Xanax

Xanax is a brand name for the benzodiazepine Alprazolam. Other brand names for Alprazolam are Xanax XR and Niravam. Xanax is often referred to as ‘downers’.  Xanax is considered to be a Schedule IV controlled substance under the Controlled Substance Act (CSA).  Xanax is typically used to treat severe anxiety disorders, panic disorders and anxiety that may be caused by clinical depression.  It is usually prescribed by a doctor and initially for a short period of time to help ease the discomfort of anxiety.  Xanax acts by affecting the central nervous system.  If your doctor is considering prescribing Xanax for your anxiety condition, it is very important that you keep several things in mind.  First of all, Xanax can be addicting.  Addiction may develop depending on dose you take, how often you are taking it, and for what length of time.  In addition to that, you will want to let your doctor know if you have any of the following conditions before taking Xanax:

• Glaucoma
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Suicidal thoughts
• Depression
• Addiction to drugs or alcohol
• Chronic psychosis
• Allergy to benzodiazepines

There are also many side effects associated with Xanax.  The following list includes some of the effects you may want to be aware of:

• Drowsiness
• Feeling light headed
• Fainting
• Blurred vision
• Trouble concentrating
• Forgetfulness
• Slurred speech
• Muscle relaxation
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Feeling irritable
• Loss of sleep (insomnia)
• Lack of interest in sex

It is also very to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, in case the combination of the drugs may be harmful.  As with most medications, you should never drink alcohol with Xanax. 

There are many good reasons why Xanax may be a good treatment for your condition. However, always consider that Xanax can be very addictive.  If you have been taking more of the drug than was originally prescribed for you, or you find yourself taking it more often, you may have developed a tolerance to Xanax.  What that means is that you have been taking the drug long enough that it now takes more of the drug for you to achieve the same effects as when you originally began taking it.  If this is the case in your situation, it is not a good idea to quit the drug cold turkey.  You may want to be honest with your doctor and let him know that you have been taking more than prescribed.  He may want to wean you off the drug slowly.  If you stop taking the drug abruptly, there may be some uncomfortable and dangerous side effects.

If you know someone who is abusing Xanax, you may want to consider getting some help from an interventionist.  The interventionist can help organize and plan the detoxification and treatment for your loved one.