As a fast-acting treatment for anxiety and panic disorders, Xanax is one of the fastest growing prescription drugs on the market today. But along with its growing popularity, Xanax has become notorious for its dependence-inducing qualities and the quickness with which users develop tolerance. The good news is that a growing number of addiction treatment facilities are recognizing this trend, and Xanax addiction recovery is now an option.
How Xanax addiction develops
Most doctors who prescribe Xanax make an effort not to give patients excessive doses of the drug. However, many patients become so dependent on Xanax to combat their anxiety that they end up taking more than what is prescribed. People who are predisposed to addiction are especially susceptible to Xanax abuse, and many people feel that they can’t control it. It’s a true addiction; once you’re in its throes, it’s hard to stop.
While some people manage to take Xanax in the long-term without negative effects, others find that regular Xanax usage leads to unwanted side-effects such as libido changes, appetite problems, hyperactivity, or chronic fatigue. If you’ve had any of these problems, you might consider entering Xanax addiction recovery.
How Xanax addiction recovery works
Initially, the effects of Xanax withdrawal can be severe, including everything from anxiety and mood swings to dizziness and heart palpitations. That’s why most doctors recommend that you don’t try to stop taking Xanax without medical supervision. Work with your doctor to bring down your doses and to possibly mitigate the withdrawal effects with replacement drugs. If your addiction is particularly severe, you can ease the process by going through a Xanax addiction recovery center, where your detox and withdrawal will be carefully monitored.
Fortunately, Xanax doesn’t stay in the body for as long as some other addictive medications. Expect the withdrawal symptoms to peak in a day or so, and then they should be completely out of your system within 72 hours. However, the negative effects don’t stop completely after this time, and you’ll need to work closely with your doctor or treatment professionals to ease you into the next stage of life.
