Xanax – the popular anti-anxiety medication that millions rely on. But lurking behind its calming effects is a darker reality: the potential for addiction.
How quickly can casual use spiral into dependence? What factors influence addiction risk? And what are the warning signs to watch for?
We can help. Let’s answer the question, how long does it take to get addicted to Xanax?
What is Xanax?
Xanax is a prescription medication known as a benzodiazepine. It is primarily used to help with anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and, in some cases, depression-related anxiety.
It works by boosting the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid in a person’s brain, which helps to produce a calming effect. This makes it effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks, allowing individuals to feel more relaxed and less overwhelmed by stress.
Xanax is available in various dosages, typically prescribed in tablet form. It is known for its rapid onset of action, with effects often felt within 15 to 30 minutes after ingestion.
Short Term Use
Short-term use generally refers to a period of a few weeks, during which the medication is prescribed at the lowest useful dose to reduce the risks and signs of drug dependence.
However, even within a short time frame, a person’s body can start to develop a tolerance to Xanax. Tolerance occurs when the same dose of the medication produces diminishing effects, leading some individuals to feel the need to increase their dosage to achieve the same level of relief.
This escalation, even over a few weeks, can set the stage for physical dependence. Although short-term use under medical guidance is generally considered safe, it’s essential to follow the prescribed dosage closely. Communicate any concerns to a healthcare provider.
Long Term Use
When Xanax is taken over extended periods, the body and brain adapt to its presence, leading to tolerance and Xanax addiction signs. Tolerance means that the initial dose becomes less effective over time, prompting the individual to take higher and higher doses to get the same calming effects.
For people who have been using Xanax long-term, tapering off the anxiety medication under medical supervision is often necessary. It will help you avoid severe withdrawal symptoms and to address the underlying mental health issues that led to its prolonged use.
High Doses
At high doses, Xanax’s impact on the brain’s neurotransmitters is more profound, which can result in a faster development of tolerance.
The risk of severe withdrawal symptoms is also heightened with high doses. When a person tries to reduce or stop taking Xanax after using high doses, that person’s body, which has become accustomed to the drug, may react violently.
Recreational Use
When Xanax is used recreationally, the goal is often to experience the drug’s calming or euphoric effects quickly. This can lead to behaviors like:
- Crushing and snorting pills
- Combining Xanax with other substances such as alcohol
- Taking multiple doses of Xanax in a short period
These practices dramatically increase the drug’s potency and can result in a dangerous level of central nervous system depression, leading to respiratory issues, loss of consciousness, overdosing on the drug, or even death.
Xanax Addiction Factors
Some factors can increase the possibility of developing an addiction to Xanax. People with a personal or family history of substance abuse are at a more pronounced risk for Xanax addiction.
Genetics affect a person’s predisposition to addiction. Those who have struggled with alcohol or drug dependency in the past may find themselves more susceptible to becoming addicted to benzodiazepines like Xanax.
Anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders are often treated with Xanax, but these same conditions can also increase the risk of addiction. People with mental health issues may be more inclined to misuse Xanax to self-medicate.
Chronic stress, whether due to work, personal relationships, or life circumstances, can drive individuals to rely on Xanax as a coping mechanism. The drug’s calming effects may become a crutch, particularly in high-stress situations, which can quickly lead to tolerance and dependence.
Younger individuals, especially teenagers and young adults, may be more prone to experimenting with Xanax, putting them at a higher risk for addiction. The brain is still developing during these years, and exposure to addictive substances can have lasting effects on brain chemistry.
Risks of Xanax Addiction
Xanax addiction carries significant risks that can impact both physical and mental health, and even your overall quality of life.
Long-term use of high doses can cause damage to important body organs, including the liver and kidneys, due to the body’s need to metabolize the drug. Additionally, the sedative effects of Xanax can slow down respiratory and cardiovascular functions.
Users may experience problems with memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. This cognitive impairment can persist even after discontinuing the drug, making it difficult to perform daily tasks, maintain employment, or manage personal responsibilities.
In severe cases, long-term users may develop benzodiazepine-induced cognitive disorders, which can be difficult to reverse.
Signs of Xanax Addiction
Recognizing the signs of Xanax addiction early is crucial for seeking timely help and preventing the addiction from worsening.
People addicted to Xanax often become preoccupied with the drug, spending lots of time thinking about when they can take their next dose, how they will obtain more, or how to hide their use from others. This obsession can interfere with daily activities, work, and personal relationships.
Misusing Xanax by taking it more frequently than prescribed, taking larger doses, or using it for reasons other than what it was prescribed for, are clear signs of addiction. Some may also resort to doctor shopping, visiting multiple healthcare providers to obtain additional prescriptions.
As addiction progresses, people may begin to neglect their responsibilities at work, school, or home. They may frequently call in sick, miss important deadlines, or fail to fulfill their obligations. This decline in performance and reliability can lead to significant personal and professional consequences.
People addicted to Xanax often go to great lengths to hide their use from others. They may lie about their drug use, hide pills in secret places, or avoid situations where their use might be discovered. This secrecy can strain relationships and create a sense of isolation.
