Xanax Abuse

Xanax is the trade name of a prescription drug called alprazolam, which is considered a benzodiazepine, a psychoactive. The drug is often called by its different nicknames including “Benzos,” “Xannies,” “Zannies,” “Handlebars,” “Bars,” and “Blue Footballs.”

Doctors most often prescribe Xanax to patients who are suffering from anxiety and panic disorders. The drug works by binding to specific receptors in the brain, making them less susceptible to stimulation.

The drug is very fast acting, often taking effect within 25 minutes. This means that it doesn’t take long for patients to experience relief from their symptoms. Unfortunately, the long term effect of the drug is for patients to build up a tolerance to it, making larger and larger doses necessary to produce the same initial effects.

Xanax Statistics

Virtually anyone can become addicted to Xanax, especially those who use it recreationally. According to a report issued by the U.S. National Library of Medicine, using Xanax can result in an increased tolerance and eventual addiction and dependence if it is taken in large quantities or used over a prolonged period. Even those who take the medication exactly as prescribed can become addicted without even realizing it.

According to the 2011 Treatment Episode Data Set Report, more than 60,200 people obtained abuse treatment for their addition to Xanax. This is a dramatic increase from the 22,400 people who sought treatment for the same addiction in 1998.

Its abuse is not only a problem for adults. Teenagers experience addiction issues with this drug as well. According to the 2014 Monitoring the Future survey, 13.9% of teenagers report using prescription drugs for non-medical purposes in the past year.

This number includes other prescription drugs as well. It’s known to be quite popular as a recreational drug by teens. This study does show some mild declines between 2011 and 2014 across the 8th, 10th, and 12th grade students sampled.

Medical Risks of Prolonged Xanax Use

Someone who is abusing Xanax will appear excessively tired and lethargic, while lacking the motivation to engage in the normal activities of daily life.

They will show fewer signs of interest in tasks that they enjoyed previously and won’t recall details of their previous activities. Other symptoms include the inability of a person to articulate their words.

Abusers will experience withdrawal symptoms when they are not taking the medication. Eventually, their life will revolve around the drug and their ability to maintain their supply. They might start to take other drugs when Xanax cannot be obtained.

Social Risks of Prolonged Xanax Abuse

It is common for people with Xanax abuse problems to have signs of it in nearly every aspect of their life, including strained relationships with close friends and family, and even marital problems.

This also includes poor job performance or not showing up at all. It also affects finances due to spending increasing amounts of money on the drug.

Getting Help for Xanax Addiction

Anyone who fears that they might have a problem with Xanax abuse—or knows someone who does—should call and speak with someone who will be able to discuss the inpatient drug treatment options. Because the detox process can be very dangerous, a knowledgeable medical professional should also be consulted.

Our Master’s Camp and Providence Women’s Recovery offer Christ based recovery residences for anyone who has completed their primary phase of recovery.