How does Xanax affect depression and anxiety. What are the potential risks of using Xanax long-term. Can Xanax cause or worsen depression symptoms. Is Xanax safe for treating insomnia and other disorders. How does Xanax impact suicide risk in patients with depression.

What is Xanax and How Does it Work?

Xanax, known generically as alprazolam, is a widely prescribed benzodiazepine medication. In 2011 alone, it was prescribed nearly 48 million times in the United States. Xanax is commonly used to treat several conditions:

• Anxiety disorders
• Panic disorder
• Insomnia
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Agoraphobia
• Depressive disorders

Xanax works by enhancing the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that naturally calms the brain. By increasing GABA activity, Xanax helps reduce excessive nervous system stimulation, leading to a calming effect. This mechanism makes it effective for managing anxiety and panic symptoms.

While Xanax can provide relief for many patients, its use comes with potential risks and side effects that need careful consideration. One of the most concerning potential side effects is its impact on mood, particularly the risk of causing or exacerbating depression.

The Complex Relationship Between Xanax and Depression

Depression is a serious mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities. In 2013, approximately 15.7 million American adults experienced a major depressive episode, highlighting the prevalence of this condition.

The relationship between Xanax and depression is complex and multifaceted. While Xanax is sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety symptoms that co-occur with depression, it can also potentially cause or worsen depressive symptoms in some individuals.

Can Xanax cause depression?

Yes, Xanax can potentially cause depression as a side effect, particularly with long-term use or abuse. The depressant effects of Xanax on the central nervous system can sometimes lead to mood changes, including the development of depressive symptoms. This risk may be higher in individuals who are predisposed to depression or have a history of mood disorders.

Why might Xanax lead to depression?

Several factors contribute to the potential development of depression in Xanax users:

1. Chemical changes: Xanax alters brain chemistry, which can affect mood regulation.
2. Tolerance and dependence: Long-term use can lead to tolerance, requiring higher doses for the same effect, potentially increasing the risk of side effects like depression.
3. Withdrawal symptoms: Attempting to stop Xanax use can result in withdrawal symptoms that mimic or exacerbate depression.
4. Underlying conditions: Xanax may unmask or worsen pre-existing depressive tendencies.

The Interplay Between Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression often co-occur, complicating both diagnosis and treatment. Research has shown a significant overlap between these conditions:

• 85% of people diagnosed with depression also meet the criteria for generalized anxiety disorder
• 35% of depressed individuals show signs of co-occurring panic disorder

This high comorbidity rate underscores the complexity of treating mood disorders and the potential risks of using medications like Xanax, which may alleviate anxiety symptoms but potentially exacerbate depressive ones.

Long-Term Xanax Use: Risks and Considerations

While Xanax can be effective for short-term management of anxiety and panic symptoms, its long-term use raises concerns among healthcare professionals. Guidelines suggest that benzodiazepines like Xanax are safest when used for no longer than six weeks. However, many patients continue to receive prescriptions for extended periods.

How common is long-term Xanax use?

A study in Oregon revealed that out of 1.9 million benzodiazepine prescriptions filled in 2013, 45% of patients refilled their medication for at least three consecutive months. This pattern of extended use increases the risk of developing tolerance, dependence, and potentially depression.

Why do some patients continue long-term Xanax use?

Several factors contribute to prolonged Xanax use:

• Symptom relief: Patients may experience a return of anxiety symptoms when attempting to discontinue the medication.
• Withdrawal effects: Stopping Xanax can lead to withdrawal symptoms that mimic anxiety and depression, leading patients to believe they still need the medication.
• Prescribing practices: Some healthcare providers may continue to refill prescriptions without regularly reassessing the need for ongoing treatment.

Xanax and Suicide Risk: A Serious Concern

One of the most alarming potential side effects of Xanax, particularly in the context of depression, is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. This risk is especially pronounced in individuals who abuse Xanax or combine it with other substances.

How significant is the suicide risk associated with Xanax?

While exact statistics on Xanax-related suicides are difficult to determine, research has shown concerning trends:

• From 2005 to 2011, emergency room visits for drug-related suicide attempts increased by 51%.
• Benzodiazepines like Xanax are a contributing factor in 30% of overdose deaths involving prescription painkillers.

These statistics highlight the importance of careful monitoring and risk assessment for patients prescribed Xanax, especially those with a history of depression or suicidal ideation.