Trying and Failing to Quit
Repeated unsuccessful attempts to quit or cut back on Xanax use are a common sign of addiction. Despite wanting to stop, the individual may find themselves unable to do so because of intense cravings or the fear of withdrawal symptoms.
How Quickly Can Addiction Development?
The speed at which addiction to Xanax can develop varies from person to person, but it can happen surprisingly quickly under certain conditions. Even when Xanax is used as prescribed, some individuals may begin to develop tolerance within just a few weeks.
The frequency with which Xanax is taken also impacts how quickly addiction can develop. Taking Xanax daily or multiple times a day can lead to faster tolerance and dependence development.
Everyone’s body chemistry is different, meaning some people may become addicted to Xanax more quickly than others. Factors such as genetics, overall health, and struggling with other mental health conditions can influence how fast addiction develops.
For some, dependence on Xanax can begin to take hold in as little as a few weeks, while for others, it may take several months of regular use.
Xanax Addiction Treatment Options
Given the complexity of benzodiazepine addiction, it’s crucial to seek expert help to ensure a safe and effective recovery process.
The first step in fighting back against Xanax addiction is often medical detoxification, or detox. During detox, the body is gradually weaned off Xanax to reduce withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
This process is typically conducted under medical supervision, where healthcare professionals can manage symptoms and provide medications to ease the discomfort. In some cases, a tapering schedule is used, where the dosage of Xanax is slowly reduced over time to minimize withdrawal effects.
For those with a severe addiction or who require a controlled environment to recover, inpatient rehabilitation programs are highly effective. These healthcare programs provide round-the-clock care in a structured setting, letting people focus entirely on their recovery.
Inpatient rehab typically includes a combination of:
- Medical care
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Meditation
- Exercise
- Nutritional counseling
This immersive environment helps patients build a strong foundation for long-term sobriety.
In some cases, medications may be used to help manage withdrawal symptoms, reduce cravings, and support long-term recovery.
While there are no medications particularly approved for treating Xanax addiction, other medications may be prescribed to help manage co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety or depression, which can help stabilize the individual during recovery.
Long-Term Recovery From Xanax Addiction
Once you’ve gone through initial treatment, you’ll need to work to keep up your sobriety. Support groups provide a community of individuals who are going through similar experiences.
These groups offer emotional support, shared experiences, and accountability, which can be super important during the recovery process. Regular attendance at support group meetings can help people stay sober and connected to others who understand the challenges of overcoming addiction.
Developing healthy coping strategies and making positive lifestyle changes are essential components of long-term recovery. This may include incorporating stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or exercise into daily routines.
Establishing a balanced diet, regular sleep schedule, and engaging in meaningful activities can also help rebuild physical and mental health. Learning to manage stress and anxiety without relying on Xanax is a key goal of recovery, and ongoing therapy can support this process.
You’ll also want to have a plan in case of relapse. Developing a relapse prevention plan involves identifying triggers such as:
- Stress
- Certain environments
- Emotional states
- Particular relationships
- Life events
That may lead to cravings or a return to drug use. Having a solid support system, including friends, family, and healthcare providers, is crucial for navigating these challenges. Talking to a specialized therapist or counselor can also help reinforce coping strategies and provide ongoing encouragement.
Long-term recovery requires a commitment to change and a belief in the possibility of a better future. It’s important to remain patient and persistent, understanding that Xanax addiction recovery is a journey with ups and downs.
Preventing Xanax Addiction and Safe Use
The most crucial step in preventing Xanax addiction is to follow the prescription guidelines provided by your healthcare provider. Take the medication only as directed, without increasing the dose or frequency on your own.
If you feel that your current dosage is not providing the same level of relief, consult your doctor rather than adjusting it yourself. They can assess whether a change is necessary or if alternative treatments should be considered.
Combining Xanax with other substances, particularly alcohol or opioids, majorly increases the risk of overdose and addiction. These substances can exacerbate the sedative effects of Xanax.
Xanax should only be taken by the person for whom it is prescribed. Sharing your medication with others is not only illegal but also dangerous, as they may have different health conditions, medication regimens, or risk factors for addiction that could lead to severe consequences.
If someone else is struggling with anxiety, encourage them to seek medical advice rather than sharing your prescription.
Booking regular appointments with your healthcare provider can help monitor your use of Xanax and catch any early signs of dependency. These check-ins give you a chance to discuss any concerns, adjust your treatment plan if necessary, and explore other therapeutic options.
In addition to medication, non-pharmacological treatments like:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Mindfulness practices
- Lifestyle changes
can be highly effective in managing anxiety. These approaches can reduce your reliance on Xanax and help you develop healthier coping mechanisms, lowering the risk of addiction.
How Long Does It Take to Get Addicted to Xanax? Now You Know
How long does it take to get addicted to Xanax? It can depend on a bunch of diverse life and health factors. It’s important to monitor your use and talk to an addiction specialist in your area if you notice any warning signs.
Are you looking into your addiction treatment options? Reflections offers evidence-based treatment and five-star amenities to get you back to your healthiest and happiest self.
Contact us today.
