Xanax Addiction: The Truth About The Risks Of Xanax Use

Although treatment outcomes are comparable to that of other chronic conditions, recovery is an ongoing process that can take time. Research has shown that when used alongside tapering, CBT is effective in reducing benzodiazepine use over a 3-month period. You might wonder if it’s drugs or something different, such as a demanding job or a stressful life change. While it’s hard to quantify how much tuci is entering the North American drug supply, it has been detected in Vancouver, New York, Miami and in several European countries.

Treatment centers provide those suffering from Xanax addiction the support they need to find and maintain recovery. Taking more than the prescribed dosage or using Xanax without a prescription is considered abuse of the drug. However, even those who follow a prescription can fall victim to Xanax addiction and abuse. Recognizing Xanax addiction signs and symptoms can help you know when to seek treatment for yourself or a loved one.

Behavioral Symptoms of Xanax Usage and Abuse

Wandler is the chief medical officer of Advanced Recovery Systems, which operates rehab facilities across the United States. Alprazolam has a half-life of 12 hours, which means it takes 12 hours for half of the dose to clear the bloodstream. Withdrawal symptoms can be felt within six hours of the last dose.

Long-acting benzos, such as Klonopin or Librium (chlordiazepoxide), may be substituted for Xanax during tapering. Urine screenings, which are sometimes used during treatment to encourage abstinence, can detect Xanax for up to a week after last use. Dependence occurs when a person experiences physical or mental withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking a substance.

How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?

Xanax is a short-acting drug, which means your body metabolizes it very quickly. Tapering Xanax is challenging because the amount of the drug in your system quickly goes up and down with each dose. To help you avoid these peaks and valleys, doctors often xanax addiction switch you from Xanax to a long-acting benzodiazepine such as Valium (diazepam). Many people experience irritability and agitation, which can cause problems at home, work, or school. You might be easily annoyed or short-tempered with family or friends.