Xanax Strengths: A Comprehensive Guide to Dosage, Side Effects, and Uses

23.07.202328.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the different strengths of Xanax available. How does Xanax dosage vary for different conditions. What are the potential side effects and interactions of Xanax. How should Xanax be taken safely and effectively.

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Understanding Xanax: An Overview of the Medication

Xanax, known by its generic name alprazolam, is a prescription medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class of drugs. It is primarily used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks in adults. Xanax works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that helps calm the brain and nervous system.

Xanax is available in immediate-release tablet form, with various strengths to accommodate different treatment needs. It’s important to note that Xanax is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence, requiring careful prescription and monitoring by healthcare providers.

Conditions Treated by Xanax

Panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
Generalized anxiety disorder requiring immediate treatment

Xanax Strengths and Formulations

Xanax comes in tablet form with four different strengths:

0.25 milligrams (mg)
0.5 mg
1 mg
2 mg

Each strength is designed with a unique shape and color to help patients and healthcare providers easily identify the correct dosage. This variety of strengths allows for precise dosing tailored to individual patient needs and treatment goals.

Xanax vs. Xanax XR: Understanding the Difference

While this article focuses on immediate-release Xanax, it’s worth noting that an extended-release version called Xanax XR exists. Xanax XR is specifically used for treating panic disorder and is typically taken once daily. The key difference lies in how the medication is released into the body:

Immediate-release Xanax: The drug is released quickly into the body after the tablet dissolves.
Extended-release Xanax XR: The drug is released slowly over an extended period.

Dosage Guidelines for Xanax

Proper dosing of Xanax is crucial for its effectiveness and safety. Healthcare providers typically start with a low dosage and adjust it over time to find the optimal balance between symptom relief and minimizing side effects.

Dosage for Generalized Anxiety Disorder

For generalized anxiety disorder, the typical starting dosage is:

0.25 mg to 0.5 mg taken three times daily

The dosage may be increased gradually, usually every 3 to 4 days, based on the patient’s response. The maximum recommended dosage by the manufacturer is 4 mg daily.

Dosage for Panic Disorder

For panic disorder, the usual starting dosage is:

0.5 mg taken three times daily

If necessary, the dosage can be increased slowly, typically by 1 mg every 3 to 4 days. While the highest reported dosage is 10 mg daily, it’s uncommon and generally not recommended to reach such high doses.

Special Considerations for Xanax Dosage

Certain factors may influence the prescribed dosage of Xanax:

Age-Related Dosage Adjustments

Adults aged 65 years and older typically require lower doses of Xanax. This is due to changes in metabolism and increased sensitivity to the effects of benzodiazepines in older adults.

Liver Function and Dosage

Patients with decreased liver function may need lower doses of Xanax, as the liver plays a crucial role in metabolizing the medication.

Drug Interactions and Dosage Adjustments

Certain medications, such as ritonavir, can affect how the body processes Xanax. In these cases, dosage adjustments are necessary to prevent excessive accumulation of the drug in the system.

Side Effects and Risks Associated with Xanax Use

While Xanax can be effective in treating anxiety and panic disorders, it’s important to be aware of potential side effects and risks associated with its use.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness and sedation
Dizziness
Impaired coordination
Memory problems
Dry mouth
Nausea

Serious Risks and Considerations

Xanax carries several significant risks that require careful consideration:

Dependence and addiction potential
Risk of withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication
Increased risk of falls and accidents, especially in older adults
Potential for cognitive impairment and memory issues
Interactions with alcohol and other central nervous system depressants

Safe Use and Storage of Xanax

Given its classification as a controlled substance, proper use and storage of Xanax are crucial:

Take Xanax exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider
Never share Xanax with others, even if they have similar symptoms
Store Xanax in a secure location, out of reach of children and others
Keep track of your medication to prevent misuse or diversion

Withdrawal and Dependence: Important Considerations

Xanax can lead to physical dependence, even when taken as prescribed. This means that abruptly stopping the medication can result in withdrawal symptoms. To mitigate this risk, healthcare providers typically implement a tapering schedule when discontinuing Xanax treatment.

