Alprazolam, also known as the brand name Xanax, is a prescription drug used to treat anxiety disorders such as panic disorder. When Xanax drug abuse occurs and too much is in your system, an overdose can take place.

When a person takes more of the amount of the drug prescribed by their doctor, or if a person combines Xanax with alcohol, it can lead to a possible life-threatening overdose. Treatment of a Xanax overdose may include using intravenous fluids and the use of a breathing tube.

Symptoms Of A Xanax Overdose

When experiencing a Xanax overdose, symptoms may include:

• difficulty breathing
• drowsiness
• confusion
• hallucinations
• respiratory depression
• seizures
• problems with coordination
• loss of consciousness

Overdose deaths may occur with those who misuse benzodiazepines, also referred to as benzos. Other examples of benzodiazepines include Klonopin, Valium, and Ativan. Many benzodiazepine overdoses cause similar symptoms as those who overdose on Xanax.

How Xanax Works

Xanax is a prescription medication used by doctors to help treat anxiety disorders. Benzodiazepine drugs work by targeting the central nervous system (CNS).

By slowing down the central nervous system, Xanax raises the levels of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), when benzodiazepines are combined with other drugs, the risk factor of harmful side effects, including overdose, can greatly increase.

Xanax Side Effects

The following includes possible side effects of Xanax usage:

• dizziness
• sleepiness
• fatigue
• headache
• low blood pressure
• ​memory impairment
• slurred speech
• depression

Dangers Of Xanax Abuse

In addition to the risk of overdose, abusing Xanax can lead to other serious dangers. For instance, those abusing benzodiazepine medications may feel euphoric to the point that they exhibit a decrease in inhibitions.

When this takes place, a variety of problems can occur such as:

• having unprotected sex
• adding more drugs to your system
• vehicular accidents
• falls or drownings

Xanax Withdrawal

Another danger of those with a Xanax addiction include the serious withdrawal symptoms that can take place. In fact, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), xanax withdrawal symptoms may include:

• seizures
• insomnia
• depression
• muscle twitching
• muscle cramps
• blurred vision
• weight loss
• diarrhea

Xanax Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug use, consider joining an addiction treatment program that offers detox services, inpatient/outpatient care, behavioral therapy, and aftercare.

At Northeast Addictions Treatment Center, we offer substance use disorder treatment options on an outpatient basis. To learn more, please contact our hotline and speak with one of our medical professionals today.