Xanax is one of the most widely used — and abused — psychiatric drugs in the United States. Forbes Magazine lists Xanax, or alprazolam, as the number one psychiatric drug in the US, with close to 50 million prescriptions for it written every year. This benzodiazepine acts rapidly to relieve acute anxiety, prevent panic attacks or relieve the symptoms of anxiety-related disorders like irritable bowel syndrome. But because tolerance and chemical dependence can develop quickly, Xanax is recommended only for short periods of time and only when it’s needed.
A Growing Trend
Xanax is popular not only among people with a legitimate prescription, but for recreational users in search of a quick high. Within minutes, Xanax calms the nerves and soothes tension by stimulating the receptor cells in the brain that bind with the neurotransmitter GABA. GABA is a chemical produced naturally by the body, which slows down the activity of the brain and nerves.
When Xanax is taken for non-medical reasons, it can cause drowsiness, sedation, intoxication or euphoria, depending on how much of the drug the user takes and how it is taken. With so many prescriptions written for this anti-anxiety agent, Xanax is readily available and easy to access. Many recreational users obtain the drug from friends or family members or buy Xanax on the streets. Generic versions of the drug are available from online suppliers.
In fact, alprazolam is one of the most frequently abused prescription drugs in the country, according to statistics gathered by the University of Texas. National trends show that Xanax is one of the top drugs of abuse in major urban areas like Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington D.C. and South Florida. The National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) reveals that between 2001 and 2005, alprazolam was the most commonly reported prescription drug found in forensic labs around the country.
Methods of Abuse
Xanax is available in disintegrating oral tablets and in extended-release tablets. The drug is absorbed rapidly by the body, and the average user will experience the full effects within one to two hours. Xanax can be abused in the following ways:
- By taking the drug without a doctor’s prescription
- By taking more than the recommended dose
- By taking the drug more frequently than it’s been ordered
- By crushing the tablets and snorting or injecting them
- By combining Xanax with alcoholic beverages
- By taking Xanax with other benzodiazepines, pain relievers or sedatives
- By taking Xanax to calm down after taking a central nervous system stimulant like cocaine
On the black market, Xanax is known by a number of slang terms, including “xanies,” “X’s,” “planks” and “bars.” Xanax is often taken along with other drugs, either to intensify its sedative properties or to counteract the effects of another substance, like meth or cocaine. Combining Xanax with alcohol or other substances that depress the central nervous system increases the chance of dangerous side effects like excessive sedation, loss of consciousness, low blood pressure, coma and death.
When to Seek Help
If you suspect that someone in your life is abusing Xanax, or you’ve been using it recreationally yourself, Michael’s House is here to help. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be dangerous, causing severe anxiety, convulsions and life-threatening seizures. With professional support and medical supervision, recreational users can withdraw from Xanax safely.
Our comprehensive rehab program guides you through the recovery process with services like individual counseling, group therapy, family counseling and aftercare. Call our toll-free number to find out how we can help you rebuild your life.
