If you are among the millions of people who take Xanax to treat anxiety, then you may be wondering what to expect during withdrawal. It can be difficult to predict exactly how your body will react, but in this blog post, we will give you a general overview of the symptoms and timeline associated with Xanax withdrawal. Keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different, so it is important to consult with your doctor if you are considering quitting Xanax.
What is Xanax?
Xanax belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which are used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and other emotional issues. Because they can act quickly to produce a calming effect, benzodiazepines like Xanax are often prescribed for short-term use only. Unfortunately, many people end up taking them for longer than recommended, leading to physical and psychological dependence.
How Addictive is Xanax?
Since Xanax is a powerful drug, it can be highly addictive. You may not even realize you have become dependent on the medication until you try to stop taking it. If you do decide to quit, it is important to do so gradually under your doctor’s supervision. Abruptly stopping Xanax can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and other health complications.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax
When you abruptly stop or reduce your dose of Xanax, the body can experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms that are often difficult to manage. Some common ones include:
- Insomnia: Xanax may cause issues with your sleep patterns, making it difficult to fall or stay asleep. Withdrawal can cause insomnia or make it worse, resulting in difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking at night, or a feeling of unrestorative sleep.
- Anxiety: Because Xanax is prescribed to treat anxiety, coming off the drug can result in heightened levels of anxiety. Some people even experience panic attacks.
- Agitation: People who are withdrawing from Xanax can experience physical tension and restlessness, making it difficult to stay still or focus on one task for very long.
- Depression: Depression is common during Xanax withdrawal and can be more severe than before taking the drug. Symptoms may include low energy, thoughts of suicide, and difficulty finding joy in activities that were once enjoyable.
- Headache: Headaches are a common symptom of Xanax withdrawal and can range from mild to severe.
- Nausea & Vomiting: Because Xanax can affect how the body processes food, it is not uncommon for people to experience nausea and vomiting when going through withdrawal.
- Cognitive Issues: Xanax affects cognitive functions, so quitting can cause confusion, poor concentration, and other issues with thinking clearly.
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline
The timeline for Xanax withdrawal varies depending on the individual and how much they have been taking. Generally speaking, withdrawal symptoms will begin within a few days of stopping or reducing the dose. Let’s take a closer look:
- First 24 Hours: The initial symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can come on quickly, often within the first 24 hours. Anxiety and insomnia are the most common early signs.
- 3-7 Days: Over the course of the next few days, you may experience more severe withdrawal symptoms such as depression, headaches, agitation, and cognitive issues.
- 1-2 Weeks: At this point, the majority of your symptoms should start to subside. However, it can still take weeks or months for your body to fully recover from Xanax withdrawal.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with Xanax withdrawal is different and some people may experience more severe symptoms than others.
Medical Detoxification for Xanax Withdrawal
If you are considering quitting Xanax, it is important to seek medical help. While the withdrawal process can be managed without professional help, there is an increased risk of relapse or serious health-related consequences. Medical detoxification in a supervised setting makes this process safer and more comfortable by providing medication and other supportive care.
Conclusion
Xanax is a powerful medication that can be highly addictive. Abruptly stopping or reducing the dose of Xanax can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, depression, agitation, headaches, and nausea. It’s important to seek professional help when quitting Xanax for medical detoxification with supervised care. With treatment and proper supportive care, individuals can successfully manage the withdrawal process.
BlueCrest Recovery Can Help
If you or a loved one is struggling with Xanax addiction, reach out to BlueCrest Recovery Center. Our addiction specialists will help you understand the psychological factors that have contributed to your addiction and teach you skills and tools to overcome them. We will work with you to rebuild damaged relationships and address other issues. We offer flexible non-intensive and intensive outpatient treatment programs that allow clients to receive thorough treatment without taking time away from responsibilities like work or school. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you overcome your Xanax addiction.
