Alprazolam is known by its brand name, Xanax, and is often used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works well for many individuals but can be addictive. Users of Xanax for prolonged durations usually require an increased dosage to achieve the desired impact, which can result in both mental and physical dependence.
Once dependence forms, ceasing medication becomes difficult and distressing. With Xanax, withdrawal can result in severe symptoms from mild anxiety and agitation to panic attacks, tremors, and seizures.
The intensity of withdrawal makes self-quitting extremely difficult for numerous individuals. Preparation with the right tools and strategies for detoxing from Xanax is essential, and knowing what to expect greatly aids in achieving optimal results.
Understanding Xanax Dependence and Addiction
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that works in the body by boosting the activity of a neurotransmitter known as GABA (gamma-amino butyric acid). GABA modulates the activity of nerves and calms nerve irritation and anxiety. This calming effect helps Xanax effectively deal with disorders like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic attacks, and even insomnia.
How Dependence Develops
However, due to the swift and powerful effects of Xanax, tolerance is developed because of the adaptation of the brain. Gradually, a person may begin to notice that their usual dose is not as effective as before, which leads them to increase the amount taken incrementally. This self-perpetuating spiral that increases reliance deepens, making it nearly impossible to suspend the use of Xanax without going into withdrawal.
Can Low Doses of Xanax Cause Withdrawal?
A common misconception is that only high doses of Xanax lead to withdrawal, but this is false. Even people who take low doses of the medication for a few weeks or months can experience withdrawal symptoms. This occurs because the brain has started to depend on the substance to keep feeling calm.
Why Xanax Withdrawal Happens
Xanax withdrawal symptoms stemming from the use of Xanax manifest because of the dependence the brain has on the drug for normal functioning. Discord is created in the brain’s homeostasis during the readjustment period after cessation of the drug, creating an imbalance.
In this case, the person goes through an explosive-controlled calming system. This unleashes anxiety attack syndromes, along with restlessness, grumpiness, muscle twitching, and, in extreme cases, even fits.
Factors That Affect the Severity of Withdrawal
The tenacity of withdrawal symptoms fluctuates according to multiple factors, such as usage period, dosage, and personal body composition. It is reasonable to assume that a person in long-term therapy would experience more significant withdrawal difficulties than someone on short-term treatment. Regardless, even low amounts of Xanax can precipitate withdrawal symptoms, particularly in habitual users.
Symptoms of Xanax Withdrawal
Signs of Xanax withdrawal can vary widely, from mild to severe. Common initial withdrawal symptoms include the following:
- Increased anxiety along with a sense of internal restlessness
- Aggressive irritation and abrupt mood changes
- Sleeping difficulties or waking with insomnia
- Headaches along with jaw, back, and neck muscle spasms
- Queasiness or feeling lightheaded
The following more extreme symptoms may develop as withdrawal continues:
- Severe panic episodes and delusions
- Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
- Shaking and involuntary twitching
- Inability to focus or disorientation
- Increased sensitivity to light and noise
Withdrawal may result in seizures, hallucinations, or psychotic breaks in extreme cases, which pose significant risks without adequate control. These symptoms illustrate the need for proper medical supervision while undergoing a Xanax detox.
Rebound Anxiety During Xanax Withdrawal
One of the most daunting parts of withdrawing is what is referred to as rebound anxiety, where the anxiety symptoms that prompted the use of Xanax return “with a vengeance” far worse than before.
Most people find this phase very challenging, and some may be tempted to resume taking Xanax just to relieve their suffering. Unfortunately, going back to Xanax at this stage may make it harder to quit down the road.
How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?
Because of differences in dosage, period of usage, and individual body metabolism, the Xanax withdrawal timeline differs for each person. Nevertheless, the overriding schedule can be summarized as follows:
Initial Onset of Symptoms (First 6 to 12 Hours)
Signs of withdrawal show themselves within the first 6–12 hours after stopping medication. In this case, anxiety, restlessness, and irritability are frequent. The discomfort experienced in the beginning is, in fact, the body’s reaction to Xanax being absent.
Intensification of Symptoms (Day 2)
It is observed that on the second day of withdrawal, symptoms worsen significantly. The majority suffer from severe insomnia, while others suffer from intense muscle pain and anxiety. A small subset also shows flu symptoms such as frosty heat and sweating.
Subsiding Symptoms and PAWS (After the First Week)
Symptoms usually peak between days three and seven. Seizures, hallucinations, and psychosis manifest during this period, which makes it exceptionally hazardous. Medical mitigation of the complications that can appear suddenly in this phase is recommended.
Post-withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) refers to the extended withdrawal phases some people go through, lasting weeks or even months. PAWS symptoms linger despite the acute withdrawal symptoms starting to lessen after the first week. In this stage, individuals commonly have persistent anxiety, mood fluctuations, and intermittent desires for Xanax.
Why Stopping Xanax Suddenly Is Dangerous
“Going cold turkey” is the term used to describe some people who try to quit taking Xanax “abruptly” without tapering. Stopping Xanax use suddenly can be hazardous and threaten one’s life. The body’s response to the sudden removal of a drug that has been incorporated into its system is dire and can result in excessively painful seizures and even psychosis.
It is advisable from the medical perspective to taper the Xanax step by step. This method helps the brain adjust to the drug’s lower levels, significantly lowering the chance of severe withdrawal symptoms. Different medical detox programs have different structured tapering plans, which usually include medications that ease withdrawal and complications.
The Safest Ways to Detox From Xanax
For those facing difficulties with Xanax withdrawal, obtaining professional help is the most secure choice. Medical detox facilities provide round-the-clock supervision to address withdrawal symptoms and avoid medical emergencies. During treatment, medications like diazepam or clonazepam may be administered to assist in the gradual Elimination of Xanax, optimizing the process’s convenience.
Outpatient Tapering Approach
Outpatient tapering is another approach where a physician gradually reduces the dosage over weeks or months. Although this method can be effective, extreme control and monitoring are required to avoid a relapse.
Holistic and Emotional Support
Apart from medical assistance, therapies like counseling, CBT, yoga, and meditation help in dealing with the emotional aspects of withdrawal. Support groups are also helpful for many individuals, as they allow interaction with others going through similar situations.
Finding the Right Treatment for Xanax Withdrawal
In case you or your loved ones are struggling with dependency on Xanax, here in Silicon Valley Recovery, we have all sorts of treatment options available for you to go through a detox process comfortably and securely. We ensure that you will receive monitored medical detox, maintenance therapy, psychological care services, and other complementary therapies that will allow you to restore control of your life.
With the proper medical care, emotional support, and one’s dedication, recovery from Xanax withdrawal might be tough, but overcoming dependence and living a healthier life is possible. Contact us for assistance if you are prepared to take the first step toward a better life.
FAQs
What to do on Xanax withdrawal?
Obtain medical attention, follow an outlined tapering schedule, keep drinking fluids, and manage symptoms with relaxation methods.
What are the side effects of withdrawal from alprazolam?
Withdrawal from Xanax side effects include irritability, anxiety, insomnia, muscle tension, sweating, or, in extreme instances, seizures or hallucinations.
What is one of the first signs of Xanax withdrawal?
A noted observation increases anxiety and restlessness within hours of the last dosage.
What are the withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepines?
Symptoms include concern, lack of sleep, body aches, shivering, increased perspiration, vomiting, and, in some extreme scenarios, convulsions or loss of contact with reality.
What happens when benzodiazepines are abruptly stopped?
Abrupt cessation can lead to severe withdrawal, including seizures, panic attacks, hallucinations, and potentially life-threatening complications.