Xanax Abuse and Polydrug Use: Amplifying the Risks

The risks associated with Xanax, including its potential to cause or exacerbate depression, are significantly increased when the drug is abused or used in combination with other substances. Polydrug use involving Xanax is particularly dangerous and can lead to severe adverse effects.

What are the most common substances abused alongside Xanax?

The most frequent and dangerous combinations include:

1. Opioids and Xanax: This combination significantly increases the risk of respiratory depression and overdose.
2. Alcohol and Xanax: Alcohol enhances the depressant effects of Xanax, potentially leading to severe central nervous system depression.

How does polydrug use impact the risk of adverse effects?

Combining Xanax with other substances can:

• Amplify the depressant effects on the central nervous system
• Increase the risk of overdose and death
• Exacerbate mood disturbances, including depression
• Complicate withdrawal and treatment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, alcohol was a contributing factor in 27.2% of emergency department visits involving benzodiazepines and 21.4% of overdose deaths involving drugs like Xanax.

Age-Related Risks and Xanax Use

The potential risks and adverse effects of Xanax use, including its impact on mood and depression, can vary significantly based on a patient’s age. Recent research has highlighted important age-related considerations in Xanax use and abuse.

How does age affect the risks associated with Xanax use?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, individuals aged 65 and older face a 36% greater risk of serious outcomes from benzodiazepine abuse compared to those between the ages of 12 and 34. This increased risk in older adults may be due to several factors:

• Changes in metabolism and drug processing with age
• Increased likelihood of polypharmacy and drug interactions
• Greater susceptibility to cognitive side effects
• Higher risk of falls and fractures

Why is Xanax use in older adults a particular concern?

Older adults are more likely to be prescribed benzodiazepines like Xanax for various reasons, including anxiety, insomnia, and general health concerns. However, this population is also more vulnerable to the potential negative effects of these medications, including:

1. Increased risk of cognitive impairment and dementia
2. Greater likelihood of adverse drug reactions
3. Higher risk of developing dependence
4. More severe withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation

These age-related risks underscore the importance of careful prescribing practices and regular monitoring of Xanax use in older adults, particularly when considering the potential impact on mood and depression.

Alternative Approaches to Managing Anxiety and Depression

Given the potential risks associated with long-term Xanax use, especially concerning its impact on depression, it’s crucial to consider alternative approaches for managing anxiety and mood disorders. Many effective options exist that may provide relief without the risks associated with benzodiazepine use.

What are some alternatives to Xanax for managing anxiety and depression?

Several evidence-based approaches can be effective:

1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of psychotherapy helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors.
2. Mindfulness and meditation: These practices can help reduce anxiety and improve mood by promoting present-moment awareness and relaxation.
3. Exercise: Regular physical activity has been shown to have significant benefits for both anxiety and depression.
4. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): These antidepressants can be effective for both anxiety and depression without the risks associated with benzodiazepines.
5. Herbal supplements: Some natural remedies, such as chamomile or valerian root, may help with mild anxiety symptoms, though their efficacy varies.

How effective are these alternatives compared to Xanax?

The effectiveness of these alternatives can vary depending on the individual and the severity of their symptoms. However, many studies have shown that approaches like CBT can be as effective as medication for treating anxiety disorders, with longer-lasting benefits and fewer side effects. Combining multiple approaches, such as therapy and lifestyle changes, often yields the best results.

It’s important to note that any changes to medication or treatment plans should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Abruptly stopping Xanax can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and should never be attempted without medical supervision.

The Importance of Proper Diagnosis and Treatment

The complex relationship between Xanax, anxiety, and depression underscores the critical importance of accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning. Misdiagnosis or improper treatment can lead to worsened symptoms and potentially dangerous outcomes.

Why is accurate diagnosis crucial when considering Xanax treatment?

Proper diagnosis is essential for several reasons:

• Distinguishing between anxiety and depression: Symptoms can overlap, making accurate differentiation crucial for effective treatment.
• Identifying co-occurring disorders: Many individuals experience both anxiety and depression simultaneously, requiring a comprehensive treatment approach.
• Assessing suicide risk: Proper evaluation can help identify individuals at higher risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
• Determining the most appropriate treatment: Not all anxiety or depressive disorders respond equally to Xanax or other benzodiazepines.

What steps should healthcare providers take to ensure proper treatment?

