Xanax is a prescribed medication used to treat general anxiety disorder and insomnia, but it is commonly abused and can be highly addictive. According to Addiction Treatment Center, Xanax is the number one psychiatric medication prescribed within the United States. But how do you know if you are addicted to Xanax and can you die from Xanax withdrawal symptoms? 

    With so much chaos happening throughout the world today, it is not surprising that more people are developing anxiety disorders, depression, and having difficulties sleeping. Xanax can be a helpful tool to ease the mind, and calm the nervous system. But when used too much, and a dependency starts to be built, stopping the drug cold turkey can lead to uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. 

    Really, Can You Die from Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms? Know Now

    When a person has become addicted to Xanax, a tolerance builds where they now require more pills to reach the desired effect. Their body now needs the medication in order to function properly. So, can you die from Xanax withdrawal symptoms? The simple answer is yes.

    Some symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include: 

    • Insomnia or sleep disturbances 
    • Irritability and mood swings 
    • Increased anxiety or panic
    • Nausea 
    • Heart palpitations  

    More serious Xanax withdrawal symptoms that can lead to fatality include: 

    • Seizures 
    • Psychosis/Paranoia  
    • Hallucinations
    • Convulsions 

    Experiencing Xanax withdrawal can be a painful and dangerous experience, and often leads back to Xanax addiction. Seeking help through a rehab for Xanax addiction can increase your chances of successfully quitting the drug. Eagle Recovery will help you throughout the entire process of recovery. 

    Understanding Xanax

    Xanax, otherwise known as Alprazolam, is a prescribed medication used as a nervous system depressant. Xanax is used to feel calm and relaxed and can help ease anxiety. The effects of the drug typically kick in within one to two hours after taking it and can last in your system for up to 15 hours. 

    Xanax can be used in a healthy way, to help with anxious thoughts, panic, or difficulties sleeping. However, this drug has become very popular and more people are now using what they call “xannies” to cope with everyday life. The problem is, if you take this medication without a prescription, you may go to the streets in order to find more. The dangers of Xanax addiction are high and the withdrawals are not pleasant. Seek help through a rehab for Xanax addiction if you are struggling to quit the drug, or experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. 

    How Do You Know If You Are Addicted to Xanax?

    Since Xanax is a prescribed medication, people often think they cannot become addicted or dependent, but this is far from the truth. So how do you know if you are addicted to Xanax? Symptoms of Xanax addiction can be physical, psychological, and behavioural and might include:

    • Excessive drowsiness 
    • Needing more of the drug to reach desired effect 
    • Loss of interest in normal activities 
    • Memory problems
    • Financial problems due to spending large amounts on the drug
    • Strong cravings for the drug 

    It is important to note that there is a major difference between Xanax abuse and Xanax addiction. Xanax as a recreational drug has been used to increase the buzz feeling by mixing with alcohol or other drugs. People who abuse Xanax still have control over their lives, and are not dependent on the drug to live. On the other hand, Xanax addiction is when a person has become dependent both physically and psychologically. Xanax addiction also includes withdrawal effects if drug use has stopped, and struggles within their personal life, such as within relationships or financially. 

    How Much Xanax Does It Take to Be Addicted?

    While there is no simple answer to how much Xanax does it take to be addicted, there are some key factors that can determine addiction. Building up a tolerance is normal when taking more than a prescribed amount, but can lead right into a Xanax addiction. Before taking more than the doctor recommended amount, consider if you are developing an addiction to the drug. 

    When your body and mind start craving the drug to function and cope with everyday life, it may be time to ask for help. Eagle Recovery is here to support you. 

    Is Xanax Illegal?

    Xanax is a controlled medication, which means if you have a prescription for the drug, it is legal in your hands. However, since so many people abuse this drug, and take it without carrying a prescription, it becomes illegal. 

    American Addiction Centers explains that if caught with Xanax without a prescription, users can get up to 5 years in prison for 1st offence, and 10 years for 2nd offence. This is not a crime worth committing. 

    Can Too Much Xanax Kill You?

    Although Xanax as a recreational drug has become very popular, it can be highly dangerous. When a person takes their prescribed dosage, without mixing with any other drug, there are no fatal risks. However, people who abuse this drug, often mix it with alcohol or other drugs to enhance the feeling. This can lead to fatality. Mixing Xanax with other drugs can lead to overdose and death. 

    Signs of Xanax overdose include: 

    • Slowed heart rate
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Fainting 
    • Muscle Weakness 
    • Loss of balance 
    • Coma

    Before mixing Xanax with other drugs or alcohol, think about the risks involved and those who would be affected if something were to happen. Xanax should only be used as it is prescribed by your doctor.

    Rehab For Xanax Addiction

    Breaking an addiction to Xanax comes with many different challenges, but it is possible. With the help of medical and mental health professionals, Eagle Recovery will provide you with the help you need for a successful recovery. Through drug detox and drug treatment, you can learn to cope with life without the help of Xanax. Some of the best substance use professionals will help create a Xanax addiction treatment plan that will help you stay on track to a drug-free life. Contact Eagle Recovery(888-512-1378) today to start your journey to recovery. 

    Citations

    Addiction Center. “Xanax Addiction and Abuse.” 

    https://www.addictioncenter.com/benzodiazepines/xanax/ Reviewed 29 September, 2021 

    American Addiction Centers. “The Dangers of Quitting Xanax Cold Turkey.” 

    https://americanaddictioncenters.org/xanax-treatment/dangers-cold-turkey Reviewed 26, October 2021

    Addiction Center. “Xanax Symptoms and Warning Signs.” 

    https://www.addictioncenter.com/benzodiazepines/xanax/symptoms-signs/ Reviewed 22 September, 2021

    American Addiction Centers. “Xanax History and Statistics.” 

    https://drugabuse.com/benzodiazepines/xanax/history-statistics/