Xanax Addiction Abuse

Table of Contents

Snorting Xanax (alprazolam) can be dangerous and is not a recommended method of use. Alprazolam is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that is prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It is typically taken orally as a tablet or liquid, but some people may crush and snort the drug in an attempt to get a faster and more intense high.

Xanax Statistics

Xanax is a prescription medication that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States. Some statistics about Xanax use and abuse include:

  • In 2018, alprazolam (the active ingredient in Xanax) was the fifth most commonly prescribed psychiatric medication in the United States, with over 50 million prescriptions.
  • Xanax is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine in the United States, accounting for over 50% of all prescriptions.
  • Benzodiazepines, a class of medications that includes Xanax, were involved in over 31% of overdose deaths involving prescription opioids in the United States in 2018.
  • In 2018, nearly 10% of high school seniors in the United States reported using Xanax for non-medical purposes at least once in their lifetime.
  • Xanax abuse is more common among young adults and adolescents than among other age groups.

It is important to use Xanax only as directed by a healthcare professional and to be aware of the risks of abuse and addiction.

women with hands to her face

Side Effects of Snorting Xanax

Snorting Xanax can lead to a number of dangerous and potentially life-threatening side effects. When the drug is absorbed through the nasal membranes and into the bloodstream, it can cause a rapid and intense euphoria. However, it can also lead to a number of negative effects, including:

  • Drowsiness and sedation
  • Dizziness and lightheadedness
  • Memory problems and difficulty concentrating
  • Slurred speech
  • Decreased coordination and balance
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Difficulty breathing

Snorting Xanax can also increase the risk of overdose, which can be deadly. Symptoms of an overdose may include extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness. If you or someone you know is experiencing an overdose, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Dangers of Abusing Xanax

Abusing Xanax can lead to a number of dangerous and potentially life-threatening consequences. Some of the dangers of Xanax abuse include:

  • Dependence and addiction: When taken in large doses or for a long period of time, Xanax can be habit-forming and can lead to physical dependence. People who are dependent on Xanax may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug, such as anxiety, tremors, and irritability. Xanax abuse can also lead to addiction, which is characterized by an inability to control one’s use of the drug, cravings for the drug, and continued use despite negative consequences.

 

  • Overdose: Taking large doses of Xanax can lead to an overdose, which can be deadly. Symptoms of an overdose may include extreme drowsiness, difficulty breathing, and loss of consciousness.
  • Cognitive and physical impairment: Xanax is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. When taken in high doses or in combination with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, Xanax can impair cognitive and physical function, increasing the risk of accidents and injuries.

 

  • Interactions with other medications: Xanax can interact with a number of other medications and may increase their effects, leading to serious side effects or overdose. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting treatment with Xanax.

 

  • Psychological problems: Long-term Xanax abuse can lead to psychological problems, such as anxiety, depression, and psychosis.

The Risks of Opiates

Opiates can be dangerous because they can be misused and cause addiction for the user.  Addiction can be fatal and the withdrawal comes with terrible consequences

women with blue lighting and pill in her mouth

What are Some Misconceptions about Snorting Xanax?

There are several misconceptions about snorting Xanax (alprazolam) that may lead people to engage in this dangerous behavior. Some of these misconceptions include:

  • Snorting Xanax is more effective: Some people may believe that snorting Xanax will produce a faster and more intense high. However, this is not true. When taken orally, Xanax is absorbed through the digestive system and into the bloodstream, where it can take effect within an hour. When snorted, the drug is absorbed through the nasal membranes and into the bloodstream, which may lead to a more rapid onset of effects. However, snorting Xanax can also lead to a number of negative side effects, such as difficulty breathing and an increased risk of overdose.
  • Snorting Xanax is safer: Some people may believe that snorting Xanax is a safer way to use the drug because it avoids the liver, where the drug is metabolized. However, snorting Xanax can be dangerous and is not a safe method of use. It can lead to a number of negative side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination, and can increase the risk of overdose.
  • Snorting Xanax is not detectable: Some people may believe that snorting Xanax will not show up on drug tests because it is not being taken orally. However, this is not true. Xanax can be detected in the bloodstream through blood or urine tests, regardless of how it is taken.

 

What Does Xanax Addiction Look Like?

People who abuse Xanax by taking it in ways other than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting the pills or taking higher doses than recommended, may be at increased risk of developing an addiction.

An addiction to Xanax can manifest in a number of ways. Some signs that someone may be struggling with a Xanax addiction include:

  • Taking higher doses of Xanax than prescribed or taking the drug more often than directed
  • Continuing to use Xanax despite negative consequences, such as problems at work or in relationships
  • Experiencing cravings for the drug and a strong desire to keep taking it
  • Struggling to control one’s use of the drug, despite attempts to cut back or stop
  • Spending a lot of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of Xanax
  • Neglecting responsibilities or activities in favor of using Xanax
  • Developing tolerance to the drug, meaning that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects

If you or someone you know is exhibiting these behaviors, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. 

How Can Embrace Treatment Help You?

In conclusion, there is definitely help if you are willing to try.  If you or a loved one are currently struggling with Alcoholism / Alcohol Addiction, it is important to look for treatment as soon as possible.  The effects of this disease can be fatal, not only for the abuser, but to the possible innocent samaritans around them.  Inpatient Rehabilitation for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services are available at Embrace Treatment Center.  As well as providing the necessary care, we provide activities to keep clients engaged and motivated.  As Embrace Treatment Center’s clients begin their journey to recovery, our team of specialists ensures they have the support and resources they need.  Click HERE to learn more about how to get help for yourself or your loved one.  There are so many resources that can make searching for help overwhelming, let us help you begin your recovery journey.

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