A study found that over five million adults misused their benzodiazepine prescription in the United States, the drug class behind Xanax.
Xanax abuse has become a growing problem in the country along with the abuse of other prescription drugs. Fortunately, there are many options for Xanax addiction treatment in Los Angeles available for addicts who wish to get better.
What Is Xanax and How Does it work?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that is commonly used for the treatment of anxiety disorders. The drug is considered to be a depressant and has a calming effect on the brain that helps to reduce the symptoms of anxiety.
Benzos work by slowing down the messages between nerve cells in the brain. This reduces the physical symptoms of anxiety such as shaking or trembling, racing heart rate, and difficulty breathing.
Generally, patients that are suffering from sleep problems, panic attacks, and seizures are prescribed Xanax.
What Are the Symptoms of Xanax Withdrawal?
Addicts who have become physically dependent on Xanax will probably experience withdrawal symptoms when they suddenly stop taking it.
Dependence on benzos is referred to as benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome.
Dependence mainly develops in addicts that have taken the drug for extended periods or taken it in a way other than prescribed.
Data shows that about 40% of people who use Benzos for long periods will experience moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking the drug. With the remainder suffering milder withdrawal symptoms.
As Xanax depresses the central nervous system, the withdrawal symptoms can be similar to those of other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol.
Physical signs and symptoms of benzo withdrawal include:
- Tremors
- Muscle pain
- Muscle spasms
- Hyperventilation
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Headaches
- Sweating
- Hypersensitivity to lights
- Abnormal bodily sensations
Psychological signs and symptoms of benzo withdrawal include:
- Irritability
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Panic Attacks
- Hallucinations
- Depression
- Delirium
- Seizures
- Lack of focus
- Memory lapses
Xanax Addiction Treatment
Even though benzo addiction can be difficult to manage, there are treatment programs available that can help overcome addiction. In most cases, people who are addicted to Xanax need long-term treatment that includes some form of residential care.
Detox and inpatient treatment are the most efficient treatments to overcome Xanax addiction.
Assisting detox is vital for Xanax users who exhibit signs of withdrawal, as the condition could be life-threatening. It can’t be overstated how important it’s to have a medical professional present who is there to assist the addict during this process and provide them with the right medication.
Common treatments include:
- Detox: During detoxification, the body is cleansed of toxins and medical dependence is cut off under medical supervision.
- Inpatient Treatments: Provides patients with 24/7 care and medical professionals to assist the addict
- Tapering Down: Gradually reducing doses will help avoid more severe and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms of benzos such as seizures.
Good rehab centers for Xanax addiction treatment in Los Angeles will offer these treatment options as part of their programs. In addition, most programs will require that patients attend individual therapy sessions as well as group therapy sessions.
Why Detoxing at Home May Be a Bad Idea For An Individual With Xanax Addiction
People addicted to Xanax may find it risky to detox at home. Withdrawal symptoms could be life-threatening if not properly cared for.
Not having access to medical staff or prescription drugs to help them through the withdrawal process could be dangerous. It is most effective to undergo detoxification in a rehabilitation setting under the supervision of a recovery expert.
Furthermore, a treatment facility will provide the patient with tools and programs that will help them ease into recovery and maintain it after they leave the premises.
Getting Help
If you or a loved one has been abusing Xanax it is important that you seek professional treatment, as self-treatment can be dangerous and ineffective.
At 90210 Recovery, we offer experienced and professional expertise along with our Xanax addiction treatment in Los Angeles that ensures you or your loved ones get the care needed to stay sober, long after leaving our facility. Contact 90210 Recovery to learn more about what you can do to help your loved one stay sober.
