What is Xanax withdrawal?
Xanax is one of the many kinds of benzodiazepines that are a class of drugs that increases the presence of inhibitory neuron gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) and in turn results in the reduction of over activity in the central nervous system and the brain. It is used to treat anxiety attacks, tension, panic attacks, releases stress, relaxes muscles and helps people to sleep. It works by slowing down the brain activity and allowing the chemicals to restore their natural balance. Due to its calming effect, many people often end up getting addicted to it. The Xanax withdrawal process is very difficult as the body finds it difficult to adjust to the sudden absence.
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Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Tremors
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Diarrhea
- Muscle pain
- Sweating
- Fever
- Impaired respiration
- Numbness of fingers
- Sensitivity to light and sound
- Tingling in arms and legs
- Alteration in sense of smell
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Aggression
- Cramps
Assessment
- The medical background needs to be assessed thoroughly to decide on the most effective treatment.
- Information regarding the usage like dosage and frequency of use are crucial for assessment.
- Knowledge of the kind of toxin affecting the patient can be gained by conducting various medical tests.
- Speaking to a psychiatrist can also help to unveil reasons like stress or depression that may have caused the addiction.
Treatment
- Tapering is the best process for withdrawal from Xanax instead of adopting cold turkey.
- Doctors also advise alternative medications to allow the body to cope with the change.
- Exercise and other physical activities should be practiced to get rid of the toxins present in the body.
- Divert attention to the day to day activities of life to avoid thinking about the addiction.
- Emotional support from loved ones is important to motivate the patient to get rid of the addiction.
How long does it take for xanax to detox?
Elimination half-life of Xanax is 12 days and its complete elimination from the system can take up to 3 days. After the detox is complete, the drug stops reacting with the plasma of the blood, the withdrawal symptoms begin to set in. The entire withdrawal process takes about 1-3 months. The symptoms are at their peak for the 1st 2 weeks.