The symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can be long lasting and extremely uncomfortable for those who are going through them. This medication can be addictive physically, leading to physical withdrawal when it is stopped. Understanding what the medication is, the symptoms associated with withdrawal from it, and how long they could potentially last can help someone to make a decision to properly and safely withdraw from the medication to prevent complications and potentially dangerous side effects from occurring.
What is Xanax?
Alprazolam, generally distributed under the brand name Xanax, is a prescription drug that is in the benzodiazepine drug family. It is used in the treatment of several mental health and physical disorders, however Xanax is mainly used in treatment of panic and anxiety disorders. It works by slowing brain activity, producing a calming effect in people who have anxiety and panic disorders where regulating and self soothing the thoughts and anxiousness is difficult.
Xanax can lead to a physical dependence and when the drug is stopped, unpleasant and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms can present. The symptoms of Xanax withdrawal should be medically monitored to prevent complications, as well as alleviate some of the discomfort so that the process can be as smooth and simple as possible.
Symptoms of Xanax Withdrawal
There is a wide range of associated symptoms of Xanax withdrawal during detox. Different people will experience different symptoms, and the strength of these symptoms will vary from person to person. Everyone’s body is different and processes things differently, at different paces. This makes withdrawal from this drug different for everyone.
Even though everyone could potentially experience different things, there are some commonly seen symptoms of Xanax withdrawal that could be expected. These can include:
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Restlessness
- Loss of appetite
- Rebound anxiety
- Stomach pains
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Headaches
- Hallucinations
- Tremors
- Nausea
- Muscle spasms
- Depression
- Sweating
- Heart palpitations
- Seizures
Due to these symptoms of Xanax withdrawal, it is highly recommended to be medically supervised as you go through it. Things like cardiac issues and seizures can cause severe damage if you aren’t monitored and able to receive proper medical care if it is needed.
How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?
There are many different factors that go into how long the symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can last. How long someone has been using the medication, the amount they are using, and even the person’s age and overall health can play a part in how long the symptoms will be experienced. Everyone is different, and there may be underlying health conditions that one person has that could potentially make the symptoms last longer.
At any stage during withdrawal, there could be some potentially dangerous Xanax withdrawal symptoms that can lead to some severe impacts to your physical and emotional well-being. This is why having the proper care when trying to come off of this medication is extremely beneficial and highly recommended.
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline
Despite this, there is a general timeline on how long Xanax withdrawal symptoms can last, and what symptoms may be experienced during each stage.
Early Withdrawal
This stage usually begins about six to twelve hours after the last use of the medication. Xanax withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, fatigue, mood swings, and rebound insomnia can begin. These symptoms can be hard to endure, and the risk of relapse is high during the first two days.
Acute Withdrawal
During this stage you could expect to begin feeling the initial symptoms begin to peak and potentially begin feeling other symptoms in conjunction. Xanax withdrawal symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, muscle spasms, tremors, and hypersensitivity to the senses can begin. These symptoms usually go on from day two to about day six from the last use of the medication.
Late Withdrawal
By Day Six, the worst of it is generally over, and there is a sense of relief from the worst of the symptoms associated with Xanax withdrawal. The symptoms may be alleviating physically, but during this stage, usually six to 14 days from last use, the mental and physical cravings, mood swings, depression, and anxiety can be heightened. The late withdrawal stage is when the body is learning how to live without Xanax again. It is reverting back to its normal state, and it can take some adjustment. Having positive support during this time is crucial to preventing relapse and maintaining recovery from Xanax addiction.
Get Help for Xanax Withdrawal in South Florida
Xanax withdrawal can be dangerous when trying to go through it alone, and without medical help. There can be some severe, life altering complications and the whole process can be uncomfortable to go through alone. When deciding to stop using this medication, it is best to do so under the care of a medical professional.
At Ambrosia Treatment Center our professionals can help you through the uncomfortable and unpleasant symptoms that may arise. We can also help if any dangerous effects begin to show. Contact us today.
