Xanax Dependency
Can Benzodiazepines cause long-term brain damage?
Xanax is the most frequently prescribed benzodiazepine drug in the US, with about 49 million prescriptions written in 2011.
Ativan (27 million prescriptions). Valium (about 15 million prescriptions).
Klonopin (about 27 million prescriptions). Restoril (about 8.5 prescriptions).
First introduced in 1976, the medication comes in tablet form or an extended-release capsule. When taken as prescribed, it has potent and therapeutic anti-anxiety and sedative effects. It is most often given to patients for mental health disorders related to anxiety, including: Generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and various phobias. The short-term effects of Xanax are beneficial to many individuals. It has the potential to reduce the physical tension, restlessness, and feelings of unease common with anxiety.
Vocabulary
Alprazolam- It can treat anxiety and panic disorder. Common brands/generic name: Xanax, Niravam
Gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA)- is an amino acid in the body that acts as a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It limits nerve transmission, inhibiting nervous activity.
Side Effects
Memory problems
Unusual changes in your mood
Drowsiness
Changes in sex drive
Headaches
Weight changes
Fatigue
Seizures
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Difficulty concentrating
Bad Anxiety is probably the single most miserable emotional state humans can experience. It is truly a living hell. For people who struggle with anxiety, the fact that benzodiazepines work so quickly greatly increases the risk for developing psychological dependence.
Lasting Health Effects of Xanax
Cognitive deficits
Delirious states
Depression
Psychotic experiences
Aggressive and impulsive behavior
People taking Xanax for an extended period of time can experience long-term side effects. One common long-term effect is memory impairment. Impairment might be mild, but it can impart a lasting effect. It becomes VERY difficult to maintain the needed levels of concentration to receive and retain information from conversations that is observed. Someone who takes Xanax often, can say that they forget a lot and sometimes don't know what their doing or why they are doing it.
I NEED MORE! People who take Xanax for an extended amount of time may build up a tolerance for the drug. When tolerance occurs, your body requires a larger dose or increased frequency of use to achieve the similar effect that the substance had on you when you began the prescription.
CHECK THIS OUT!
Percent of population with any benzodiazepine use by sex and age, US 2008 GRAPH
Treatment for Xanax Addiction
Outpatient treatment programs offer more flexibility than inpatient programs. This could include individual counseling and/or group therapy or nonprofessional/community based support groups. Some people need the additional structure that an inpatient program provides. This would include living in a facility, typically 30,60, or 90 days. During your stay you focus directly on recovery. Your day may consist of group or individual therapy, recreational activities, and skills training. It's important to review all your options and choose a program that is right for your physical health, mental, and overall well-being.
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Drug/Alcohol Abuse Rehab Centers
No one deserves addiction. If you think you have a problem with Xanax and need help finding a treatment program that's right for you, call
Phone: 1-(877)-714-9801
http://www.recovery.org/browse/new-york/
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