Tapering Schedule

A tapering schedule involves gradually reducing the dosage of Xanax over time. This approach helps minimize withdrawal symptoms and allows the body to adjust to decreasing levels of the medication. The specific tapering schedule will vary based on individual factors such as:

Duration of Xanax use
Current dosage
Individual response to dose reductions
Presence of underlying medical conditions

It’s crucial to follow the tapering schedule provided by your healthcare provider and communicate any difficulties or concerns during the process.

Long-Term Use and Limitations of Xanax

Xanax is generally not recommended for long-term use due to the potential for dependence and other adverse effects. The safety and efficacy of Xanax beyond certain durations have not been well-established:

For panic disorder: Not known to be safe beyond 10 weeks of use
For generalized anxiety disorder: Not known to be safe beyond 4 months of use

Healthcare providers often consider alternative treatments for long-term management of anxiety and panic disorders, which may include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Other classes of medications with lower risk of dependence
Lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques

Xanax Use in Special Populations

Xanax and Older Adults

Older adults (65 years and above) may be more sensitive to the effects of Xanax. This increased sensitivity can lead to a higher risk of side effects such as:

Excessive sedation
Confusion
Impaired balance and coordination
Increased risk of falls

For these reasons, healthcare providers typically start with lower doses in older adults and monitor them closely for adverse effects.

Xanax and Liver Impairment

Patients with decreased liver function may process Xanax more slowly, leading to higher blood levels of the medication. This can increase the risk of side effects and toxicity. Dosage adjustments are often necessary for patients with liver impairment to ensure safe and effective treatment.

Xanax and Pregnancy

The use of Xanax during pregnancy carries potential risks to the developing fetus. These risks may include:

Increased risk of birth defects
Withdrawal symptoms in newborns
Potential long-term neurodevelopmental effects

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss the risks and benefits of Xanax use with their healthcare provider. Alternative treatments may be recommended when possible.

Drug Interactions with Xanax

Xanax can interact with various medications and substances, potentially leading to increased side effects or reduced efficacy. Some notable interactions include:

Opioids

Combining Xanax with opioid medications can increase the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, and even death. This combination should be avoided unless specifically directed by a healthcare provider.

Alcohol

Alcohol can enhance the sedative effects of Xanax, leading to increased drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It’s generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking Xanax.

CYP3A4 Inhibitors

Medications that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme (such as certain antifungal drugs, HIV protease inhibitors, and some antibiotics) can slow the metabolism of Xanax, potentially leading to increased blood levels and side effects. Dosage adjustments may be necessary when these medications are used concurrently.

Other Central Nervous System Depressants

Combining Xanax with other medications that depress the central nervous system (such as barbiturates, sedatives, or certain antidepressants) can lead to additive sedative effects and increased risk of adverse reactions.

Monitoring and Follow-up During Xanax Treatment

Regular monitoring is essential for patients taking Xanax to ensure its safe and effective use. This typically involves:

Periodic assessment of symptoms and treatment response
Evaluation of side effects and tolerability
Monitoring for signs of dependence or misuse
Adjusting dosage as needed based on individual response
Considering alternative treatments for long-term management

Patients should maintain open communication with their healthcare provider throughout treatment, reporting any concerns or changes in their condition promptly.

Alternative Treatments for Anxiety and Panic Disorders

While Xanax can be effective for short-term management of anxiety and panic disorders, there are several alternative treatments that may be considered for long-term management or as adjuncts to medication:

Psychotherapy

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Exposure therapy
Mindfulness-based therapies

Other Medications

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Buspirone

Lifestyle Modifications

Regular exercise
Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
Improving sleep hygiene
Limiting caffeine and alcohol intake

The choice of treatment should be individualized based on factors such as the specific disorder, severity of symptoms, patient preferences, and potential risks and benefits of each approach.

