Xanax is a medication often prescribed to help people who suffer from anxiety or panic attacks. It’s a strong drug that helps calm the mind and body, making you feel more relaxed. The main ingredient in Xanax is called Alprazolam, which belongs to a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
These drugs work by increasing the activity of a chemical in the brain called GABA, which helps to slow down the brain’s activity, leading to a calming effect. While Xanax can be very helpful for short-term relief, using Long-Term Effects of Xanax Use can cause serious problems. Many people don’t realize the dangers that come with long-term use, leading to dependence and other health issues from xanax.
Why Do People Take Xanax Long-Term?
There are many different factors that can lead to prolonged use of Xanax in a given individual’s life. Some people start consuming it in the wake of extensive physiological repair processes while others simply like the high from the substance and develop an addiction. Then the body gets accustomed to the drug, leading to the use of higher doses such as more Xanax, to achieve the same effects as before. This phenomenon is known as “tolerance”.
Physical Health Effects of Long-Term Xanax Use
Xanax affects your brain and body in Long period of Time. Here are some of the common physical health problems:
- Drowsiness and Fatigue: Long-term users often feel tired all the time, even if they sleep a lot.
- Weight Changes: Some people may gain weight, while others might lose it.
- Dizziness and Coordination Issues: It can become harder to move around, and some people feel unsteady on their feet.
- Respiratory Problems: Xanax can slow down your breathing, especially if mixed with other substances like alcohol.
- Organ Damage: Over time, using Xanax can put stress on your liver and kidneys, which can lead to damage.
- Heart and Circulatory System: Xanax can affect your heart rate and blood pressure, sometimes causing it to drop too low.
Buy Xanax online without a prescription poses significant health risks, including potential addiction and overdose. Additionally, it can lead to legal charges, as purchasing controlled substances without a prescription is illegal in many jurisdictions.
Mental Health Effects of Long-Term Xanax Use
Long-term Xanax use doesn’t just affect your body; it can also change the way your brain works. Here are some of the ways it can impact your mental health:
- Memory Problems: It can become hard to remember things, and you may forget even simple tasks.
- Trouble Concentrating: You might find it difficult to focus on work, conversations, or other activities.
- Cognitive Decline: Over time, Xanax can slow down your thinking process, making it harder to solve problems or make decisions.
- Depression: Some people become more depressed when using Xanax for a long time.
- Increased Anxiety: Surprisingly, Xanax can actually cause more anxiety in the long run, even though it’s meant to treat it. 5 Harmful Effect Anxiety Impacts Your Body.
- Mood Swings: You might feel irritable, angry, or sad for no apparent reason.
Dependence and Addiction
What’s the Difference Between Dependence and Addiction?
- Dependence happens when your body gets used to having Xanax in its system. If you stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.
- Addiction means you feel a strong urge to keep taking Xanax, even if it’s causing harm to your life, health, or relationships.
Signs of Xanax Addiction:
- Taking more Xanax than prescribed
- Trying to get more Xanax from different doctors or buying it illegally
- Feeling anxious or stressed when you don’t have Xanax
- Continuing to use it even when it causes problems at work, school, or home
The Dangers of Mixing Xanax with Other Substances
Mixing Xanax with alcohol, opioids, or other drugs can be extremely dangerous. It can slow down your breathing, heart rate, and even lead to overdose or death.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Long-Term Xanax Use
If you stop taking Xanax suddenly, you might experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous. Common Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Shaking and sweating
- Feeling extremely anxious or panicked
- Having trouble sleeping
- Feeling sick to your stomach
- Muscle pain and stiffness
Important Note: Never try to quit Xanax on your own without talking to a doctor. It’s crucial to get professional help because withdrawal can be life-threatening in some cases.
The Impact on Daily Life and Relationships
Long-term Xanax use can have a big impact on your daily life. Here’s how it can affect you:
- Relationships: You may find yourself arguing with family and friends more often. People might feel worried about your health or become upset with your behavior.
- Work or School: It can become hard to concentrate, remember things, or stay motivated, which might lead to poor performance.
- Financial Problems: Spending money on Xanax, especially if you’re getting it illegally, can cause financial stress.
- Legal Issues: If you’re caught buying or using Xanax without a prescription, you could face legal consequences.
Seeking Help and Treatment for Long-Term Xanax Use
Recognizing that you need help is a big step. If you or someone you know is struggling with Xanax use, there are treatment options available:
- Medical Detox: Doctors can help you safely remove Xanax from your body while managing withdrawal symptoms.
- Inpatient Rehab: This is a program where you stay at a treatment center and receive support 24/7.
- Outpatient Rehab: You visit a treatment center regularly but continue living at home.
- Counseling and Therapy: Talking to a therapist can help you understand why you started using Xanax and teach you ways to cope without it.
- Support Groups: Joining a group like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide support and encouragement from others who are going through the same thing.
Conclusion
Xanax is effective in managing anxiety and panic disorders, however, it presents some risks when prescribed long term as it can cause adverse health issues like addiction and dependence. Awareness about the risks involved is pertinent and seeking professional help is equally important especially if it is someone close like a friend or a family member suffering from xanax abuse disorder. Try to be always optimistic because there is always hope for recovery and one does not need to despair about their tomorrow.
FAQ:
Q1: What are the most common long-term side effects of Xanax?
A: The most common long-term side effects of Xanax include memory problems, trouble concentrating, drowsiness, fatigue, and potential damage to organs like the liver.
Q2: How long can someone safely take Xanax?
A: Xanax is usually meant for short-term use, typically a few weeks to a couple of months. Taking it for longer periods increases the risk of dependence and other health issues.
Q3: Is it possible to stop using Xanax on your own?
A: It’s not safe to stop using Xanax suddenly, especially if you’ve been taking it for a long time. Always talk to a doctor before trying to quit.
Q4: Can long-term Xanax use cause permanent damage?
A: In some cases, long-term use can cause lasting effects, especially on the brain and liver. However, getting help early can prevent further damage.
Q5: How can I help a loved one who is struggling with Xanax dependence?
A: Be supportive and encourage them to seek professional help. You can also offer to help them find treatment programs or support groups.
This guide is meant to provide you with a better understanding of the long-term effects of Xanax use and to encourage anyone struggling to seek help. Recovery is always possible with the right support!
Q- What is the highest dosage of Xanax that can be prescribed?
The highest prescribed dosage of Xanax (alprazolam) is typically 4 mg per day, divided into multiple doses as prescribed by the doctor .
