Xanax (alprazolam) is typically prescribed to help those struggling with symptoms of anxiety disorders. It produces a calming effect on the brain, but this immediate effect can be enticing for some users, leading to abuse. If abuse is present, then you may experience withdrawal symptoms that can be potentially fatal. 
Can You Die from Xanax Withdrawal?
In severe cases, it’s possible to die from Xanax withdrawal. Withdrawal can take a toll on your body and cause different symptoms that can be difficult to deal with without the proper support. Since Xanax affects the brain and nervous system, those who abruptly stop using the drug are at risk of experiencing life-threatening complications.
One of the most common life-threatening complications that can result in death is seizures. Learning what happens during withdrawal and how you can manage this difficult time can help you safely quit the drug.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Xanax?
Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine, which is a class of drugs that depress the nervous system. When you take it, your brain activity will start to calm down. However, long-term abuse of this drug will result in dependence. This is a serious issue since you’ll need professional help to break this cycle.
Those dependent on Xanax will start experiencing withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the drug. For instance, your brain and nervous system might start being more overactive once you stop taking Xanax. There may even be times wherein you’ll find it difficult to stay still without the drug.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
Xanax withdrawal symptoms will look different on everyone. Some withdrawal symptoms that usually occur when you’re going through this time include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia and nightmares
- Muscle pain
- Tremors
- Shaking
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Heart palpitations
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating and chills
- Depression
Severe withdrawal syndromes may include seizures, hallucinations, delirium, and suicidal thoughts.
How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?
The timeline for Xanax withdrawal will vary from person to person. Here’s what you can expect after your last use of the drug:
- 6 to 12 Hours: This is when the initial symptoms begin. You may start experiencing anxiety or insomnia as your body adjusts to the drug’s absence from your system.
- 1 to 4 Days: Symptoms will start to become more intense. This is when you’ll have the highest risk of seizures, especially if you’re quitting the substance cold turkey.
- 5 to 14 Days: During this time, your symptoms will calm down. However, you may still experience some headaches, muscle stiffness, and mood disturbances.
- 14 Days and Beyond: After 14 days of quitting the drug, your symptoms will not bother you as much anymore. There might be times when you experience occasional waves of anxiety or panic, which is why it’s important to learn some long-term management techniques.
The severity and timeline of these withdrawal symptoms will also depend on various factors. For example, those who have been abusing Xanax in larger doses and for a longer period will experience more severe withdrawal symptoms. Taking Xanax with other substances will also require a more intensive and prolonged treatment plan.
Can You Quit Xanax Cold Turkey?
It’s not recommended to quit Xanax cold turkey. Stopping Xanax use without a doctor’s advice can lead to seizures. This is a life-threatening withdrawal symptom that can happen very quickly after you last take the drug.
Since withdrawal symptoms for Xanax can start quickly, the absence of medical support can lead to serious complications, such as death. In some cases, your doctor will advise you to taper your Xanax use, which is when you gradually reduce your dosage over time. This way, your brain and nervous system will be able to adjust to the absence of the substance in your body.
How to Detox from Xanax Safely
There are many ways to detox from Xanax safely, but we’ll always recommend that you seek a medical detox programme first. During medically-assisted detox, healthcare professionals will be around to supervise the withdrawal process and make sure that you are safe and comfortable.
Since these withdrawal symptoms can get pretty dangerous, the presence of healthcare professionals can also ease your mind about the process. If complications arise, they will know what to do and have the necessary tools to intervene quickly and effectively.
Another reason why a medical detox is highly recommended for benzodiazepine withdrawal is that you must also be emotionally supported at this time. Withdrawal doesn’t just affect you physically. It’s also an emotionally harrowing period when the support of loved ones may not be enough.
Professionals can conduct therapy sessions and help you navigate the feelings and emotions you experience during detox. They can provide coping strategies and guidance to help you manage the psychological challenges during this vulnerable time.
What Happens During a Xanax Detox?
There are different steps involved during a Xanax detox. As with any treatment, the first step of detox is to conduct a medical assessment and planning. This is when your healthcare provider will assess your current Xanax use and medical history.
The healthcare provider will then create a personalised detox programme based on the information gathered during your assessment. It may also include a tapering schedule to help you slowly reduce your Xanax intake.
The first few days of the detox programme are usually the toughest times. As Xanax leaves your system, the withdrawal symptoms will begin, and you’ll start feeling uneasy.
One way that doctors and medical professionals manage this crucial phase is to administer a long-acting benzodiazepine. This can help with gradually tapering the dosage and minimising the severity of withdrawal symptoms, preventing potentially dangerous complications.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a prescription benzodiazepine that helps with anxiety disorders. It’s a drug that slows down nervous system activity to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation – those who take this drug experience a calming effect that helps them worry less.
While Xanax is safe when taken as prescribed, it also carries a risk of abuse. This drug acts quickly and intensely, so some people may start taking the drug illicitly.
When to Get Help for Xanax Addiction
It’s time to get help for a Xanax addiction if you or a loved one feel like they can’t function without Xanax. Many signs point to someone needing help, such as:
- Needing higher doses of Xanax to achieve the same effects.
- Going “doctor shopping” just to get a Xanax prescription.
- Trying to stop Xanax abuse but constantly failing to do so.
- Relying on Xanax to cope with everyday responsibilities and emotions.
- Using Xanax too much to the point that it affects your work, finances, and relationships.
Get Help for Xanax Addiction Today
Dealing with any addiction is very tough, and it’s a journey that requires proper support. At Sierra Recovery, we ensure you don’t go through this journey alone.
We provide personalised addiction treatment for those struggling with substance abuse. Our treatment centre welcomes you with open arms so you can heal and find long-term recovery.
Contact us today to learn how we can help you live a healthier, substance-free life.
