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Xanax is the name brand for alprazolam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorder. Although it is a prescription medication, it can become addictive and can even cause overdose and death when misused. 

Because the drug is potentially dangerous, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the signs of Xanax addiction.

What is Xanax? 

Xanax is a benzodiazepine drug formulated to treat anxiety. It works by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. It produces a soothing effect in the brain and nervous system. 

When introduced into the body, Xanax slows the movement of unbalanced brain chemicals. It boosts the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which blocks specific central nervous system signals producing a sense of calm.  

Xanax is available in a variety of doses including .25 mg, .5 mg, 1 mg and 2 mg. The .25, .5, and 1 mg doses come in a white, oval-shaped pill form. The 2 mg strength comes in white, green, and yellow and it is rectangular. 

The drug will become most potent one to two hours after it is taken. It can stay in the user’s system for 12 to 15 hours. 

What are the Signs That Someone is Addicted to Xanax?

Although Xanax is often prescribed by a doctor, it can be misused in several ways. People that get a prescription for the drug may begin building a tolerance and may use more of the drug to get the same effects. 

Others buy Xanax on the street for the calming effects it produces, and a habit may form that way. 

It’s not difficult to become addicted to Xanax as it causes withdrawal symptoms. After people take the drug for a while, their body becomes used to having it in its system. When they don’t have the drug in their system, they begin experiencing flu-like symptoms.

They know the only way to make these symptoms go away is to take more of the drug. This creates a cycle of dependency that can be hard to stop. 

In addition to tolerance and dependency, other signs of someone addicted to Xanax include:

• Mood swings 
• Troubled relationships
• Loss of interest in the activities you once loved
• Dangerous behaviors
• Legal and financial issues
• Being unable to stop using Xanax despite being aware of its harmful effects
• Spending a lot of time obtaining and using Xanax

How to Get Help for Someone with a Xanax Addiction

If you are dealing with a loved one that’s addicted to Xanax, it can be difficult for both parties. Fortunately, there are clinics available that offer help. 

Getting a loved one to agree to treatment is not easy. You may try talking to them. In doing so, use a non-judgmental manner and let them know how much you care about their health and wellness. 

If the person is still not agreeing to get help, it may be necessary to schedule an intervention. If you go that route, you should have a rehab center at the ready so they can go in immediately without thinking twice. 

Altitude Recovery is an inpatient residential program located in Camarillo, CA. We offer an individualized experience that includes a customized plan best suited to each patient. We will provide you with the tools you need to achieve long-term recovery. 

Xanax can have beneficial effects, but it can also be highly addictive. If you or a loved one is dealing with Xanax dependency issues, do not hesitate to reach out to Altitude Recovery to get the help you need. We will assist you in achieving a higher quality of life.