Xanax (Alprazolam) Addiction: Definition, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment

Xanax (alprazolam) addiction is the dependence on Xanax, a medication prescribed for anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Xanax addiction starts with individuals misusing the drug by taking higher doses than prescribed or using it without a prescription, leading to Xanax abuse.

The main symptoms of Xanax addiction are anxiety when not using the drug, impaired coordination, strong cravings, drowsiness, slurred speech, and lying to get more prescriptions. The key causes of Xanax addiction are prescription misuse, recreational use, and co-occurring mental health disorders.

Xanax (alprazolam) addiction leads to several side effects, including social withdrawal, financial problems, paraphernalia, legal issues, and overdose or death in extreme cases. Treatment options include medical detoxification, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, gradual tapering, support groups, and in-patient treatment.

What is Xanax?

Xanax, or alprazolam is a prescription medication from the benzodiazepine group. Xanax is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders and related problems, such as panic attacks and depressive feelings. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that calms the brain and central nervous system. Alprazolam (Xanax) is effective for short-term relief but has a high risk of dependency when used long-term, as stated by Nassima Ait-Daoud and Allan Scott Hamby in their study “A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal.”

Is Xanax Addictive?

Yes, Xanax (alprazolam) is highly addictive when used without a prescription or for longer than the recommended period. Xanax’s strong calming capabilities give a sense of high or euphoria, which makes people use it more and more. Xanax addiction usually forms within weeks of regular use. Patients need to follow their doctor’s recommended dosage and time to avoid Xanax abuse or addiction.

What Makes Xanax Addictive?

Xanax is addictive because of its short life, which means it doesn’t stay in the body for long. The drug absorbs fast in the bloodstream, which means it acts quickly to relieve anxiety. Since its effects wear off quickly, individuals tend to consume the drug more than the recommended dosage, eventually leading to abuse and addiction. Xanax affects the brain’s GABA neurotransmitter by producing feelings of calm and relaxation that are appealing to people with constant anxiety or stress.

What is Xanax Addiction?

Xanax addiction, alprazolam dependence, is a substance or benzodiazepine use disorder that involves the compulsive need to use Xanax despite facing its harmful effects. Research published by the National Institutes of Health explains that the leading cause of Xanax addiction is its calming effect, where long-term use alters brain chemistry and leads to dependency.

Young adults are the most likely to use alprazolam or similar drugs like lorazepam non-medically, according to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. 10.3% of individuals aged 18-25 reported misuse, nearly double the rate of those aged 26 and over (5.7%). In 2011, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reported that more than half of the nearly 176,000 emergency room visits for benzodiazepines involved alcohol or other drugs.

What are the Signs & Symptoms of Xanax Addiction?

The signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction are anxiety when not using the drug, strong cravings, drowsiness, slurred speech, blurred vision, lying to get more prescriptions, loss of control, and difficulty concentrating.

These signs and symptoms are listed below.

• Anxiety When Not Using the Drug: Individuals with Xanax addiction feel anxiety or irritability when not using the drug, leading to a cycle of taking the drug just to feel normal, according to Derek Blevins in their study “A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal.”

• Strong Cravings: Addicted individuals feel an intense need to consume Xanax and often find it difficult to think of anything else. These cravings are the warning signs of an addiction.

• Drowsiness: Drowsiness means constant fatigue or excessive sleepiness. Drowsiness is a common side effect of Xanax and makes it difficult for people to stay alert or complete daily activities. Drowsiness further leads to decreased productivity and strained relationships.

• Slurred Speech: Slurred speech occurs when Xanax slows down the central nervous system and makes it difficult to communicate clearly. Slurred speech affects personal and professional interactions and shatters your confidence.

• Blurred Vision: Blurred vision is one of the most noticeable signs of regular Xanax use. Xanax affects the central nervous system and individuals struggle to see clearly and perform daily visual tasks.

• Lying to Get More Prescriptions: People struggling with Xanax addiction constantly lie to medical professionals or loved ones to get more of the drug. They lie about being anxious, depressed, or having panic attacks. The lying behavior further causes trust issues within relationships.

• Loss of Control: Loss of control is a key sign of Xanax addiction. Individuals start taking more Xanax than they should, even if they attempt to cut back or quit their consumption.

• Difficulty Concentrating: Xanax and other benzodiazepines affect cognitive functions and make it hard to stay focused on tasks, according to the study “The Residual Medium and Long-term Cognitive Effects of Benzodiazepine Use: An Updated Meta-analysis.” Difficulty in concentration interferes with work, studies, or personal responsibilities.

What are the Causes of Xanax Addiction?

The main causes of Xanax addiction are prescription misuse, recreational use, co-occurring mental health disorders, genetic factors, environmental factors, and stressful life events.

