Depending on how a medicine works on a person, it may be listed as a controlled drug. This is influenced by whether the substance is suitable for non-medical use and whether it has the potential to cause addiction. This is why many prescription drugs are controlled drugs by DEA definition.
In this article, we will talk about a popular drug like Xanax. You will learn about what it is and why it should be taken with great caution.
Why is Xanax a controlled drug?
Xanax is the trade name for the benzodiazepine alprazolam, which has been used for the past several decades to treat anxiety and panic attacks. It is the most prescribed medication of this type in the United States.
Xanax is categorized as a controlled substance. Itis a Schedule IV drug:
- it has a low abuse potential and low risk of addiction compared to Schedule I-III drugs;
- in the same line with Xanax are drugs such as Valium, Ativan, Lunesta, Klonopin, etc., which must also be used under a doctor’s supervision;
- it has the potential to be addictive;
- and it can be fatal in overdoses or in combination with other substances such as opioids.
This is why Xanax can only be obtained with a prescription, which is only valid for six months. The prescription can be renewed no more than 5 times during this period.
Despite Schedule IV, Xanax should be taken with caution: for a limited period of time and in doses recommended by a doctor. Otherwise, first psychological and then physical dependence may develop. The good news is that it can be treated – you can find a suitable rehab center that offers Xanax addiction treatment. But it is better to just be careful with the drugs and avoid abuse.
Characteristics of Xanax use
If this drug is used in strict accordance with the recommendations of doctors after undergoing a full examination, there is much more benefit than harm from it. It shows itself well as a remedy for symptomatic treatment of anxiety disorders.
But the problem is that many people like the state that excessive Xanax use induces: relaxation and sedation – by increasing the concentration of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. This is why it is often purchased illegally without a prescription and used recreationally. The danger is that the drug in this case quickly causes addiction, which is very difficult to treat.
In order for you to fully understand that Xanax is dangerous, the following facts can be cited as arguments:
- towards the end of the drug, it is necessary to gradually reduce its dose to avoid withdrawal symptoms;
- in some cases, detoxification may be required even if taken by prescription;
- the combination with opioids and alcohol can lead to death.
Addiction develops quickly. It is enough to exceed the dosage once or to take the drug longer than prescribed.
Symptoms of addiction
A person abusing Xanax will, in most cases, hide their addiction and deny its effects. At first, this may not have any obvious manifestations. But as the dosage increases, the changes will be stronger and more severe.
The main symptoms of Xanax addiction include:
- drowsiness and fatigue even after sleep;
- secrecy that was not characteristic before;
- frequent visits to doctors to get prescriptions;
- complaints of constant headaches;
- withdrawal from school, work or family responsibilities;
- sudden mood swings;
- nausea or vomiting;
- slurred speech when diction was fine before;
- and impaired coordination of movements.
Any of these symptoms is a reason to pay closer attention to the person. If responded to in a timely manner, he or she can be helped by being sent to a suitable drug rehab center for treatment.
Xanax addiction treatment
In most cases, prescription drug addiction treatment must be accompanied by outside help. Self-treatment at home is virtually impossible – relapse can occur as early as the second day of Xanax withdrawal.
Patients have two main options: treatment in outpatient or inpatient settings. In the first case, it will be necessary to periodically visit a clinic or hospital to get the necessary help, in the second case – to stay in a rehabilitation center for some time, usually a month.
The treatment of such addiction is based on the use of detoxification, medication and various therapies. Detoxification is necessary to gradually remove alprazolam from the body to minimize the damage caused by withdrawal symptoms. Along with this, medications to relieve pain and stress may be prescribed. Cognitive behavioral therapy can help you change your thinking and learn to cope without medication.
Support groups have been proven to work well. They are important not only at the main stage of treatment, but also in the post-rehabilitation period. Regular attendance at Narcotics Anonymous groups is one of the most effective ways to prevent addiction.
