Xanax is a prescription drug that is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is a benzodiazepine, which means that it can be addictive and can cause physical dependence. If you are using Xanax for recreational purposes or abusing it in any way, you may be addicted to it. If you suspect that you have an addiction to Xanax, seek help from a professional immediately.
Xanax abuse is common because it’s easy to get from friends or family members who may have prescriptions for their own use. But even if you don’t know someone who has them, you can buy Xanax on the streets without a prescription. When you take Xanax without a prescription and in higher doses than recommended by your doctor, you’re abusing the drug.
The following are some of the symptoms and signs of Xanax abuse:
- Withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the drug
- Craving for more of the drug
- Taking more of the drug than prescribed by your doctor
- Trouble sleeping or eating while taking this drug
Abuse and Addiction
Xanax abuse and addiction can occur when anyone uses this drug in a way that’s different from its intended use, including taking too much of it or using it for longer than prescribed by a doctor. Xanax has many potential side effects, including confusion, drowsiness, difficulty breathing, low blood pressure and slowed heart rate. If you think someone may have overdosed on Xanax or if they’re showing signs of an overdose after taking Xanax, seek medical attention immediately.
Here are some common symptoms of Xanax abuse and addiction:
- Tolerance: You take more Xanax than prescribed or than you should to get the same effect.
- Withdrawal symptoms: You experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking Xanax. These can include nausea, vomiting, anxiety, and seizures. Some people have hallucinations and psychosis as well.
- Using more than intended: You use more than your prescribed dose or more than you intend to use because it feels good or helps you relax or sleep better.
If you’re using Xanax regularly and taking more than prescribed by your doctor, there are some signs that will tell you if you’re abusing this type of medication:
- You’re taking more of the drug than prescribed by your doctor
- Your tolerance for Xanax is increasing (you need more of it to get high)
- You’re having withdrawal symptoms when not taking the drug
- You feel like life isn’t worth living without Xanax
Identifying your loved one is abusing Xanax
If you have a loved one who abuses Xanax, it can be difficult to tell if they are using the drug because they truly need it or if they are abusing it. The following list will help you determine whether or not your loved one needs help with their Xanax abuse:
- Does your loved one have trouble sleeping?
- Is he or she having trouble focusing or concentrating?
- Has he or she withdrawn from family members and friends?
- Does he or she experience mood swings that seem out of character for him or herself?