Recognizing and Addressing Xanax Misuse

Given its potential for misuse and addiction, it’s crucial to be aware of signs that may indicate problematic Xanax use:

Taking higher doses than prescribed
Using Xanax more frequently than directed
Obtaining Xanax from multiple sources or without a prescription
Experiencing cravings or a preoccupation with obtaining and using Xanax
Continuing to use Xanax despite negative consequences

If you or someone you know is struggling with Xanax misuse, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare provider or addiction specialist. Treatment options may include:

Medically supervised detoxification
Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs
Cognitive-behavioral therapy for addiction
Support groups and peer support programs

The Future of Anxiety Treatment: Beyond Benzodiazepines

As research in the field of mental health continues to advance, new approaches to treating anxiety and panic disorders are emerging. Some promising areas of investigation include:

Novel Pharmacological Approaches

Medications targeting specific neurotransmitter systems involved in anxiety
Rapid-acting anxiolytics with reduced risk of dependence
Personalized medicine approaches based on genetic and biomarker profiles

Technology-Assisted Treatments

Virtual reality exposure therapy
Smartphone apps for anxiety management and cognitive training
Neurofeedback and brain stimulation techniques

Integrative Approaches

Combining pharmacological and psychological treatments for enhanced outcomes
Incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into standard treatment protocols
Exploring the role of nutrition and gut-brain interactions in anxiety disorders

As these new approaches are developed and refined, the management of anxiety and panic disorders may shift towards more personalized, holistic, and potentially less medication-dependent strategies. However, it’s important to note that current evidence-based treatments, including the judicious use of medications like Xanax when appropriate, remain valuable tools in helping individuals manage these challenging conditions.

Form, Strengths, How to Take, and More

If you have certain anxiety-related conditions, your doctor might suggest Xanax as a treatment option. It’s a prescription drug used to treat the following conditions in adults:

panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
generalized anxiety disorder that requires immediate treatment

Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow. It contains the active ingredient alprazolam. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) Xanax belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines.

This article describes the dosages of Xanax, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Xanax, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers Xanax’s usual dosages, which are provided by the drugmaker. But when using Xanax, always take the dosage your doctor prescribes.

Xanax vs. Xanax XR

Another form of Xanax is available, which is called Xanax XR. This form of the drug is used to treat panic disorder only. It’s usually taken once per day.

Xanax tablets are immediate-release, which means all of the drug is released into your body soon after the tablet dissolves.

Xanax XR tablets are extended-release (XR). This means the drug is released slowly into your body over a period of time.

This article focuses just on Xanax. To learn more about Xanax XR’s dosage, talk with your doctor or see the drug’s prescribing information.

Below is information about the usual dosages of Xanax.

Note: This chart highlights the basics of the drug’s dosage. Be sure to read on for more detail.

Xanax form	Xanax strengths	Xanax starting dosage
• tablet	• 0.25 milligrams (mg) • 0.5 mg • 1 mg • 2 mg	• 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg three times per day

Note: Xanax is a controlled substance. This means it’s regulated by the U. S. government due to the risk of misuse. (With misuse a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.) You should only take Xanax exactly as prescribed and you should not share the drug with anyone else. It’s also recommended that you store Xanax in a safe place away from children.

What are the forms of Xanax?

Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow.

What strengths does Xanax come in?

Xanax comes in the following strengths:

0.25 mg
0.5 mg
1 mg
2 mg

Different Xanax strengths come in different shapes and colors which can help you remember the strength of your tablet.

What are the usual dosages of Xanax?

Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage of Xanax and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. Instead of increasing your dose to reach an average dosage, they’ll prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.

The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for generalized anxiety disorder

You’ll likely start by taking Xanax 0.25-mg to 0.5-mg tablets three times daily. Then, if you respond well to the drug, your doctor may increase your dosage slowly. The increase is usually once every 3 to 4 days. The maximum dosage recommended by the drugmaker is 4 mg daily.

Dosage for panic disorder

You’ll likely start with Xanax 0.5-mg tablets three times per day. If you respond well to the drug and your doctor increases your daily dosage, they’ll do it slowly by 1 mg every 3 to 4 days. The highest dose reported by the drugmaker is 10 mg daily, but it’s uncommon to take that high of a dose.

Taper

When you stop taking Xanax, your doctor will likely have you decrease your dose slowly. See the “Xanax and withdrawal and dependence” section below.

What’s the dosage of Xanax for children?

There’s no recommended Xanax dosage for children, though doctors sometimes prescribe the drug off-label for them. (Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed to treat a condition or age group it hasn’t been approved for.) To learn more about the uses and risks of Xanax in children, talk with your child’s doctor.

Is Xanax used long term?

No, Xanax is not usually used as a long-term treatment. It’s not known if Xanax is safe to take for more than 10 weeks for panic disorder or more than 4 months for generalized anxiety disorder.

