Xanax is the name brand of alprazolam, a benzodiazepine drug manufactured legitimately by Pfizer. A healthcare provider may prescribe Xanax to treat panic disorders, panic attacks, and anxiety.

Authentic Xanax (alprazolam) pills have a very bitter taste.

Some people who’ve used Xanax claim that if you bite into it, it tastes sweet then instantly turns bitter. Others have said that it has “a horrible, recognizable taste,” “a strong chemical taste,” and that “it tastes like something that should poison you.”

Knowing what Xanax pills taste like can help you determine if the pills you have are real. Many risks are associated with using fake Xanax and with Xanax abuse.

Can You Tell If Xanax Is Fake By Its Taste?

Sometimes you can tell if Xanax is fake by its taste, but not always. Some illicit manufacturers use a bittering agent to mimic the flavor of real Xanax. But if there’s no bitterness, it’s likely fake. It may taste chalky or have no flavor at all.

Other ways to tell if a Xanax bar or tablet is fake are its snap and press lines.

An authentic Xanax (alprazolam) tablet should snap cleanly when you try to break it, rather than crumble. A counterfeit pill might have uneven lines from the pill press used to compress the powder, as it’s not professionally done.

Risks Of Taking Fake Xanax

A fake Xanax tablet may contain a different benzodiazepine and fillers such as laundry soap or lidocaine (a numbing anesthetic). These substances aren’t meant to be ingested. They can cause health issues or unexpected drug side effects.

Fake pills might also be laced with another drug, like fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. Fentanyl-laced Xanax has caused accidental overdose deaths across the United States in the last few years.

Dangers Of Xanax Abuse

If you don’t get Xanax through a legitimate pharmacy, you don’t know what you’re getting.

You also don’t know how Xanax will affect you if you aren’t following the guidance of a healthcare professional. Taking alprazolam without a prescription or taking more than prescribed is dangerous.

Overdose

It’s possible to overdose on Xanax, especially if you combine it with other benzodiazepines, opioids, or alcohol. An overdose looks like severe respiratory depression (difficulty breathing) and may lead to a coma or death.

Substance Use Disorder

Like all benzodiazepines, Xanax is a controlled substance because it can cause addiction and physical dependence. If you become dependent on Xanax, you’ll have trouble quitting without withdrawal symptoms, which can be deadly.

If you’re addicted, Xanax can take over your life. Addiction often leads to ruined relationships, job loss, poverty, and health problems. If you’re struggling with Xanax abuse, don’t wait until you’ve lost everything. Ask for help now.

Treatment For Xanax Addiction

Treatment for Xanax (alprazolam) addiction should be comprehensive. Xanax abuse takes a toll on both your physical and mental health. Treatment should include behavioral therapy, exercise, nutrition, and relational support.

At Northeast Addictions Treatment Center, we offer programs that are tailored to your needs. Our goal is to give you the tools for lifelong recovery. Speak with one of our treatment specialists today to learn more.