Xanax Abuse & Addiction in Ohio
In the state of Ohio – particularly in cities like Cleveland, Columbus and Cincinnati – there are many substances that are causing problems. Citizens in Ohio are addicted to illicit drugs like meth, heroin and cocaine. However, just because a substance is legal does not make it any less dangerous. There are many prescription medications that are creating problems for many people.
Everyone knows about prescription opioids and how addictive they can be, but benzodiazepines are also an addictive class of drugs, and Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines.
Understanding Xanax Abuse
Xanax is the brand name for the generic drug, alprazolam. This belongs to the class of drugs that are called benzodiazepines. These drugs are typically prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders, and they help the person who takes them to feel more relaxed by slowing the activity in their brain and central nervous system. There are many situations in which they have medical uses, but even when taking them as prescribed by a physician, they still have risks.
Classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Agency in the United States, it is often prescribed for any anxiety disorder or panic disorder. Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed across the country, but they have a high potential for abuse.
When Xanax is taken, the person taking it is generally calmed down. It can also create a feeling of tranquility and relieve stress. It can reduce irritability and tension, but it can also create feelings of euphoria if taken at a high dose.
Xanax is a central nervous system depressant, which means that it increases GABA activity, which slows brain activity. It typically takes about one to two hours to reach a peak level of effectiveness. However, those who are abusing the drug will often crush it and snort it. Unfortunately, this can increase the risk for overdose and other negative consequences.
Understanding Xanax Addiction
In order to understand Xanax addiction, we must understand what makes the drug so addictive. Compared to other benzos, Xanax is fast-acting. The faster acting a substance is, the more potential it has for abuse and addiction. The fact that it’s classified as a Schedule IV substance should tell you that it is addictive.
When Xanax is taken, the brain releases dopamine, which is a brain neurotransmitter that is responsible for rewards and pleasure. This means that taking Xanax will cause feelings of pleasure. This means that you may seek out the substance to keep having those feelings of pleasure.
It should also be noted that in addition to being psychologically addictive, Xanax is extremely physically addictive. This means that those who are taking the drug will become physically dependent on the substance and will experience withdrawal symptoms in the event that they stop taking the drug. While withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and unpleasant, with Xanax, they can also be life threatening. This is why a medically-supervised detox program is essential for those who are trying to stop taking Xanax.
How Long Does it Take to Become Addicted to Xanax?
Many people in America are suffering with anxiety disorders, and a number of these people could benefit from taking Xanax in the short-term. They may be hesitant to start the medication though because they may be concerned about Xanax addiction.
The amount of time it takes to become addicted to Xanax really depends on your situation, whether or not you have a history with addiction, how long you plan to take it, etc. If you take the drug for six weeks of more, you are significantly more likely to develop an addiction.
The changes of developing a Xanax addiction are less if the dose is lower. However, there is still potential for abuse. If you are considering Xanax but are afraid of Xanax addiction, the best thing to do is to speak to your doctor. If you need treatment for a Xanax addiction, fortunately, there are facilities like The Recovery Village Columbus that can help you.
Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village Columbus aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.