When stopping Xanax, you’ll likely do it slowly using a taper schedule. This will help decrease your risk of withdrawal symptoms. (These are side effects that can happen when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.) Talk with your doctor about what your dosage taper schedule will be.

Dosage adjustments

If you’re an adult ages 65 years and older, if you have decreased liver function, or if you take a drug called ritonavir, your doctor will prescribe a lower Xanax dosage. There are specific dosing guidelines for taking Xanax with ritonavir.

Your Xanax dose will also be decreased if you’re taking other medications that cause your liver to process Xanax more slowly. If you still have side effects, your doctor may decrease your dose further. There’s not a specific lowest dose that’s usually prescribed.

Some drugs affect liver function so much that they’re not safe to take with Xanax at all. Examples include Prezista (darunavir) and Noxafil (Posaconazole). If you need to take one of these drugs, your doctor will likely have you stop your Xanax treatment with a taper first.

Below are answers to some common questions about Xanax and dosage.

Is the dosage of Xanax based on body weight?

No, your dosage of Xanax is not based on your body weight. You’ll likely start on a low dose and your doctor may increase it slowly based on your reaction to the drug.

What is a Xanax bar?

A Xanax bar usually refers to a Xanax tablet that’s shaped like a rectangle. This wording is often used in the context of misuse and addiction. (Misuse means a drug is taken differently than how it was prescribed. Addiction means a drug is used even if it leads to harmful outcomes.)

For more information about the risks of misuse and addiction with Xanax, see the boxed warning at the start of this article).

Xanax and Xanax XR come in several different shapes and colors. This is helpful when your doctor prescribes more than one strength of Xanax to make up your daily dose.

Is Xanax used for insomnia? If so, what’s the dosage?

Xanax is sometimes used off-label* for insomnia. If your doctor prescribes Xanax for this condition, they’ll determine the dosage that’s right for you.

While off-label uses are often safe and effective, you may be able to find an option for insomnia that’s safer than Xanax. Benzodiazepines (the drug group Xanax belongs to) have a higher risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms than other drugs that treat insomnia. (With dependence your body gets used to a drug and needs it for you to feel comfortable. And withdrawal symptoms are side effects that can occur when you stop taking a drug your body has become dependent on.)

Is there a Xanax dosage used for dental work or before other medical procedures?

Xanax has been used off-label* to help with anxiety and sedation before medical procedures, including dental work. There is not a specific dose that’s always used for this purpose.

Another drug used for this purpose is Valium (diazepam), which (like Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. Find out more about the similarities and differences between Xanax and Valium in this article.

Talk with your doctor or dentist if you have anxiety before medical procedures.

* Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed to treat a condition or age group it hasn’t been approved for.

The dosage of Xanax you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:

the type and severity of the condition you’re using the drug to treat
your age
the form of Xanax you take
side effects you may have from Xanax
other medications you take
other conditions you may have (see “Dosage adjustments” above)

Xanax comes as a tablet you swallow with water, usually three times per day. You can take it with or without food.

For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Xanax, see this article.

Accessible drug containers and labels

If you find it hard to read the prescription label on your medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:

have large print or use braille
feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio

Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.

If you have trouble opening medication bottles, let your pharmacist know. They may be able to supply Xanax in an easy-open container. They may also have tips to help make it simpler to open the drug’s container.

If you miss your Xanax dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Don’t take two doses at once.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Xanax on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.

Do not take more Xanax than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to serious side effects. The drugmaker reports that overdoses have happened with Xanax alone and when Xanax was combined with other drugs or alcohol.

Symptoms of overdose

Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:

confusion
extreme drowsiness
lack of coordination
slow reflexes
death (in rare cases)

What to do in case you take too much Xanax

Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Xanax. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room. A drug called flumazenil is sometimes used along with other measures to treat an overdose of benzodiazepines (the drug group Xanax belongs to). Xanax

Xanax has a boxed warning for withdrawal reactions. (See the beginning of this article for more details on the boxed warnings for Xanax.) Withdrawal reactions are more likely in people who take higher doses and people who take the drug for a longer amount of time. Symptoms of these reactions include:

blurry vision
dizziness
depression
anxiety
uncontrolled movements
insomnia
seizure
hallucinations
suicidal thoughts

Long-term withdrawal symptoms that can last weeks to 12 months or more include:

ringing in the ears
muscle twitches
numbness
cognitive difficulty

Your doctor will likely prescribe a dosage taper schedule to help you avoid withdrawal reactions. Your daily dose will likely be decreased by 0.5 mg in 3-day (or longer) intervals. If you have any symptoms of withdrawal, talk with your doctor right away. They may decide to pause or slow your taper schedule.