To provide the best care for patients with anxiety and depression, healthcare providers should:

1. Conduct thorough psychological evaluations
2. Consider the patient’s full medical and psychiatric history
3. Assess for substance abuse or potential for abuse
4. Discuss all treatment options, including non-pharmacological approaches
5. Regularly monitor patients for side effects and symptom changes
6. Implement a plan for gradual discontinuation of Xanax if prescribed

By taking these steps, healthcare providers can help ensure that patients receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for their specific needs, minimizing the risks associated with Xanax use while maximizing the potential for symptom relief and improved quality of life.

Depression, Insomnia & Suicide Risk

With so many people in need of an effective treatment for these issues, it isn’t surprising that Xanax alone was prescribed nearly 48 million in 2011, per Psych Central. Xanax is a brand name for generic alprazolam, which is routinely prescribed for the treatment of:

• Anxiety
• Panic disorder
• Insomnia
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Agoraphobia
• Depressive disorders

Xanax works by calming nervous impulses in the brain caused by firing neurotransmitters. The drug increases the dispersion and flow of GABA, which are natural tranquilizers the body already makes. The drug merely ramps up production of them. This central nervous depressant can cause euphoric feelings, but it typically soothes unruly and out-of-control emotions. Sometimes, it can work a little too well in certain individuals and cause adverse reactions, including depression.

What Is Depression?

Depression is classified as a disorder that inflicts the sufferer with feelings of worthlessness, despair, lethargy, and a general lack of interest in life. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, 15.7 million American people experienced a major depressive episode during 2013, making it one of the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorders in the country. This disorder can be born out of chemical imbalance, hormone issues, or brought about by substances.

In substance-induced situations, the depression generally resolves once the substance abuse stops. However, there are instances in which prolonged use or abuse of Xanax may cause lasting depression even in the absence of its use. In addition, when you have one disorder, it is more likely you will develop others. Thus, those individuals who suffer from anxiety may also develop depression.

Psych Central notes the results of one study in which 85 percent of people diagnosed with depression also fit the criteria for generalized anxiety disorder, and 35 percent had signs of co-occurring panic disorder. This may be even more likely in people who use or abuse Xanax.

Can Xanax Cause Depression?

Unfortunately, some prescribing physicians may be perpetuating the cycle of abuse when it comes to benzodiazepines like Xanax.

While it is known that these drugs are safest when used for no longer than six weeks, many doctors continue to allow patients multiple refills for far longer periods of time. The Bend Bulletin notes 1.9 million prescriptions were filled for Oregon residents in 2013, and 45 percent of them refilled their medication at least three months in a row.

Often, symptoms of anxiety can lead to depressive symptoms, too, and Xanax may be prescribed to treat the original symptoms. Depression and anxiety are cited as primary reasons for drug abuse among 63 percent of older adults, per the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence. While many may begin using these medications in a prescribed fashion to treat their symptoms, those same symptoms may resolve over time but the individuals remain medicated. When they attempt to come off the drug and familiar symptoms return, they assume they still need them, but sometimes, it’s merely that the drug itself, and dependence on it, causes feelings of depression and anxiety to manifest during withdrawal.

Adverse Reactions of Xanax

The most serious side effect of depression caused by Xanax is suicide. Drug-related attempts at suicide appear to be on the rise as a whole. From 2005-2011, the number of people treated in emergency rooms as a result of these attempts rose by 51 percent, per the Drug Abuse Warning Network. Among overdose deaths stemming from prescription painkiller abuse, benzodiazepines are a contributing factor in 30 percent of cases, PBS reports.

The likelihood of adverse mood reactions like depression occurring is significantly increased when Xanax is abused in conjunction with other substances. The most common cocktail is benzos and opioids, but alcohol abuse alongside Xanax is also very dangerous. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes 2010 data from 13 states showed alcohol was a contributing factor in 27.2 percent of emergency department visits involving benzos and 21.4 percent of overdose deaths involving drugs like Xanax.

Alcohol use presents enough of a risk that even moderate amounts are not advised, even when taking Xanax as prescribed. People who crush and snort Xanax rather than ingesting it orally are at greater risk of overdose, too.

An individual’s age may also have a lot more to do with the potential outcomes of abusing Xanax than originally thought. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, serious outcomes stemming from benzo abuse carry a 36 percent greater risk for individuals aged 65 and older than for those between the ages of 12 and 34.

Likewise, there may be reason to believe the risk of depression increases over the years of an individual’s life. Suicide occurs more than twice as often among people aged 80-84 than in the general population, WebMD notes.

