Millions of people take prescription drugs to manage or treat health conditions. Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat anxiety and other conditions. 

Xanax has the potential to be addictive. People who misuse Xanax may become physically dependent on it. Xanax abuse has the potential to be life-threatening. People who abuse Xanax or become addicted to it typically need treatment to quit using it and avoid relapse. 

This article will explore the long-term effects of Xanax abuse. You will learn:

• How Xanax works
• The side effects and risks of Xanax abuse
• The long-term effects of abusing Xanax
• Where to find treatment and support in recovery

If you or someone you love struggles with Xanax abuse or substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Find the comprehensive treatment and support you need at Moving Mountains Recovery. Learn about our holistic treatment programs or schedule an appointment by contacting our intake specialists today. 

What is Xanax?

Xanax is the brand name for a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug called alprazolam. It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine in the United States. 

Doctors may prescribe Xanax to patients with anxiety, insomnia, or panic disorder. This drug works by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. GABA counteracts the effects of brain chemicals related to stress and anxiety. 

Taking Xanax can help people reduce symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. People with insomnia may find it helps them relax enough to fall asleep at night. 

While Xanax can be effective at relieving symptoms of anxiety, it also has the potential for abuse and addiction. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has some risk of abuse and dependence. 

People may like how they feel while taking it, which may lead to misuse. Xanax misuse includes:

• Taking a higher dose than prescribed
• Taking it more frequently than prescribed
• Taking it for a longer period than prescribed
• Using Xanax recreationally (without a prescription)

People who abuse Xanax may develop a dependence on the drug. People with Xanax dependence must seek treatment to stop using it safely. Without treatment, addiction may worsen, leading to serious long-term complications or death.

The Side Effects of Xanax

Doctors may prescribe Xanax to help people manage symptoms of anxiety or panic. Like most drugs, Xanax may cause side effects, including:

• Feelings of calm
• Slowed breathing
• Sedation

Some people may experience unwanted or dangerous side effects while using Xanax, including:

• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Increased depression with suicidal thoughts
• Fatigue
• Poor concentration
• Memory problems
• Weakness throughout the body
• Slurred speech
• Loss of coordination
• Dizziness

Abusing Xanax increases the risk of experiencing dangerous side effects. 

The Risks of Xanax Abuse

Addiction is one of the most significant risks of abusing Xanax. People who abuse Xanax by taking a high dose are also at risk of a life-threatening overdose. 

Signs of a Xanax overdose include:

• Slow or weak pulse
• Loss of muscle control
• Altered mental status
• Slurred speech
• Breathing problems, including slow or shallow breaths
• Confusion

Taking a large dose of Xanax can cause an overdose. Combining Xanax and other substances, including alcohol or other prescription medications, can increase the risk of overdose. 

A Xanax overdose is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention. If you or someone near you is experiencing an overdose, call 911 right away. 

Understanding the Long-Term Effects of Xanax Abuse

People who become addicted to Xanax may abuse it for many months or years. Long-term Xanax abuse can have long-term effects on your health and well-being. 

Here are some of the long-term effects of Xanax abuse.

Cognitive impairment

Xanax abuse can have serious effects on the brain’s health. Long-term Xanax abuse may damage the brain, resulting in cognitive impairment. People may experience effects like:

• Difficulty with spatial orientation
• Slower response times
• Memory issues
• Verbal skill decline
• Difficulty learning new words

These and other cognitive impairments can have a profound effect on a person’s daily functioning. 

Physical health complications

Research shows that Xanax abuse can lead to long-term health consequences, including:

• Muscle spasms and uncontrolled movements
• Chronic dizziness
• Liver disease
• Disorientation
• Increased risk of seizures

Someone may become dependent on Xanax after abusing it, meaning their body cannot function without Xanax. Physical dependence can be very challenging to treat. Physical dependence typically requires intensive rehab and lifelong support. 

Mental health problems

Xanax abuse can have a long-term effect on a person’s mental health. Some potential long-term mental health complications include:

• Delusional thoughts
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Paranoia

Abusing Xanax can worsen existing mental health conditions or lead to new symptoms. 

It can be challenging to overcome Xanax addiction, but getting the proper treatment and support can help. Holistic treatment programs provide evidence-based and holistic therapies. It can help people address the roots of their substance abuse and move forward into a healthier future.  

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love struggles with substance abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Moving Mountains Recovery specialists to learn more about your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.