Like all medications, Xanax can be accompanied by some negative side effects. Whether or not someone experiences these Xanax side effects will depend largely on the individual person as well as any other drug interactions.
Xanax Side Effects to Be Aware Of
Xanax is a brand name for the drug alprazolam. This type of benzodiazepine or benzo suppresses the central nervous system and is prescribed to treat anxiety disorders. Because anxiety is so common,Xanax was found to be the third most frequently prescribed psychiatric drug in the United States. 1
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Xanax Adverse Effects
Like all medications, Xanax can be accompanied by some negative side effects. Whether or not someone experiences these Xanax side effects will depend largely on the individual person as well as any other drug interactions. People who mix benzos and alcohol can sometimes have serious problems and put themselves at risk. Especially if you have an unhealthy relationship with drinking, you should detox from alcohol before taking this drug.
Some Xanax side effects may include:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Weight changes
- Lethargy
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Sleep problems
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Poor concentration
- Memory problems
- Addiction
The extent of these side effects of Xanax varies, so it is important to talk to your prescribing doctor immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
Long-Term Xanax Abuse Side Effects
Not everyone will take this medication as prescribed and others will use this drug without a formal prescription in order to ease their anxiety and help them relax. For anyone who abuses this drug, addiction is a real concern. Like other benzodiazepines, Xanax is typically only prescribed for the short-term treatment plans for this reason, and stopping use immediately could lead to serious side effects from Xanax withdrawal. Most doctors will create a benzo detox plan to limit these problems.
Unfortunately, even with these warnings, some people will misuse this medication and, over time, their body could become dependent on it. One estimate suggests that 17.1% of benzodiazepine users, like those taking Xanax, misuse these drugs.2
When Xanax is abused, these side effects can develop into more serious health problems because the medication is no longer being taken as prescribed. Long-term side effects of Xanax and benzodiazepine abuse may include:
- Increased risk of car accident
- Hip fractures
- Poor reaction time
- Decreased coordination
- Memory problems
- Overall cognitive decline
- Ataxia – degenerative nervous system disease
- Risk of overdose3
If you or someone you love is abusing Xanax or another benzodiazepine, get help. Our benzo addiction treatment in Illinois helps people quit these drugs safely and learn how to deal with their anxious feelings without them. Neglecting to get treatment and ignoring the Xanax side effects from abuse could lead to serious and lasting problems that may not be able to be reversed.
Our drug detox center in Illinois has been helping people overcome their substance abuse and find lasting sobriety.
To begin your journey today or to learn more about our programs at Banyan Heartland for someone you care about, do not wait to reach out. Call us today at 888-280-4763.
Sources:
- Scientific American - 1 in 6 Americans Takes a Psychiatric Drug
- NIH - Research suggests benzodiazepine use is high while use disorder rates are low
- American Family Physician - Risks Associated with Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use