The sections above describe the usual dosages provided by the drugmaker. If your doctor recommends Xanax for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

Remember, you should not change your dosage of Xanax without your doctor’s recommendation. Only take Xanax exactly as prescribed. Talk with your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your current dosage. Here are some examples of questions you may want to ask:

How slow should my Xanax dosage taper be?
If I take a lower dose of Xanax, will I have a lower risk of side effects?
Will my dosage of Xanax change if I start another medication?
Will I take a lower Xanax dosage if I have liver problems?

To get information on different conditions, and tips for improving your health, subscribe to any of Healthline’s newsletters. You may also want to check out the online communities at Bezzy. It’s a place where people with certain conditions can find support and connect with others.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Form, Strengths, How to Take, and More

If you have certain anxiety-related conditions, your doctor might suggest Xanax as a treatment option. It’s a prescription drug used to treat the following conditions in adults:

panic disorder with or without agoraphobia
generalized anxiety disorder that requires immediate treatment

Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow. It contains the active ingredient alprazolam. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) Xanax belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines.

This article describes the dosages of Xanax, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Xanax, see this in-depth article.

Note: This article covers Xanax’s usual dosages, which are provided by the drugmaker. But when using Xanax, always take the dosage your doctor prescribes.

Xanax vs. Xanax XR

Another form of Xanax is available, which is called Xanax XR. This form of the drug is used to treat panic disorder only. It’s usually taken once per day.

Xanax tablets are immediate-release, which means all of the drug is released into your body soon after the tablet dissolves.

Xanax XR tablets are extended-release (XR). This means the drug is released slowly into your body over a period of time.

This article focuses just on Xanax. To learn more about Xanax XR’s dosage, talk with your doctor or see the drug’s prescribing information.

Below is information about the usual dosages of Xanax.

Note: This chart highlights the basics of the drug’s dosage. Be sure to read on for more detail.

Xanax form	Xanax strengths	Xanax starting dosage
• tablet	• 0.25 milligrams (mg) • 0.5 mg • 1 mg • 2 mg	• 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg three times per day

Note: Xanax is a controlled substance. This means it’s regulated by the U.S. government due to the risk of misuse. (With misuse a drug is taken in a way other than how it’s prescribed.) You should only take Xanax exactly as prescribed and you should not share the drug with anyone else. It’s also recommended that you store Xanax in a safe place away from children.

What are the forms of Xanax?

Xanax comes as a tablet that you swallow.

What strengths does Xanax come in?

Xanax comes in the following strengths:

0. 25 mg
0.5 mg
1 mg
2 mg

Different Xanax strengths come in different shapes and colors which can help you remember the strength of your tablet.

What are the usual dosages of Xanax?

Dosage for generalized anxiety disorder

Dosage for panic disorder

Taper

When you stop taking Xanax, your doctor will likely have you decrease your dose slowly. See the “Xanax and withdrawal and dependence” section below.

What’s the dosage of Xanax for children?

Is Xanax used long term?

No, Xanax is not usually used as a long-term treatment. It’s not known if Xanax is safe to take for more than 10 weeks for panic disorder or more than 4 months for generalized anxiety disorder.

Dosage adjustments

Below are answers to some common questions about Xanax and dosage.

Is the dosage of Xanax based on body weight?

No, your dosage of Xanax is not based on your body weight. You’ll likely start on a low dose and your doctor may increase it slowly based on your reaction to the drug.

What is a Xanax bar?

For more information about the risks of misuse and addiction with Xanax, see the boxed warning at the start of this article).

Xanax and Xanax XR come in several different shapes and colors. This is helpful when your doctor prescribes more than one strength of Xanax to make up your daily dose.

Is Xanax used for insomnia? If so, what’s the dosage?

