Withdrawal from Xanax can be an uncomfortable process that can last for weeks or even months. Addiction to Xanax happens quickly, and depending upon the habits of the user—recreational or long-term—the withdrawal process can be downright arduous. Medically administered and monitored Xanax detox in Atlanta is the safest way to treat withdrawal symptoms while removing Xanax from the body.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is a brand name prescription sedative prescribed for people living with panic and anxiety disorders. It is also prescribed to treat insomnia. Xanax is in a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, or “benzos” for short. Benzos help increase the brain’s production and release of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and calm.
The sedative is available in tablet form in one for different strengths:
- 0.25 milligrams
- 0.50 milligrams
- 1 milligram
- 2 milligrams
Xanax is considered a controlled substance by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is classified as a Schedule IV substance. Schedule IV substances are drugs that contain a risk of being misused and drug dependence.
Originally synthesized in the early 1990s by pharmaceutical manufacturer Upjohn, Xanax was quickly hailed as a miracle drug for effectively relieving anxiety. This excitement was short-lived, as reports of Xanax abuse came to light. Today, Xanax falls somewhere between legitimate prescription pharmaceutical and highly dangerous drug.
What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
Continued use or abuse of Xanax can lead to physical and psychological dependence and eventual addiction. Xanax can experience an increase in the production and release of GABA. Additionally, Xanax stimulates the brain to release dopamine, a “feel good” neurotransmitter found in the brain’s pleasure center.
The brain then remembers this as a desirable behavior, leading to a craving for Xanax to again experience that “high.” The side effects of Xanax offer a window into what daily life for those suffering from drug dependency might be like.
The side effects of Xanax abuse may include but are not limited to:
Physical Side Effects
- Headache
- Lowered heart rate
- Drowsiness
- Low energy
- Intoxication
Mental Side Effects
- Depression
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest in once enjoyed activities
Xanax Dependency
As one grows dependent on Xanax, the body starts building a tolerance to the substance. As this tolerance builds, the effects of the drug are dulled. Unfortunately, this can lead to people increasing their dosage, which can lead to accidental overdose and death. Hence, detox would be important to help them recover from these circumstances.
The signs of Xanax addiction are similar to those of other sedatives. They include but are not limited to:
- • Repeated difficulties with family, work, or school
- • Spending a significant amount of time obtaining or using Xanax, or recovering from the side effects of use
- • An inability to stop using Xanax, despite an ongoing desire to stop using
- • Building a tolerance to Xanax over time, requiring increasing amounts of Xanax per dosage
- • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping use of Xanax, or after reducing the dose
- • Continuing to use Xanax despite negative consequences
The Risks Of Xanax Withdrawal
Like other addictive substances, withdrawals related to Xanax can be difficult. The severity of withdrawal symptoms depends upon both the frequency with which Xanax was used and the volume of that use. Individual factors such as weight, age, and metabolism also play a part.
However, generally speaking, one risks experiencing one or more of the following withdrawal symptoms while undergoing Xanax detox in Atlanta:
- Insomnia
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Muscle aches
- Suicidal thoughts
- Memory problems
- Depression
In addition to knowing the symptoms of Xanax withdrawal, one must also know how long Xanax withdrawal symptoms typically last. While this again depends on the frequency and volume of Xanax a person has been using, one can expect withdrawal symptoms to last between two weeks and two months.
This timeline may also be affected by the method of withdrawal used. For example, a “tapering” method may take longer to play out when compared to the more intense “cold turkey” method. Regardless of the circumstances, most people see the last of their withdrawal symptoms within four months of quitting.
The Importance of Xanax Detox Atlanta for Withdrawal
Depending on the user’s drug history, the process of Xanax detox in Atlanta can be challenging. That said, detox moves through three stages:
Stage 1: Early Withdrawal. This stage occurs within 24 hours of discontinuing Xanax. Initially, symptoms can be as mild as a headache but gradually become more apparent.
Stage 2: Acute Withdrawal. Stage 2 withdrawal begins about 48 hours to four days after the last dose of Xanax. The symptoms will continue to range from moderate to severe in intensity until they peak. The peak period can occur anywhere from five days to two weeks after the last dose. After symptoms peak, they start to subside and are often gone within another two to five days. However, for long-term Xanax use disorders, complete acute withdrawal could take a month or two before all symptoms subside.
Stage 3: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). Some people experience PAWS that can last for several months or even years. PAWS is psychological and emotional withdrawal where cravings for Xanax can be triggered. However, with appropriate treatment, PAWS will pass eventually.
The Importance of Xanax Detox Atlanta for Withdrawal
Depending on the user’s drug history, the process of Xanax detox in Atlanta can be challenging. That said, detox moves through three stages:
Stage 1: Early Withdrawal. This stage occurs within 24 hours of discontinuing Xanax. Initially, symptoms can be as mild as a headache but gradually become more apparent.
Stage 2: Acute Withdrawal. Stage 2 withdrawal beings about 48 hours to four days after the last dose of Xanax. The symptoms will continue to range from moderate to severe in intensity until they peak. The peak period can occur anywhere from five days to two weeks after the last dose. After symptoms peak, they start to subside and are often gone within another two to five days. However, for long-term Xanax use disorders, complete acute withdrawal could take a month or two before all symptoms subside.
Stage 3: Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS). Some people experience PAWS that can last for several months or even years. PAWS is psychological and emotional withdrawal where cravings for Xanax can be triggered. However, with appropriate treatment, PAWS will pass eventually.
Medication-Assisted Treatment for Xanax Detox Atlanta
One of the most effective methods of withdrawal from Xanax involves medication assisted treatment or “MAT.” MAT is a unique, two-fold method of treatment, focusing on administering prescription medication to patients in recovery while also implementing mental health therapy. With MAT, someone can better cope with their mental and physical side effects of withdrawal.
This “whole patient” approach often yields more positive results than any one method of therapy on its own. In addition, MAT is thought to be highly effective for the long-term avoidance of relapse. Maintaining one’s sobriety while focusing on both the mental and physical sides of addiction makes MAT a great tool in empowering people to remain free of drug dependency.
Begin Xanax Detox in Atlanta Today
If you are looking for Xanax detox in Atlanta, the treatment offered by Retreat of Atlanta might be right for you. Our staff of licensed, experienced detox professionals are ready to respond to any inquiries regarding detox and addiction treatment. Addiction to Xanax is dangerous.
Contact us now to take the first step toward lifelong recovery and wellness.