Effective Care

Getting help for an addiction means you have the courage to admit you need treatment and the fortitude to overcome this hurdle. That’s something to be proud of. You can use those feelings to drive yourself forward during the rehabilitation process, which should start with a medical detox program that is geared toward tapering the dose of Xanax you’ve been abusing until you are completely drug-free. Additionally, support groups and individual therapy should be combined into your treatment plan to give you the best chance at sustained recovery.

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Depression

xanax

Last Updated on Sep 8, 2022

Xanax Uses: Side Effects and Interactions

Table of Contents

1. WHAT IS XANAX?
2. WHAT IS XANAX USED FOR?
3. SIDE EFFECTS OF XANAX
4. XANAX INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS
5. XANAX OVERDOSE
6. THERAPIES FOR ANXIETY
7. Resources

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WHAT IS XANAX?

Those who are looking for mental health medication may be asking themselves “what is Xanax used for?” The drug Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is an SSRI and popular antidepressant used to treat the symptoms of anxiety. Like other benzodiazepines, this medication is a sedative. Xanax for anxiety is only one use for the drug. Over forty-eight million prescriptions for Xanax were filled in 2019 to treat a variety of mental illnesses.¹

Generic Name

Alprazolam is the generic name for Xanax, but it’s also marketed as Alprazolam Intensol. There is no difference in the effects of alprazolam, regardless of name.

How Long Does Xanax Last?

Xanax for anxiety and other mental illnesses lasts for up to six hours.² This type of drug becomes noticeable in the system within about twenty minutes. It can be taken for immediate relief or may have a delayed-release mechanism to last throughout the day.

WHAT IS XANAX USED FOR?

As one of the most prescribed antidepressants drugs, Xanax has a variety of uses. Here are the most common.

FDA–Approved Uses

Anxiety: Anxiety is a mood disorder that causes intense feelings of worry, doubt, and nervousness. These feelings persist despite external factors like having a happy work/life balance, positive relationships, etc. The damage from chronic anxiety can reduce the quality of life and health. Xanax for anxiety and other illnesses counteracts these feelings by stimulating GABA receptors in the brain. GABA produces calming effects in the brain.

Panic disorder: Panic disorders refer to a frantic, fearful state of mind that can lead to elevated breathing and heart rate. A person with anxiety has a higher chance of developing panic disorders and vice-a-verse.

Non–FDA–Approved Uses

Because of the versatile nature of stimulated GABA receptors, Xanax is used to treat more than panic and anxiety disorders. Here are the most common non-FDA-approved uses.

Insomnia: Because Xanax is a sedative similar to most antidepressants, it produces feelings of sleepiness and relaxation. As such, it can treat several sleep disorders, including insomnia, restless leg syndrome, and any other disorders that prevent decent sleep.

Premenstrual Syndrome: Premenstrual syndrome, better known as PMS, is a series of hormonal changes and symptoms that occur in women before their menstrual cycle begins. These changes can cause restless sleep. Should they persist, then Xanax is used as a long-term treatment.

Depression: Depression is a negative mental state characterized by poor mood, impaired cognitive function, and a bevy of other complex symptoms. Leading a fulfilling life with untreated depression is difficult, if not impossible. The condition affects millions of people in the U.S. every year and leads to several severe and long-term symptoms. Xanax for depression helps soothe the symptoms of the illnesses.

Xanax Dosage for Anxiety

The Xanax dosage for anxiety and depression varies based on medical history, gender, age, and other individualized factors. Here are the most common dosages.

The daily dosage of Xanax for anxiety is 4mg. Alprazolam is effective even if anxiety is a symptom of different disorders such as depression or ADHD. The drug is typically taken in the morning and afternoon and lasts throughout the day.

Panic disorders require a dosage of up to 6mg per day. However, the higher dosage runs the risk of improving tolerance to the drug, which in turn reduces effectiveness. Like Xanax for anxiety, the medicine is taken twice per day.

SIDE EFFECTS OF XANAX

Xanax side effects are most noticeable in the beginning as the body adjusts to the medication. However, they will persist if Xanax is taken over a period. Should you experience severe side effects for any length of time, then speak with your medical provider. That said, here are the most common Xanax side effects:³

• Drowsiness
• Lightheaded
• Headaches

Changes in sex drive

Anti-depressants can lower your sex drive. However, this side effect can ease over time. Additionally, a set routine of exercise and a healthy diet can counteract this symptom entirely.

