Xanax Addiction Long-term Effects
Xanax is normally not recommended for long-term use because of the increased likelihood that a patient will develop a high tolerance for and addiction to the drug.
When Xanax is first introduced into the body a much lower dose is needed to treat panic or anxiety disorders. However, once the body becomes accustomed to the chemicals in the medication, it adapts and learns how to rearrange its chemical structures to achieve “normality.” Consequently, this causes the patient to continuously need higher doses of Xanax to effectively treat their disorder. But, taking Xanax for long periods of time does not just develop tolerance; it also develops addiction as well.
Evidence suggests that more than one third of adults who have been taking Xanax for a long period of time develop depression. Other consequences for long-term addiction to Xanax include the higher probability for an overdose and experiencing withdrawal symptoms.
Xanax Overdose
When patients abuse Xanax for long periods of time, their tolerance for the drug can become exceptionally high. This causes the patient to take much higher doses of Xanax than recommended and likely leads to an overdose. Signs of an overdose on Xanax include:
- Mental confusion
- Hypotension
- Difficulty staying awake
- Impaired motor functions
- Muscle weakness
- Impaired balance
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Respiratory depression
- Coma
- Death
Xanax Withdrawal
Long-term abuse of Xanax can lead to seizures and or severe withdrawal symptoms when patients try to end their addiction. Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Trouble concentrating
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Muscle twitching
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Increased sensations
Help With Xanax Addiction Long-Term Effects
Battling a long-term addiction to Xanax can be extremely painful. Most people cannot successfully do this alone. We offer 24-hour service to answer any questions you may have about Xanax addiction long-term effects and treatment. Please don’t hesitate to call our toll free number at (877) 259-5629.