These causes are explained below.

• Prescription Misuse: Many individuals initially get Xanax (alprazolam) through a prescription but misuse it by taking higher doses than prescribed or using it for longer than directed, according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine.

• Recreational Use: Some people, especially the ones with a history of substance abuse use Xanax recreationally to get high. Recreational use leads to addiction, requiring larger doses to get high again and again.

• Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders: Individuals with anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions turn to Xanax for relief, according to Tzu-Ting Chen, Chih-Hung Ko, and Shao-Tsu Chen in their study published in the Journal of the Formosan Medical Association. The relief effects of Xanax lead to addiction, especially if mental health disorders are not managed through therapy or other treatment options.

• Genetic Factors: Genetic factors play a significant role in benzodiazepine addiction, including Xanax. Individuals with a family history of substance abuse have a higher risk of developing a Xanax addiction due to inherited traits, according to the study “Genetic and psychosocial factors for benzodiazepine addiction.”

• Environmental Factors: Environmental factors like social gatherings and peer pressure influence substance use. Individuals living in environments where drug use is common are more likely to experiment with Xanax and develop an addiction.

• Stressful Life Events: Stressful life events like trauma or loss drive individuals to seek relief through substances like Xanax. Taking Xanax (alprazolam) for relief quickly becomes a necessity and leads to increased usage and addiction.

What are the Side Effects of Xanax Addiction?

The possible side effects of Xanax include social withdrawal, financial problems, paraphernalia, legal problems, weakness, dry mouth & vomiting, loss of appetite, constipation, memory loss, suicidal thoughts, and overdose and death.

These side effects are listed below.

• Social Withdrawal: People with Xanax addiction begin to isolate themselves from friends and family and prefer to spend time alone. They usually have feelings of shame, anxiety, or depression associated with their addiction.

• Financial Problems: The cost of obtaining Xanax leads to financial strain, according to the study “Prescription Sedative Misuse and Abuse.” Individuals spend huge amounts on prescriptions to get the drug which leads to debt and financial instability.

• Paraphernalia: Paraphernalia refers to any equipment or items indicating drug use, such as pill bottles. The presence of such items and getting caught further isolates the individual.

• Legal Problems: Legal issues, such as arrest and criminal charges are possible when you engage in illegal activities to get Xanax. These illegal activities usually include purchasing the drug from unregulated sources and forging prescriptions.

• Weakness: Long and unnecessary use of Xanax (alprazolam) leads to physical weakness and makes everyday activities more difficult. Individuals will always feel fatigued or lethargic.

• Dry Mouth and Vomiting: Xanax in high doses leads to dry mouth and makes it difficult to speak or swallow. Some people experience nausea and vomiting, which affects their appetite and hydration levels.

• Loss of Appetite: Many individuals taking Xanax experience a reduced desire to eat. The loss of appetite leads to weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.

• Constipation: Benzodiazepines such as Xanax slow down the digestive system and lead to constipation, according to Tetsuya Ueki and Mikiro Nakashima in their study “Relationship Between Constipation and Medication.” 

• Memory Loss: Regular use of Xanax impairs short-term memory and people find it hard to remember recent events or learn new information, according to H V Curran, H Noshirvani, I M Marks, M Başoğlu in their study “Long-term effects of alprazolam on memory.” Cognitive impairment impacts daily life and responsibilities.

• Suicidal Thoughts: Xanax addiction leads to increased feelings of hopelessness and suicidal thoughts, especially in people with pre-existing mental health disorders, according to the study “A Case of Suicidal Thoughts With Alprazolam.” Suicidal thoughts are serious and require immediate attention.

• Overdose and Death: Taking Xanax in excessive amounts leads to overdose, which is life-threatening, according to Luke O'Regan, David Sibbritt, and Ian M Whyte in their study “Alprazolam is relatively more toxic than other benzodiazepines in overdose.” Combining Xanax with other depressants, such as alcohol leads to serious consequences as well.

How to Diagnose Xanax Addiction?

Xanax addiction is diagnosed by a complete evaluation by healthcare providers. Medical or healthcare professionals analyze the person’s medical history, usage patterns, and the impact of the drug on their daily life. Doctors ask about the frequency and amount of Xanax they take, any attempts to stop or cut down usage, and the presence of withdrawal symptoms. They look for behavioral signs such as slurred speech, blurred vision, weakness, social withdrawal, etc.

How to Help Someone with a Xanax Addiction?

To help someone with a Xanax addiction, you must start by offering your support and letting them know that you care about them. Try to make open communication and allow them to share their feelings without judgment. It's important to gently suggest that they seek professional help, whether through counseling, support groups, or addiction treatment programs. You can help them by giving them possible options and even taking them to appointments if they feel comfortable.

What are the Treatment Options for Xanax Addiction?