Weight gain/loss

Because Xanax changes your hormonal balance, you may be more prone to lose or gain weight. However, it’s unlikely that the change will be significant in either direction. Speak with your doctor about alternatives if your weight changes too much, too soon.

Short temper

A short temper does not mean you will turn every conversation into a shouting match, but it can make you noticeably less patient. Being aware of this change and speaking with your doctor can help with this side effect. Often, Xanax is prescribed with therapy. Use your therapy to discuss any new feelings you may have.

Lethargy

Lethargy differs from drowsiness as it’s defined more by a lack of energy than sleep. A lethargic person may get a full night’s rest but still feel unable to get out of bed in the morning. Lethargy can also be a sign of depression. Speak with your doctor if this side effect persists.

Other Effects

Other side effects of Xanax use can include the following:⁴

Seizures: A Xanax or antidepressant allergy can disrupt brain signals resulting in seizures and labored breathing. Seizures, when left untreated, can lead to permanent brain damage and accidental harm. That said, seizures caused by Xanax are rare and typically only occur in the case of allergy or a co-occurring, undiagnosed illness.

Poor Coordination: More than dizziness, poor coordination can result in accidental injury and make it difficult to accomplish everyday tasks.

Yellow Skin: An excess of Xanax can impair the liver resulting in yellow skin, eyes, and severe tiredness.

XANAX INTERACTIONS WITH OTHER DRUGS

Xanax most commonly negatively interacts with drugs that have CYP3A in them. CYP3A is a liver-based enzyme used to break down chemicals. CYP3A drugs include antihistamines (cough medicines), antidepressants, and antifungals, to name a few.⁴

In addition, Xanax should not be mixed with alcohol as the combination of sedatives can cause labored breathing, sleep issues, and drug dependency. Always discuss your diet and any medications you use with a medical professional before starting Xanax to prevent any drug interactions.

Liver Problem Medications

Because Xanax, and other antidepressants, interact so heavily with liver enzymes, it serves to reason that Xanax interacts poorly with liver medications. Although rare, the medication can cause liver damage that counteracts liver medication. Common Xanax side effects of liver problems include fatigue, abdominal pain, and it occurs within one month of starting the medication.

XANAX OVERDOSE

Xanax overdose can occur accidentally if the anxiety pills are taken in excess or mixed with other substances such as alcohol. Here are the most common causes of Xanax overdose.

Tolerance

Tolerance occurs with any substance. Eventually, the efficacy of the dosage will reduce, and a higher dosage will be needed. It occurs up to a point where the risk of the dosage outweighs the benefits provided by the drug. Should a person abuse their tolerance or misjudge it, Xanax overdose can occur.

Dependence

Dependence occurs when the drug is frequently taken over time. Dependence can come with Xanax cravings that may manifest as not being able to function without the drug. In a state of dependence, a person may take more of the drug than is recommended.

Withdrawal

Typically, anti-anxiety medication isn’t abruptly stopped. Instead, the dosage is reduced to null to slowly wean a person off the drug. In extreme cases, Xanax withdrawal can result in seizures and increased mood instability.

THERAPIES FOR ANXIETY

Anxiety injection medicine and Xanax for anxiety disorders aren’t for everyone. There are alternative, natural methods for individuals who are unwilling or able to take Xanax for anxiety.

CBT

Cognitive-behavioral therapy, or CBT, is a form of therapy designed to change a person’s bad habits. It helps instill healthy coping mechanisms and provides cognitive tools to help ease the symptoms of anxiety.

Family Therapy

Family Therapy is a form of talk therapy that helps create a healthy support system to counteract mental illness. It involves gathering all relevant family members in a therapeutic environment to discuss, in-depth, the mental illness affecting a person.

A Mission for Michael is dedicated to your mental health. Our therapists specialize in mental health and help create individual treatment plans for all our clients. Getting help is only the first step.

Maintaining positive mental health and fostering a solid support system is a life-long endeavor. We are here every step of the way. Reach out for more information.

Resources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5846112/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538165/
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684001.html
4. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2011/018276s045lbl.pdf

Antidepressant Xanax: how does the medicine look and act on the body?

Contents:

1. What is
2. Mechanism of action
3. Effects
4. Use by drug addicts
5. Narcotic effect
6. Dependency building
7. Overdose

Alprazolam (Xanax medicine) is used for the treatment of neuroses characterized by insomnia, constant anxiety, fear and a general deterioration in the emotional state. It helps relieve muscle cramps, relieve anxiety and symptoms of depression. It is prescribed by a doctor with great care and in the minimum dosage.

