Xanax, or alprazolam, is a very powerful sedative and hypnotic benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders and can even be used as a muscle relaxant during medical procedures. It was created to take the place of barbiturates because it was believed at the time that benzos would be less addictive. However, this is far from the truth. It is extremely addictive when used long term. Xanax is the most commonly prescribed Benzodiazepine in the United States. According to NIH:
Benzodiazepines are implicated in approximately one-third of intentional overdoses or suicide attempts.
The dangers of Xanax abuse are endless and the addiction is not easy to overcome once you’re hooked. However, with the appropriate treatment and around the clock care, men and women suffering from benzodiazepine dependency can expect a full recovery.
What Happens if You Start Snorting Xanax
Snorting Xanax is one of the ways used to ingest Xanax and is extremely dangerous due to its effects on the body. Many users believe that crushing and snorting Xanax will make the drug react quicker and more intense, however, this is not the case. There is no evidence to show that snorting Xanax would help the drug reach the brain any faster unless the pill was an extended-release tablet. This means you are exposing yourself to many more side effects for no reason at all including:
- Nasal cavity damage
- An increased risk of infections
- Irritation and inflammation in the nasal cavity
- Blocked nasal airways
- Loss of sense of smell
The Effects of Xanax on the Body
Xanax begins to work quickly on the body and effects are usually felt within 30-45 minutes and the effects can last for around six hours. Higher doses may constitute longer effects. When Xanax is ingested and abused, in any way, there are many different side effects and are essentially the same as taking the drug orally. Side effects of Xanax use include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Sedation
- Irritability
- Dizziness
- Blurred or double vision
- Memory problems and amnesia
- Headaches
- Lack of focus
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Lack of coordination
- Slurred speech
- Confusion
- Tremors
Dependence on Xanax can happen within just a couple of weeks. When a person becomes physically dependent on the drug, they will increasingly need higher doses of the drug to achieve the same effect they desire. If the drug is stopped suddenly, withdrawal symptoms will occur, which are extremely uncomfortable and can even be dangerous to someone’s well being. They typically last from 1-5 days. Some common symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include:
- Anxiety
- Headaches
- Decreased concentration
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Muscle cramps and pain
- Tremors
- Heart palpitations
- Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Low appetite
- Weight loss
- Seizures
We are Here to Help
If you or someone you love are ready to take the necessary steps to get sober, the best way to start is with a medically assisted detox process. Once you have detoxed, the best and safest option to get off of and stay off Benzodiazepines is by the use of one of the many treatment programs we offer at Recreate Life Counseling We offer many different treatment programs that provide therapeutic education and guidance for each individual to help them safely reintegrate into society. With the help of our team of therapists, we offer one on one, group therapy, as well as many other specialized options to fit each person’s needs. Benzodiazepine treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. We want to make sure you have the tools you need to avoid relapse in the real world.
Addiction isn’t an easy thing to face. Luckily you do not have to face it on your own. Our admissions counselors and professionals are available around the clock. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome the disease of addiction. Now is the time to change your life. Let us help you do it.