The treatment options for Xanax addiction include medical detoxification, cognitive behavioral therapy, medication, gradual tapering, support groups,  gradual tapering, and in-patient treatment.

These treatment options for Xanax (alprazolam) addiction are explained below.

• Medical Detoxification: Medical detoxification is the first step to treating Xanax and other benzo addictions. It manages withdrawal symptoms as the drug is cleared from the body. Medical detox provides immediate relief from withdrawal symptoms, according to the study “Detoxification from benzodiazepines: Schedules and strategies.”  While detox is effective, it can’t be the only treatment option for Xanax addiction.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is a counseling therapy that helps people cope with various benzodiazepine addictions, including Xanax. CBT is used in both individual and group settings. Research shows that CBT significantly reduces relapse rates among individuals with substance use disorders. The recovery time takes several months to years, depending on the severity of the addiction.

• Medication: Doctors prescribe medications in some cases to help manage withdrawal symptoms or co-occurring mental health disorders with Xanax addiction. The medications include antidepressants or other anti-anxiety drugs. For example, research published in the National Library of Medicine has shown that Flumazenil has shown positive results in treating and managing the withdrawal symptoms of benzo addiction. The duration of medication-assisted treatment lasts for several months or longer, but there is a risk of dependence on other medications.

• Gradual Tapering: Gradual tapering is a process of slowly reducing the dosage of Xanax over time under medical supervision. Gradual tapering helps to minimize withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of severe complications. Gradual tapering is a safer and more comfortable withdrawal process, but it requires a long-term commitment from the patient.

• Support Groups: Support groups are a great option for people with substance use disorders, including Xanax addiction. Support groups give addicted individuals a chance to share their experiences and challenges with people going through the same condition. Support group meetings usually happen weekly or biweekly, and the duration of involvement depends on as long as the person needs to heal.

• In-Patient Treatment: In-patient treatment programs provide a safe in-house environment where individuals receive intensive care for their addiction. The care procedures include medical detox, therapy, and support services in a residential setting. In-patient treatment usually lasts for 30 to 90 days, depending on personal needs. It’s important to keep in mind that in-patient treatment is expensive and requires you to cut down contact with the outside world, including school, work, and social activities.

What is Xanax Withdrawal?

Xanax withdrawal happens when a user who is using Xanax (alprazolam) regularly suddenly stops or reduces their dose. Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine that affects brain chemistry, specifically how our brain manages anxiety. When Xanax or benzodiazepine is taken away, the brain has to adjust, which leads to various withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms start within a few hours after the last dose and peak within a week or two. According to a 2012 study by Hood et al., titled "Benzodiazepine Dependence and Its Treatment with Low-Dose Flumazenil," withdrawal from benzodiazepines lasts anywhere from 5 to 28 days. It is important to get medical help during withdrawal to manage symptoms and avoid serious issues, like seizures and psychosis.

What are the Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms?

The Xanax withdrawal symptoms are anxiety, insomnia, irritability, nausea and vomiting, sweating, tremors, muscle pain, seizures, depression, hallucinations, and psychosis, according to the study “A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal.”

How to Prevent a Xanax Addiction Relapse?

To prevent a Xanax addiction relapse, have a support system, regular visits to your doctor, find healthy ways to cope with stress and anxiety, and stay focused on your recovery.

Having friends, family, or a support group who understand what you’re going through makes a big difference. Regular check-ins with a therapist or doctor help you stay on track. Activities like exercise, meditation, or finding new hobbies will keep your mind busy and reduce cravings.

How Does Xanax Addiction Relate to Co-Occurring Disorders?

Xanax addiction relates to co-occurring disorders by appearing with issues like anxiety, depression, and alcohol use disorder. When someone struggles with both Xanax addiction and another mental health issue, it complicates treatment and recovery and makes it essential to address both problems at the same time.

Does Xanax help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders?

Yes, Xanax can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders. Xanax works by increasing the effects of a neurotransmitter in the brain that leads to calming effects that reduce anxiety. Xanax is prescribed for short-term use in managing anxiety and should be monitored by a doctor to avoid dependency.

Is it possible for individuals to self-medicate their depressive symptoms with Xanax?

Yes, it’s possible for individuals to try to self-medicate their depressive symptoms with Xanax, though it is not recommended. Xanax can temporarily relieve anxiety that coexists with depression but it does not address the root causes of depression and even worsen symptoms over time. Self-medicating can increase the risk of misuse which complicates depression treatment.

Do Xanax and alcohol act as central nervous system depressants?

Yes, both Xanax and alcohol act as central nervous system depressants. Xanax and alcohol slow down brain activity, which leads to relaxation and sedation. These depressants can intensify each other’s effects and to serious risks, especially for individuals with alcohol use disorder.