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Bulkin Alexey Vladimirovich
General Director of the VERIMED Clinic, Psychiatrist-narcologist

What is it

The drug belongs to the group of atypical benzodiazepine tranquilizers. What does Xanax look like? These are small oblong white tablets. Each blister contains 10 pieces, and in total there are 3 blisters in a pack.

As an antidepressant, Xanax is prescribed for:

• Neurosis. In particular, in OCD and other similar diseases accompanied by severe anxiety and obsessions.
• Somatic problems. For example, with a sharp weight loss on the background of an affective disorder or in violation of the stool (one of the indications for taking is constipation).
• Depression. It is allowed to take the drug in reactive-depressive and anxiety-depressive states, accompanied by a decrease in energy, suicidal thoughts (it seems to a person that he is not needed by anyone, there is a feeling of guilt), psychomotor agitation, loss of interest in life.

May be used in emergency situations. For example, it is prescribed for painful regular panic attacks , which are manifested by lowering blood pressure, increased heart rate, sweating and intense irrational fear. Usually in parallel, the patient uses paroxetine or other antidepressants.

Alprazolam leaves the body 24 hours after ingestion.

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Mechanism of action

How does Xanax work? The principle of operation of the drug is associated with inhibition of the cortical and subcortical structures of the brain. Through chloride channels and through their benzodiazepine receptors, the drug acts on gamma-aminobutyric acid and its metabolism.

Effects

Taking the medication promotes an anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effect. Alprazolam not only relieves a panic attack, accompanied by both a mental component and somato-vegetative symptoms, but also perfectly removes anxiety – in particular, the expectation of panic.

Another effect is muscle relaxant. The use of promotes relaxation of the skeletal muscles. As a result, tension is relieved, excitation (including motor) is gone.

Also, has an anticonvulsant effect. It is characterized by the suppression of excessive activity of motor neurons in the brain. The gait gradually improves (becomes less shaky), the tremor of the upper and lower extremities disappears, and normal physical activity is restored.

In the short-term treatment of panic disorders, Xanax has proven itself quite well. But in medical practice, there are often cases of abuse.

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Use by drug addicts

The antidepressant Xanax is often taken by drug addicts who use psychostimulants – substances that “accelerate” the central nervous system and change the metabolism of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin. During the “waste” in such patients, sleep is disturbed, there is a pronounced excitement. They use Alprazolam to calm the nervous system.

Narcotic effect

How does Xanax work? This is a very serious drug. Its affinity for the benzodiazepine receptor is 3 times stronger than that of typical tranquilizers.

Many addicts experience long-term flashbacks even after stopping the medication. This is manifested in the fact that for no reason at all a strong anxiety rolls in , there is a need for new medication measures to restore the normal activity of the brain.

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Formation of dependence

On the background of withdrawal, severe withdrawal symptoms develop. First, sleep is disturbed. A person may wake up and fall asleep several times during the night. He sleeps superficially, reacts to any irritants (for this reason, after sleep there is no feeling that there was a rest). Some complain about nightmares or attacks of sleep paralysis (otherwise this condition is called the old witch syndrome).

Then the course of panic attacks gets worse. They often occur at night and are characterized by high intensity. For example, waking up, the patient cannot understand where he is. Heart begins to beat wildly, breathing becomes difficult. There is a strong fear of death.

Some people develop symptoms of depersonalization and derealization. Approximately 50–70% of addicts is diagnosed with a generalized disorder , which is characterized by the fact that people do not want to work (study) or go out. Looks like Xanax is taking away their will to live.

Paranoia becomes aggravated in some patients, they begin to listen to their body. Various hypochondriacal ideas emerge, often centered on the thought of a terminal illness. The typical symptoms of an anxiety disorder seem suspicious to them. For example, with an increase in heart rate, they think that a little more – and the heart will stop. With headaches, they are sure that they are on the verge of a stroke.

Some patients develop senestopathies (unpleasant painful sensations that have no objective reasons for their occurrence), which the sufferers cannot explain in any way. To alleviate the condition, a person takes a dose. He does not inform his doctor. Addiction develops quite quickly. It is for this reason that psychotherapists do not recommend taking the medicine for longer than 2-3 weeks.