Xanax is sometimes used off-label* for insomnia. If your doctor prescribes Xanax for this condition, they’ll determine the dosage that’s right for you.

Is there a Xanax dosage used for dental work or before other medical procedures?

Xanax has been used off-label* to help with anxiety and sedation before medical procedures, including dental work. There is not a specific dose that’s always used for this purpose.

Another drug used for this purpose is Valium (diazepam), which (like Xanax) is a benzodiazepine. Find out more about the similarities and differences between Xanax and Valium in this article.

Talk with your doctor or dentist if you have anxiety before medical procedures.

* Off-label use is when a drug is prescribed to treat a condition or age group it hasn’t been approved for.

The dosage of Xanax you’re prescribed may depend on several factors. These include:

the type and severity of the condition you’re using the drug to treat
your age
the form of Xanax you take
side effects you may have from Xanax
other medications you take
other conditions you may have (see “Dosage adjustments” above)

Xanax comes as a tablet you swallow with water, usually three times per day. You can take it with or without food.

For information on the expiration, storage, and disposal of Xanax, see this article.

Accessible drug containers and labels

If you find it hard to read the prescription label on your medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies provide medication labels that:

have large print or use braille
feature a code you can scan with a smartphone to change the text to audio

Your doctor or pharmacist may be able to recommend pharmacies that offer these accessibility features if your current pharmacy doesn’t.

If you miss your Xanax dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the usual time. Don’t take two doses at once.

If you need help remembering to take your dose of Xanax on time, try using a medication reminder. This can include setting an alarm or downloading a reminder app on your phone.

Symptoms of overdose

Symptoms caused by an overdose can include:

confusion
extreme drowsiness
lack of coordination
slow reflexes
death (in rare cases)

What to do in case you take too much Xanax

Xanax has a boxed warning for withdrawal reactions. (See the beginning of this article for more details on the boxed warnings for Xanax. ) Withdrawal reactions are more likely in people who take higher doses and people who take the drug for a longer amount of time. Symptoms of these reactions include:

blurry vision
dizziness
depression
anxiety
uncontrolled movements
insomnia
seizure
hallucinations
suicidal thoughts

Long-term withdrawal symptoms that can last weeks to 12 months or more include:

ringing in the ears
muscle twitches
numbness
cognitive difficulty

The sections above describe the usual dosages provided by the drugmaker. If your doctor recommends Xanax for you, they’ll prescribe the dosage that’s right for you.

How slow should my Xanax dosage taper be?
If I take a lower dose of Xanax, will I have a lower risk of side effects?
Will my dosage of Xanax change if I start another medication?
Will I take a lower Xanax dosage if I have liver problems?

I need Xanax High Dose – Rest Addiction

Xanax is a popular drug of the benzodiazepine tranquilizer group, which has pronounced sedative and hypnotic properties. It is prescribed as a sedative with a wide spectrum of action, including: depression, nervous tension, convulsive phenomena, insomnia, neuroses of various etiologies, etc. Due to its high availability and relatively low price, it has become one of the most popular pharmacy drugs.

Even with strict adherence to the recommendations of a doctor, Xanax can provoke a number of health problems, including those associated with impaired brain activity. The drug has a significant narcotic effect that can lead to the development of dependence.

Contents

Action of Xanax

The drug has a wide pharmacological potential in the treatment of anxiety. Taking pills has a complex calming effect on the body. The mechanism of work is to activate the inhibitory effect of endogenous GABA, in the central nervous system – there is a rapid increase in the sensitivity of GABA receptors, and the excitability of the subcortical structures of the brain also decreases.

The second important aspect of Xanax’s action is its mild hypnotic effect, which allows a person to reduce anxiety levels, relax and fall asleep. If the recommended dose is exceeded, the drug has the opposite effect – a person has a feeling of euphoria, serenity, mood improves significantly, depression or other problems are forgotten. With prolonged uncontrolled use, drug addiction develops, mental disorders appear, and the general mental health of a person is also disturbed.

Signs of Xanax use

Signs of Xanax use are pronounced, especially in people suffering from problems associated with nervous system disorders. People become calm and peaceful. But with systematic use and abuse (exceeding the recommended doses), the following signs of the use of the sedative Xanax appear:

Severe headaches;
Easy fatigue, even without significant physical exertion;
Sleep and wake disorder;
Irrational thinking, confused thoughts, speech disorders;
Gagging and vomiting;
Tremor of limbs, spasms of muscles in various parts of the body;
Excessive sweating, even at normal ambient temperatures.

