How to Safely Detox from Xanax

Who knew that taking Xanax (alprazolam) every day—often to help manage nerves during a particularly stressful chapter in life—could have led to addiction?  But the reality is that Xanax belongs to the benzodiazepine family, meaning it is a highly addictive substance.  Benzodiazepine dependence was the reason for over 17,000 drug treatment program admissions in 2012, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

This brings us to the topic, how to safely detox from Xanax.  The truth is that benzodiazepine sedatives, like Xanax, pose significant health risks during the detox and withdrawal phase of recovery.  Due to the potentially unpredictable and serious withdrawal symptoms, it is always recommended that detox from Xanax take place in a medically supervised setting.

About Xanax Addiction

Xanax has become a popular drug for those suffering from some form of anxiety disorder.  Its effects are quick, providing fast relief as well as sedative effects.  Xanax is highly addictive because the person becomes psychologically dependent on the drug’s effects.  They begin to anticipate their next dosing, becoming obsessed and dependent on the drug to get them through the day.

With daily use, as with all drugs, tolerance to Xanax will build.  This results in the individual taking a higher dose or more frequent dosing in order to obtain the same effects.  Eventually, drug addiction or dependence takes root in approximately 44% of those using Xanax, according to a study published in the Journal of Addictive Behaviors in 2011.  Increased dosing, especially if taken with alcohol or another drug, can result in overdose.

Xanax addiction will begin to show up in certain signs and symptoms.  These might include:

• Poor memory
• Feeling confused
• Difficulty concentrating
• Slurring words or difficulty speaking
• Physical weakness
• Poor coordination
• Difficulty making decisions
• Depression symptoms

How to Safely Detox From Xanax in Medical Detox

When the time comes to get treatment for a Xanax addiction it is imperative that the individual does not quit cold turkey and does not attempt to detox without medical supervision.  How to safely detox from Xanax requires a medically monitored setting where withdrawal symptoms can be managed safely and effectively.  During the week-long detox process, the individual will be put on a tapering program while receiving medications as needed to help ease the withdrawal symptoms.

Symptoms of withdrawal during Xanax detox may include:

• Abdominal cramping
• Nausea and vomiting
• Fever
• Muscle cramps
• Hallucinations
• Increased anxiety
• Elevated heart rate
• Elevated respiratory rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Shaking hands
• Sweating
• Jerky movements
• Insomnia
• Grand mal seizures

The severity of the withdrawal symptoms will depend on the acuity of the addiction, if there are other drugs of abuse, co-occurring mental health disorders, and the state of general health.  Medical interventions throughout the detox process will guide the individual safely to the completion of detox and into active treatment.

Treatment For Xanax Dependence

Prior to detox the individual will have been evaluated for the severity of their Xanax addiction and any coexisting disorders.  This information will help determine the level of treatment needed for overcoming the addictive behaviors that have developed.  Depending on the individual’s treatment needs, they may get help at an inpatient treatment facility or at an outpatient rehab.

Inpatient programs have a more comprehensive menu of therapeutic activities, as well as 24-hour support and oversight.  However, both inpatient and outpatient treatment for Xanax addiction will involve core treatment elements such as psychotherapy, both individual and group settings, medication management for a dual diagnosis, recovery meetings, addiction education, and relapse prevention planning.

Solutions 4 Recovery Offers Xanax Detox and Treatment

Solutions 4 Recovery is a premier drug and alcohol treatment and dual diagnosis program located in South Orange County, California.  In addition to a customized treatment plan for each individual, expert clinical therapists, and a beautiful setting, Solutions 4 Recovery also provides sober living and outpatient options.  For more information on how to safely detox from Xanax, please contact Solutions 4 Recovery at (888) 417-1874.