasma is possible due to a decrease in its metabolism and clearance under the influence of fluoxetine, which is accompanied by psychomotor disorders. The possibility of an increase in the action of alprazolam with simultaneous use with erythromycin cannot be ruled out. Keep If you want to place a link to the description of this drug - use this code Xanax ® . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal. |
Xanax is a lethal sedative for teenagers
Addiction is a disease that can affect anyone. Unfortunately, addictions don't take long to develop. Yes, and highly addictive drugs may seem at first glance, safe drugs. Xanax is such a drug. The drug, designed to help in the fight against insomnia, is easy to buy in pharmacies. Xanax is a medicine that has hidden possibilities. Often it is he who is chosen by drug addicts in pursuit of an inexpensive and affordable buzz.
Even if Xanax is prescribed by a doctor and bought according to a prescription, you should not forget that treatment can cause serious consequences. The strongest sedative quickly causes addiction and should be taken under the strict supervision of a doctor and only in the doses indicated by a specialist. Exceeding the dosage or increasing the number of doses can become addictive.
Xanax is a form of benzodiazepine that helps with anxiety and insomnia. The drug slows down the nervous system, helps relieve anxiety, a sense of threat. The person calms down, his life rhythm is getting better. But only if you follow all the rules and recommendations for taking the medicine.
In addition to dealing with anxiety, Xanax helps to cope with alcohol addiction. When refusing alcohol, a person experiences feelings of anxiety, panic attacks and other problems, the solution of which is the drug prescribed by the doctor. For medical purposes, Xanax is also used in the treatment of seizures. This is really one of the most effective and effective psychoactive substances, for which drug addicts choose it.
Xanax as a drug can radically change a person's life. Even the slightest overdose causes addiction, and with the systematic use of the drug without the supervision of a specialist, the consequences can be fatal.
Xanax: how the drug works
Treatment with Xanax rarely leads to addiction if done correctly. But the development of drug addiction due to medical care happens infrequently. Much more often, drug addicts deliberately begin to take pills of the drug.
The human brain is a receptacle for a huge number of gamma receptors (neurons). They are responsible for anxiety, restlessness, a sense of danger and other symptoms, which are eliminated with the help of Xanax. With severe anxiety, the activity of neurons increases excessively, and the drug helps to “extinguish” it. Xanax acts very quickly - anxiety and panic disappear almost immediately after taking the pill. But addiction develops quickly. Under the supervision of a doctor, the drug is quickly canceled, replacing it with other methods of treatment. With drug addiction, withdrawal does not occur.
Reviews for Xanax vary. For some patients, this medicine helps to cope with the disease. In other people, it causes serious health problems and addiction, which can be felt even between doses prescribed by a doctor.
Xanax is a drug, and if taken the way addicts take it, anyone can become addicted. As a result, there is a feeling of euphoria, lightness, mental activity becomes dull, the body relaxes, mood improves. A long period of Xanax use leads to dementia, mental disorders, poor coordination. With each new dose of the drug, the condition will worsen, the doses of the drug will increase, the risks to life will increase. If you have been prescribed Xanax for treatment, keep the tablets out of the reach of children and strangers. Carefully monitor your condition and be sure to visit your doctor regularly.
How to understand that a person needs help
Xanax is the effect of calmness and carelessness. But it also has a lot of side effects. Symptoms of dependence on Xanax are fairly easy to recognize:
- rapid onset of fatigue, severe fatigue;
- people are confused in their thoughts, judgments;
- the addict's speech is confused, slurred;
- severe headaches appear;
- increases sensitivity to noise;
- tremor of hands and whole body develops;
- mood changes abruptly;
- insomnia develops;
- emotions disappear;
- increased sweating;
- may appear numbness of the extremities, vomiting, nausea;
- weight changes dramatically.
Dependence on Xanax also has external manifestations. The skin may turn red and develop a rash. The face swells, becomes puffy, swelling may occur in other parts of the body, including the throat, tongue. Speech in this case becomes difficult, the voice changes.
Taking Xanax also affects the state of the gastrointestinal tract. Drug addicts experience stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation. Cardiac activity is disturbed, as a result of which an aggravated feeling of cold appears, a person shakes, freezes even in the heat. Over time, the feeling of euphoria is replaced by increased anxiety, suicidal thoughts, fears appear. This condition cannot last long - a person either goes to a specialized clinic for treatment, or dies.
The active substance of Xanax is alprazolam. The consequences of taking it can only be eliminated by specialists, so dealing with the problem on your own is not an option.
Xanax is a strong drug, but what effect should be expected from its correct use? When treated with Xanax, the patient may experience a feeling of lethargy, slight fatigue, but such manifestations do not entail serious consequences.