Do you or a loved one use Xanax? This is a somewhat common prescription medication that is used as a central nervous system depressant. It is often given to people with panic disorders or significant anxiety. Yet, even when used properly, this drug can become an addiction risk. That is why it is always important to work closely with your provider to ensure you are not at risk for abuse. At Serenity Light Recovery, we work with people facing all types of prescription drug addiction.
Can Xanax Addiction Really Happen?
Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is a prescription drug. Your doctor will tell you how to use it, when to use it, and how to avoid overusing this drug. Yet, even when you do this, it is possible to develop an addiction to it. Because it has such a high potential for addiction, you should work closely with your doctor to monitor your use of it.
Addiction occurs because the body can quickly build a tolerance for this drug. As a result, you may feel the need to use more of the drug to get the same results. Yet, when you do this, your body will again reach a level of tolerance, and the cycle continues. In many situations, you can develop a dependence on it, which means your brain and body crave it. This makes it very hard for a person to stop using the drug.
Do You Have the Signs of a Xanax Addiction?
Like all prescription drug addictions, you can develop an addiction to this drug even if you are following your doctor’s recommendations. That is why it is so important to notice changes in your use, or that of a loved one, that could indicate you need help. Some of the most common signs include:
Using It More Often Than Prescribed
One of the most common signs of Xanax addiction is using it outside of the rules set by your prescription. You may be using it more frequently. Other times, you may be using more of the drug than was prescribed to you.
Doctor Shopping
A person may seek out a prescription from more than one doctor as a way to get access to more of the drug. This is called doctor shopping. If your loved one requests to see various doctors, this may be an indication of an underlying problem.
Polydrug Use
Sometimes people who have a Xanax addiction will try to add other drugs to their use as a way to get improved effectiveness or a different type of high. For example, some people may mix this drug with alcohol. This can create a more euphoric effect. Mixing Xanax with other drugs, especially depressants, is very dangerous for your health.
What Should You Do if You Have a Xanax Addiction?
If you have a prescription drug addiction, your first and most important step is to reach out to a treatment program like Serenity Light Recovery. We will work with you through comprehensive care to help you break your addiction and dependence. It is important to get help even if you are unsure if you have an addiction. We offer comprehensive programs, including:
- Drug addiction detox
- Residential drug treatment
- Men’s rehab program
- Women’s rehab program
- Intensive outpatient program
- Xanax drug detox center
Find the Treatment Needed at Serenity Light Recovery
Xanax addiction can happen even when a person believes they are taking only what they need. If you see these signs in your loved one, it is important to get them the help they need. For prescription drug addiction needs of all types, put your trust in Serenity Light Recovery. We offer the comprehensive care you need in a safe, comfortable environment. Call (281) 431-6700 to learn more.
As our CEO, Heather’s main calling is to stay true to the vision of the organization, which is saving lives and striving to redefine statistics by raising the standard of care with evolving treatment methods. Heather studied psychology at LSU and both the main and Clear Lake campuses of the University of Houston, and she is a certified IASIS provider and CPI instructor. She’s been helping people in recovery since 2011. Heather’s motto to live by is “I am not what I’ve done; I am what I’ve overcome.”