Overdose

High doses cause depression of the central nervous system. In severe cases, breathing stops (in 80% of patients this occurs in a dream), against which death occurs.

In people suffering from heart or vascular diseases, with uncontrolled use of the drug, severe coma is diagnosed , requiring urgent administration of antidotes and long-term restorative therapy.

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Literature:

1. Strategy and tactics for choosing treatment methods in psychiatric practice (the role and place of psychopharmacotherapy). Davydov A. T., Agishev V. G. – Reviews of clinical pharmacology and drug therapy – 2008 – No. 3.
2. The use of modern antidepressants in certain neurological diseases. Sapphirova V. A., Guseva E. V. – Almanac of Clinical Medicine – 2001 – No. 5.
3. Anxiety disorders in adolescents. Korabelnikova E.A. – Medical Council – 2018 – No. 12.

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Xanax – the anti-stress effect that drives you to your grave one hundred people a day.

Article content

• Xanax effect
• Xanax fashion
• Depression and patriotism
• Stress culture , then information about the passion for the drug “ Xanax ” is rare becomes the subject of media attention.

  Xanax effect

  For many Americans, such a pill helps to gather strength and feel like a different person, and therefore it is worth considering in more detail how such a drug taken for anxiety leads people to the grave.

  According to doctors, the active substance alprazolam contained in Xanax allows you to quickly induce relaxation and relieve tension, as well as eliminate any feeling of anxiety and anxiety. Such a pill, placed under the tongue, allows you to instantly forget about the troubles at work, but such a drug has several rather unpleasant features.

  First of all, addiction to the drug occurs, as a result of which more and more is needed to achieve the corresponding effect. In addition, alprazolam causes a decrease in respiratory rate, as well as heart rate, and if taken together with heroin or fentanyl, the risk of death increases dramatically. Nearly a third of Xanax-related deaths occurred as a result of co-administration of the drug and opioids.

  How to love yourself and not become a selfish person

  It is worth noting that the main difference between benzodiazepines and other drugs that simply “cut down” the body in case of an overdose is that they erase memory, while leaving the opportunity to act. Thus, people who have taken Xanax can walk the streets for quite a long time and attack people, as well as arrange accidents, sitting behind the wheel of a car, and many, being in a helpless state, become victims themselves.

  Xanax fashion

  The image of Xanax, which is a tablet divided into four parts, gradually entered popular culture, and rapper Lil Pump, who received a million followers on Instagram, even solemnly cut the cake in the form of a similar tablet.

  It is worth noting that benzodiazepines have been found in the bodies of performers such as Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson, as well as Whitney Houston. Xanax was the start of a genre of rap that has come to be known as “Soundcloud rap,” a name that refers to the way musicians in a “relaxed” state tend to upload their creations to the popular SoundCloud resource. On the Etsy website, those who wish can purchase jewelry made in the form of the corresponding tablets.

  Depression and patriotism

  The history of benzodiazepines began in 1941, when the pharmaceutical company Hoffman-LaRoche sent several employees to the USA. The forerunner of Xanax was Miltown, a drug accidentally synthesized as part of a laboratory research process designed to relax muscles. The drug allowed me to feel self-confidence and make decisions quickly. In 1963, Roche develops Valium by launching an advertising campaign for women, offering to forget about stress and mood swings with a single pill.

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  The drug, which was sold for one hundred million dollars, became a real hit, but after a while information began to appear about its harmful properties, and it was argued that addiction to the novelty could be even worse than heroin, as a result of which punishment was introduced for illegal drug trade. It is noted that those who took Valium resembled zombies, and the drug itself was rather slowly excreted from the body.

  After some time, a formula of Xanax was invented, which allows not only in the fight against panic attacks, but also suitable for everyday tasks, and the drug, unlike Valium, was excreted from the body in a few hours. Many have taken Xanax instead of seeing a psychotherapist, given the fact that modern life brings dozens of things to worry about.

  The culture of stress

  The main victims of anti-anxiety drugs are not Hollywood stars, but ordinary Americans, and the constant intake of recognizable pills has become for many an innocent habit, like a glass of good wine with dinner. Such popularity of the drug is due to the fact that it acts as quickly as possible, while the effect of full-fledged antidepressants taken by the course is felt only after two or even three weeks.

  The most interesting thing is that Xanax craze, as well as Valium, often occurs in those who eat organic food and take a morning jog, and also, in a fit of madness, refuse to vaccinate their own children.