Current government research has estimated that the abuse of prescription drugs, such as Xanax, has doubled over the last decade. Now more than 75 percent of the substances abused illegally in the US are prescription drugs. Xanax is one of the more addictive prescription medications on the market today.
Xanax (also known on the street as “upjohns,” “z-bars” or “bar-white pills”) is meant to treat disorders related to depression, anxiety, panic and sleep. It contains chemical properties that once ingested are sedative and anticonvulsive as they relax the muscles throughout the body. Xanax comes in a pill form in both instant and extended release versions. It is supposed to be swallowed whole, but individuals with an addiction may choose to crush it and then either chew it, inject it or sniff it. Xanax leads to potentially lethal effects much easier if it has been crushed, especially for the extended release tablet. The extended release Xanax when broken dumps all the medication into the system at once instead of slowly over time as intended. This can cause an overdose much more quickly than the standard pill.
Although many people who use Xanax as prescribed can develop a problem, generally, an addiction develops because a person is using it with the intention of getting high. People abuse Xanax for its calming, euphoric effect on the mind and body. The drug acts directly on a person’s central nervous system by reducing the speed at which the neurotransmitters works in the brain. Tolerance to Xanax builds rapidly so a larger quantity of the drug is needed to get the same effect. A Xanax addict can easily obtain the drug illegally either through online stores or from street dealers.
Signs Your Loved One Needs Xanax Rehab
You may have a feeling your loved one needs rehabilitation for a problem with Xanax, but are not quite positive. There a variety of physical and behavioral signs and symptoms to look for that will alert you to the fact they need the help of a professional Xanax rehab center. If you recognize the following physical issues and behaviors in your loved one then Xanax addiction treatment may be the next necessary step.
Physical Signs of Xanax Addiction:
- Excessive drowsiness
- Incoherent speech
- Mental confusion
- Depressed breathing
- Low blood pressure
- Depression
- Light-headedness
- Memory loss
- Poor concentration
- Lack of coordination
- Cramps
- Nausea
- No appetite
Behavioral Signs of Xanax Addiction:
- When unable to find Xanax or attempting to stop using it withdrawal symptoms are experienced such as increased heart rate and sweating, heart palpitations, unable to sleep, exacerbated anxiety, or seizures
- Difficulties with close relationships due to Xanax use
- Poor performance at work or school due to Xanax use
- Prefers to use Xanax rather than engage in hobbies or other activities they once enjoyed
- Monetary problems because of money spent on Xanax
- Unable to stop using Xanax when they legitimately attempt to stop
Xanax Treatment Options for Your Loved One
Even though Xanax is a prescription medication, it is a potentially lethal substance when abused. Luckily there are many successful Xanax rehab choices for your loved one who is in need of help. Numerous rehabilitation options are available for both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs.
It is extremely dangerous to try to stop Xanax on your own once a physical dependence has taken hold. A detox with experienced medical professionals is the first step in Xanax rehab no matter which type of program you choose. Once the physical addiction is put to rest then counseling in a variety of forms is offered to help your loved one understand what psychological factors helped to perpetuate their desire to use Xanax.
You can play a vital role in helping your loved one recover by participating in family counseling and supporting their recovery process. You can partner with physicians and other support staff to monitor your loved one’s progress while in rehab and after they return home. This support can help them move through their treatment program as smoothly as possible and give them the best chance of avoiding future relapse.
Finding a Guide to Xanax Addiction Treatment
Searching all your Xanax addiction rehab center options, on the Internet can be an overwhelming task. Don’t try to navigate all the treatment options alone. Give us a call today and our professionally trained staff can guide you to a top-rated rehab center that will best suit the needs of your loved one. Take advantage of all the information we have to offer and contact us today.