Doctors of MEDLUKS in Kiev note that after taking the drug, changes in appearance may be observed, the person’s face quickly swells, the throat, tongue, and other parts of the body (especially the limbs) may swell.

Why is Xanax dangerous? Often a person solving the problem of excessive anxiety, depression, etc., becomes a drug addict. Due to these negative qualities, Xanax is called a deadly sedative.

Other hazards of Xanax include:

Swelling of the throat, face, and lips, which can cause breathing problems;
Sleep disturbance, insomnia or excessive sleepiness;
Decreased mental faculties, memory impairment;
Stomach pain, diarrhea or constipation;
Increased aggression, decreased self-preservation function;
Apathy, depression.

Most of the above effects are observed at the beginning of the drug intake or during the formation of dependence. If you have the above symptoms, you should immediately consult a narcologist.

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Is Xanax Physically Dependent

Dependence on the sedative Xanax, in the vast majority of cases, develops in people who take it as a drug or do not follow the doctor’s recommendations for dosage. The drug causes mental and physical dependence:

Mental dependence – the drug perfectly copes with various anxiety conditions. Therefore, a person often abuses pills that provide him with peace of mind. The patient is afraid to give up Xanax, assuming that anxiety and related problems will return. After consultation with a psychiatrist, more than 50% of addicts can stop the pills on their own;
Physical dependence – does not develop immediately, but gradually. In parallel, there is an increase in the body’s tolerance (to achieve the desired effect, the drug addict must use more and more pills each time). Over time, the substance accumulates in the body, stimulating metabolic processes called withdrawal syndrome – they cause physical dependence, which is manifested by excruciating withdrawal.

With the development of physical dependence, it is necessary to detoxify from drugs, followed by treatment. It is best to do this with the narcologists of the MEDLUKS clinic in Kyiv.

Side effects of Xanax

Despite the high effectiveness of Xanax as a sedative, its use can cause a number of side effects that must be taken into account by the doctor when prescribing, as well as by the patient when used.

The main side effects of Xanax are:

From the side of the central nervous system – dizziness, headaches, impaired concentration, hallucinations, impaired coordination of movements, etc.;
Digestive system – diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, abnormal liver function;
Cardiovascular system – decreased blood pressure, tachycardia, leukopenia, anemia.

Some disorders of the hematopoietic, urogenital and endocrine systems are possible. The type and nature of side effects directly depends on the individual characteristics of the patient’s body. But the main side effect is the gradual formation of dependence.

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Xanax overdose – what to do and first aid

Xanax overdose leads to a number of adverse effects, including death. High doses depress the central nervous system of the body – in more than 80% of severe cases, the patient stops breathing during sleep. People with diseases of the cardiovascular system may experience severe coma.

Xanax Overdose First Aid:

Call an ambulance for narcological help – a team of doctors from the MEDLUKS clinic in Kyiv is ready to go to the patient 24/7;
Comfortable position – lay the patient on the sofa or floor in a comfortable position for him, without throwing his head back;
Do not let the patient fall asleep – talk to him, divert attention;
Access to fresh air – open the window and doors in the room.

If possible, if there are sorbents in the house (atoxil, enterosgel, activated charcoal), give them to the patient.

Xanax addiction treatment

Xanax addiction treatment is always comprehensive and focuses on the psychological and physical aspects of addiction. Given the mechanism of action of the drug, psychotherapy plays a fundamental role in successful treatment.

Stages of drug addiction treatment:

Primary examination – a specialist determines the type and complexity of addiction, develops an optimal treatment regimen;
Psychotherapy for addiction – allows a person to realize the perniciousness of the existing problem and develop a stable motivation for a complete cure;
Drug therapy – aimed at restoring the normal functioning of vital organs and body systems;
Rehabilitation of drug addicts is the longest and most important stage of treatment, allowing a person to return to a normal social life in which there are no drugs.

Are you or someone close to you addicted to Xanax? Specialists of the MEDLUKS drug treatment clinic in Kyiv will definitely help!

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