Clinicians also prescribe it off-label to treatdepression.
Experts do not recommend using Xanax for an extended time.
Like other benzodiazepines, Xanax can be habit-forming.
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You may become dependent on this medication, even if you take it exactly as prescribed.
Never stop taking Xanax on your own; it has themost severe withdrawal effectsof all benzodiazepines.
Instead, speak with your clinician about tapering off Xanax gradually to avoid serious withdrawal effects.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening and must be supervised by a trained medical professional.
The problem typically arises when a patient develops atoleranceto the drug over time.
Xanax has a high “misuse liability,” meaning individuals often develop aphysical dependenceon it.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Liver Function
Xanax is metabolized by the liver.
Those withsubstance use disordersmay be at higher risk of developing an addiction to Xanax.
People who are withdrawing from opiates sometimes self-medicate with Xanax.
Misusing Xanax or mixing it with other substances has life-threatening consequences, includingoverdose.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Xanax can harm a developing fetus if taken duringpregnancy.
Potential effects include:
High doses of Xanax taken in the third trimester are associated with fetal benzodiazepine syndrome.
This includes floppy baby syndrome, withdrawal symptoms, and problems regulating temperature.
Breastfeeding isn’t recommended while taking Xanax or other benzodiazepines.An infant can be exposed to Xanax through breast milk.
The potential side effects in a baby include sedation, poor temperature regulation, and lethargy.
This can result in excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and in some cases, overdose.
The person’s healthcare provider should be notified that they are in the emergency room.
Patients who experienced anxiety prior to starting Xanax may feel more anxious after stopping it.
This is known as “rebound anxiety.”
This process can help minimize the severity of withdrawal effects.
Generally, you could expect to decrease your Xanax dosage by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.
Signs of an overdose vary with the person.
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs ofoverdose from Xanax, call 911 immediately.
Anyone experiencing an overdose requires immediate medical attention.
Talk to your doctor about a tapering schedule that will help you stop using Xanax.
Next, discuss your options for long-term treatment.
There are also self-help strategies you’re able to use to care for yourself while you are recovering.
To aid in recovery and prevent relapse:
You might also consider joining a support group.
Such groups can be a great way to get support and encouragement from others who have faced similar challenges.
You might experience headaches while taking Xanax, after taking it, or as you taper off of it.
Some people report a hangover-like feeling after taking Xanax.
Don’t stop taking Xanax suddenly.
Instead, consult your healthcare provider before quitting it.
They will show you how to safely taper down your dosage gradually to minimize withdrawal effects.
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