Xanax is commonly used in the US by doctors to treat psychological disorders such as anxiety, insomnia, and panic attacks. Addiction begins when someone uses Xanax as a recreational drug or consumes higher doses than their doctor’s directions. If you or someone you care about struggles with Xanax addiction, help is available at Atlanta Detox Center.
Our drug and alcohol detox center is a safe space to overcome the challenging initial stages of recovery from Xanax addiction. Our team has years of experience helping people regain control of their lives from addiction. We will guide you through the Xanax withdrawal symptoms so that you can then enter one of our many addiction treatment programs. Learn more about Xanax addiction treatment at Atlanta Detox Center today by calling 470.450.2355 or filling out our online contact form.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, which is a benzodiazepine. This cluster of medications works by slowing down your central nervous system (CNS) and other brain processes.
If you develop a dependency on Xanax, it is unsafe to attempt to stop using it abruptly. Without the supervision of a medical professional, potential consequences include constipation and Xanax withdrawal seizures. It would be best if you tapered Xanax doses slowly. Remember that you may still experience withdrawal symptoms even when the doctor controls the tapering process at a drug detox center.
The most common Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Headaches characterized by sensitivity to light and sound
- Heart palpitations and hyperventilation
- Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting
- Tingling in the legs and arms
- Tremors, sweating, and seizures
- Paranoia, panic attacks, and hallucinations
- Major depressive disorder
How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?
The Xanax withdrawal timeline usually starts several hours after the last dose, and it can last anywhere from one week to a month. However, if you mix Xanax with other drugs or alcohol, the withdrawal can last longer, even for a few years.
Here is what you should expect during the Xanax withdrawal process:
Stage One: The Beginning (6-12 hours)
You will begin to experience withdrawal after six to twelve hours from your last use. The most common symptoms at this stage in a residential addiction treatment program include headaches, insomnia, and anxiety.
Stage Two: The Rebound (24-72 hours)
The withdrawal symptoms are at their worst during this stage. Additionally, you are more likely to have a seizure during stage two than in any other phase.
If you were using Xanax as a treatment for anxiety, you could experience a rebound. As such, you may be at risk of developing life-threatening symptoms, and you will need medical detoxification. Ordinarily, these withdrawal symptoms will start to diminish on the fourth day.
Stage Three: The Downward Slope (1-2 weeks)
Although the severity of the symptoms will have reduced, withdrawal is still uncomfortable at this stage, even with the help of substance abuse treatment programs. Anxiety and irritability are still prevalent. However, muscle aches and headaches should subside.
Nevertheless, gastrointestinal distress can intensify during this stage and last for weeks or months. The risk of seizure is much lower at this phase of the Xanax withdrawal timeline.
Stage Four: The Return (2 or more weeks)
You might still experience some of the emotional withdrawal symptoms at this time. Most people report psychological symptoms and gastrointestinal distress lasting for weeks or months. An addiction treatment professional and our detox center staff can help adjust your treatment plan to ensure withdrawal symptoms remain at a minimum.
Here, the pain of severe withdrawal will have passed, and the risk of seizures is low. However, you can still experience anxiety, insomnia, and headaches while thinking about the need to use Xanax. After the first month, the symptoms will fade.
Overcome Xanax Addiction at a Rehab Facility
Although some people think that they can stop using a drug like Xanax on their own, this is erroneous. It pays to involve medical professionals in the process. Experts offer drug detox and therapy programs to enable you to develop skills for maintaining sobriety.
At Atlanta Detox Center, you can receive several valuable services, including:
- Group therapy program
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy program (CBT)
- Alumni program
- Individual therapy program
Begin Your Recovery from Xanax Addiction at Atlanta Detox Center
A Xanax withdrawal timeline doesn’t necessarily follow a strict schedule, and it can seem overwhelming or challenging to undertake. Nonetheless, professional help is essential in attaining recovery and other life goals. If you or a loved one may benefit from a drug detox center, we can help. Contact Atlanta Detox Center today by calling 470.450.2355 or completing our online form for more details on Xanax addiction and treatment. Take the first step in recovery by contacting Atlanta Detox Center today.
