Xanax is a brand of medication with the active ingredient alprazolam, a type of sedative that is used to treat anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. Anyone taking this medication should be familiar with the common and uncommon Xanax side effects and what abusing the medication can do to your body and mind. While it is safe to take when following the prescription, there is a risk of addiction if you abuse it or take it with other drugs or alcohol.
At Evoke Wellness at Coconut Creek, we work with individuals who are struggling with an addiction to Xanax or other prescription medications. When you arrive at our discreet facility, we will assess your physical and mental health and develop a custom treatment plan focusing on your unique symptoms and their severity. We use a combination of behavioral therapies and medication-assisted treatment for a more complete recovery experience.
If you would like more information about our Benzo rehab program in Florida, drop us an email or call 866.693.3871 today to schedule a visit.
Is Xanax a Benzo?
Xanax’s main ingredient is alprazolam, a benzodiazepine that has shown positive results in treating depression and anxiety disorders. It is one of the most prescribed benzos on the market today and is also found in Zolam, Restyl, Alprazolam Intensol, and other brand-name medications.
The success of this medication lies in how it reacts with cell receptors in your body. Taking the prescribed amount suppresses neurotransmitters in the brain and central nervous system and creates an overall pleasing sensation. This is because it increases the amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in your body.
If you take more than prescribed or take it with wine or cannabis, it can cause a euphoric response that is very addicting. If you continue to take higher doses, your body will begin to crave that same level of intoxication and create painful withdrawal symptoms and intense cravings when you stop or go back to your regularly prescribed amount.
Common Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
- Panic attacks
- Hyperventilation
- Tremors
- Insomnia/Hyposomnia
- Muscle spasms
- Hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch
- Psychosis
- Seizures
- Drug cravings
Those who abuse their prescription medication are more likely to switch to harder drugs, like heroin or meth, when they can no longer refill the prescription.
At Evoke Wellness at Coconut Creek, our addiction treatment programs support people with an addiction to prescription medication, alcohol, heroin, or other addictive substances. Our therapists build a close relationship with each patient to better understand their condition and make them feel comfortable enough to open up to them.
Understanding Xanax Side Effects
Taking Xanax as prescribed by your doctor is safe as long as you follow some simple directions:
- Don’t take more than prescribed. If you feel the current dosage is not enough, talk with your doctor. Don’t simply “double up” and expect everything to be okay.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or using other drugs while taking Xanax. Doing so only increases your risk of developing an addiction to multiple substances.
- Talk with your doctor as your symptoms change.
The most common Xanax side effects include drowsiness, increased saliva production, and decreased sexual activity or interest. More severe side effects include:
- Sudden mood swings
- Hallucinations
- Thoughts of suicide
- Loss of coordination
- Mental confusion
- Slurring words
If you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes or have a seizure, call 911 immediately.
Allergic reactions to Xanax are very rare but still a possibility. Signs of an allergic reaction to Xanax include:
- Itching and swelling of the face, tongue, and throat
- Rash
- Severe dizziness
- Trouble breathing
Talk with your doctor immediately if you experience an allergic reaction to the medication.
Find a Benzo Rehab Program in Florida at Evoke Wellness at Coconut Creek
Evoke Wellness at Coconut Creek is a full-service addiction treatment facility serving Florida residents who develop an addiction to Xanax, opioids, cocaine, or other toxic substances. We base each of our programs on the individual’s severity of symptoms and use a combination of evidence-based therapies and holistic approaches to address the needs and recovery goals of the patient.
If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to Xanax or other prescription medication, help is available today. Call 866.693.3871 to speak with our compassionate team, or reach out online and schedule an appointment to begin a healing journey.
