Xanax is a brand-name medication containing alprazolam, a substance that belongs to the benzodiazepine drug class and is used to treat anxiety disorders and certain types of seizures. Alprazolam works by increasing the reuptake of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that regulates the central nervous system and produces a calming effect.[1]
While Xanax is safe and effective when used as directed, it can be habit-forming. Even people who take the medication as prescribed can develop a physical dependence on it if they take it for extended periods of time. Xanax abuse is extremely common, too. This is because the medication can produce calming, sedative-like effects.
Taking Xanax daily for more than two weeks can cause a person to become physically dependent on the drug. Once physically dependent, withdrawal symptoms will occur if the person tries to stop taking the drug. If you or someone you know is addicted to Xanax, you know just how painful and scary the withdrawal symptoms can be. Fortunately, a medically-supervised Xanax detox center in West Palm Beach can guide patients through withdrawal in a safe, comfortable manner.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline
Symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can begin 6-12 hours after taking your last dose. In most people, symptoms peak after 1-4 days and start to fade away after 5-7 days. However, some psychological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and irritability can persist for several months. Lingering withdrawal symptoms such as these are known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) and can be managed at a long-term recovery facility.
During acute withdrawal, symptoms you may experience include:[1]
- Anxiety and panic
- Confusion
- Depression
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Light sensitivity
- Muscle spasms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Nervousness
- Paranoia
- Sore muscles
- Sweating
- Seizures or convulsions
- Tremors
The exact Xanax withdrawal timeline and severity of symptoms vary from one person to the next. The longer you have been abusing the drug, the more severe and long-lasting your symptoms may be.
How a Xanax Detox Center in West Palm Beach Can Help
Trying to detox from Xanax without proper medical supervision can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Seizures, convulsions, and paranoia are symptoms that require professional medical treatment. At Mandala Healing Center, our drug detox center in West Palm Beach, Florida is fully equipped with a team of medical professionals and behavioral support specialists who can keep you or a loved one safe during the withdrawal process.
Detox typically consists of three distinct phases:
Assessment
Everyone has their own unique needs when it comes to detox and treatment, so the first step of the detox process is an in-depth physical and psychosocial assessment. You will meet with various members of the medical and clinical team to discuss your medical history, substance abuse, mental health, and family history. You may also undergo various evaluations or be asked to complete intake questionnaires.
The information gathered during this process is used by a multidisciplinary team of addiction specialists who work collaboratively to create a custom-tailored treatment plan based on your needs.
Stabilization
The next phase of detox is known as medical stabilization. During this time, nurses will monitor your vitals and administer prescribed medications to alleviate symptoms of withdrawal.
Because Xanax can produce life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, detox management typically involves a taper. Tapering is a method where your daily dose of Xanax is slowly reduced to allow your body to adjust to lower and lower doses.[2] Eventually, you are weaned off of benzodiazepines completely.
Planning
Once your withdrawal symptoms are under control, it’s time to plan for further treatment. Detox helps you stop using substances, but it doesn’t teach you how to stay sober long term. That’s why the last phase of detox involves working with a substance abuse counselor to determine which rehab program is right for you.
After choosing a recovery program, a team member will verify your insurance, learn more about your treatment needs, and help you arrange a smooth transition from detox to rehab.
Begin Your Recovery at Our World-Class Xanax Detox Center in West Palm Beach, FL Today
Detox is the first step in overcoming addiction, but the process isn’t easy and it can even put your life at risk if you try to detox alone. Instead of taking the risk, we urge you to accept the help of our team at Mandala Healing Center.
At our drug and alcohol detox facility in West Palm Beach, your safety, comfort, and sobriety are a top priority. Our caring and attentive team is ready to help each patient find solutions for lasting sobriety and truly heal from within. We are acutely aware that every individual has a unique set of needs. Accordingly, our alcohol and drug detox programs are personalized for each individual, utilizing evidence-based practices and holistic approaches.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Xanax addiction, now is the best time to get help. Call now to speak with an admissions coordinator about starting your recovery journey.
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