We often believe that medications that are prescribed to us by a healthcare provider are safe. While this is usually true, there are prescription medications that can prove to be problematic. Xanax is one of those medications. Even if taken as prescribed, Xanax can be dangerous when taken long-term. If you have taken Xanax on a long-term basis, you have to be extremely careful in how you stop taking it. Abruptly stopping Xanax can be dangerous and is best done under the care of a physician. Your mind and body get used to functioning with it, but Xanax addiction treatment can help both become free. At Evolve Indy, we understand how prescription drug use can turn into an addiction. Our staff is here to help you break free in a safe and supported environment.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is classified as a benzodiazepine. This class of drugs is used to treat generalized anxiety disorders, insomnia, seizures, social phobia, and panic disorders. As part of the benzodiazepine drug class, Xanax can cause drowsiness, lightheadedness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and many other side effects. Xanax and other drugs in the benzodiazepine class can be dangerous on their own and even more dangerous when mixed with other medications.
In 2019, sixteen percent of overdose deaths involving opioids also involved benzodiazepines. Xanax doesn’t just relax your anxiety; it sedates your body. Benzodiazepines are a depressant, which means that they depress the functions of your body including your breathing. If you take too much Xanax or mix it with drugs like opioids or alcohol that also depress your breathing, it can be fatal.
Is Xanax Addictive?
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires a warning on all Xanax because of addiction and misuse risks. Using Xanax doesn’t just lead to addiction; it can lead to death. Drug overdose deaths involving benzodiazepines rose more than eight hundred percent from 1999 to 2017. You should take drugs like Xanax on a short-term basis only because physical dependence can occur after just two weeks of use. Xanax used for an acute bout of anxiety can be safe, but Xanax is not recommended for chronic long-term conditions. Long-term use affects the pathways in your brain and makes it much harder to stop taking the drug. Additionally, long-term use and dependence lead to needing more to be able to function. Often this leads to having to buy the medicine illegally, and, as you might imagine, this is much more dangerous.
How Do I Know I Need Xanax Addiction Treatment?
Knowing that it’s time to seek treatment is not a perfect science. However, if you think that you need Xanax addiction treatment, you probably do. If you find that you cannot cope with everyday life without Xanax or begin to go into withdrawals when you don’t take it, it’s time for treatment. Even if you are taking your Xanax as prescribed, you may need treatment to stop taking it. This is especially true if you’ve been taking Xanax for a long-time. The longer you have been taking them, the harder it is to stop taking them. Long-term use leads to your being psychologically dependent and your body being physically addicted. Withdrawing from Xanax can be very dangerous. Withdrawal symptoms include abdominal cramps, increased anxiety, blurred vision, difficulty sleeping, headaches, severe depression, paranoia, delusions, and even seizures. The safest way to stop taking benzodiazepines is under a healthcare provider’s care in a medical detox setting.
Evolve Indy Is Here To Help You With Your Addiction
Xanax addiction is a serious condition, but recovery is possible with the right support. Benzodiazepine dependence can develop quickly and withdrawing without professional help can be dangerous. That’s why having a dedicated team of specialists by your side is so important. At Evolve Indy, we combine medical expertise with compassionate care to help you safely navigate detox and build a strong foundation for lasting sobriety.
We know that no two recovery journeys are the same. That’s why we offer a range of programs tailored to your unique needs and circumstances. Whether you need the structure of our Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), the flexibility of our Outpatient Addiction Treatment (OP), the stability of Community Housing or the healing power of Family Therapy, we are here to support you every step of the way.
Take the First Step Toward Freedom from Xanax
If you or a loved one is struggling with Xanax addiction, don’t wait. Contact the team at Evolve Indy today to learn more about our Xanax addiction treatment programs and find the right path forward for you.
Why Choose Evolve Indy?
At Evolve Indy, we are committed to providing personalized and evidence-based addiction treatment in a safe and supportive environment. Our experienced team understands the complexities of benzodiazepine addiction and will work closely with you to create a treatment plan that sets you up for long-term success. Your recovery is our priority and we are proud to walk alongside you on your journey to a healthier and happier life.