Xanax Addiction & Treatment

Medical Assisted
Xanax Detoxification

Xanax is a prescription benzodiazepine most commonly prescribed for moderate or severe anxiety disorders. Xanax is potent and habit-forming, and even those that take the drug as prescribed are at risk of developing a physical and psychological dependence over time.  The symptoms associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal can be severe, and in order for associated symptoms to be adequately treated, entering into a medical detox center comes highly recommended. At Princeton Detox & Recovery Center we effectively treat all symptoms associated with Xanax withdrawal. Our team of licensed medical and therapeutic professionals work together to provide our clients with the most integrated and individualized care available. In addition to providing around-the-clock medical supervision, we offer a range of treatment services designed to help prepare our clients for continued success in sobriety. To learn more about our comprehensive program of Xanax addiction recovery, contact us today. 

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Xanax is a potent medication prescribed to treat moderate to severe anxiety disorders. Xanax is a benzodiazepine and can be habit-forming when it is used long-term or used other than as prescribed by a medical professional. This medication is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in the country and it also has significant potential for misuse; a combination that has led to high rates of Xanax dependence nationwide. Xanax can be addictive because physical and psychological tolerance occurs so quickly, meaning that more of the drug is required in order for the person to experience the same effects. When tolerance builds, a person might be inclined to take higher doses of the drug, which can lead to dependence and increase the risk of overdose. If a person abruptly stops using the medication, they will experience symptoms of Xanax withdrawal. Depending on the severity of the Xanax use disorder these symptoms can be life-threatening, which makes attending an inpatient detox program essential. 

In the State of New Jersey it is illegal to obtain or possess a medication like Xanax without a valid prescription, which must be written by a licensed medical professional. If a New Jersey resident is found in the possession of Xanax without a valid prescription, they might be subject to serious criminal offense charges. Depending on the amount of Xanax in the possession of the individual, they might also be charged with intent to distribute. Under New Jersey law it is illegal to operate heavy machinery while under the influence of a powerful central nervous system tranquilizer like Xanax, meaning those who are caught driving under the influence of Xanax or any other benzodiazepine medication might be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI). 

Because the demand for Xanax is particularly high statewide, some individuals have started to manufacture Xanax illicitly, combining a range of chemical substances and pressing them into the form of an oral tablet that closely resembles the brand name medication. Manufacturing and distributing Xanax illegally can bring about severe consequences. Some potential penalties for distributing or intent to distribute Xanax in New Jersey include the following:

• Being found under the influence of Xanax without holding a prescription, failing to turn the medication over to a police officer upon request, or carrying the drug in an unmarked container or a container other than the one it was in originally can result in a Disorderly Persons Offense. This might include up to 6 months in the county jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
• Being found in the possession of 4 Xanax pills (or less) without a valid prescription can result in a Fourth Degree Xanax Possession charge. This charge can lead to up to 18 months in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Being found in the possession of between 5 and 99 Xanax pills can result in a Third Degree Xanax Possession. Those who are charged with this offense might be sentenced to between 3 to 5 years in New Jersey State Prison and be asked to pay a fine of up to $200,000.
• Being found with 100 or more Xanax pills with intent to distribute these pills can result in a Second Degree Xanax Possession charge, which usually entails between 5 to 10 years in New Jersey State Prison and a fine of up to $300,000.

If you or someone close to you has been suffering from a Xanax use disorder, seeking professional help is crucial for a number of reasons. The physical symptoms associated with Xanax addiction and withdrawal can be severe and must be professionally treated. Additionally, the external consequences of Xanax misuse and dependence can lead to lifelong legal issues that greatly impact overall quality of life.

Even when used exactly as prescribed, Xanax use can lead to a range of physical and mental side effects. Some of these side effects are to be expected and are no cause for alarm, while others might indicate a serious underlying issue and require immediate medical attention. Common side effects of Xanax use include:

• Drowsiness. 
• Lightheadedness. 
• Fatigue. 
• Headache. 
• Anxiety or nervousness. 
• Restlessness and irritability. 
• Decreased libido. 
• Increased or decreased appetite. 
• Weight loss or weight gain. 
• Blurred vision. 

When a person takes Xanax for an extended period of time, the brain and central nervous system become unable to operate effectively in the absence of the substance. This can lead to long-term side effects — including misuse and dependence. 

Individuals who have been struggling with Xanax addiction will typically exhibit a wide range of behavioral, psychological and physical symptoms. If you believe you or someone close to you might be struggling with a Xanax addiction, there are several signs and symptoms to look for.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-V) outlines a list of diagnostic criteria associated with drug addiction. If you answer “yes” to two or more of the following questions, entering into a treatment program is likely a good idea. However, it is important to note that symptoms of Xanax use disorders vary in severity, and a multi-staged program of recovery is not an ideal option for everyone. Contact us today to learn more about what type of treatment program will best meet your unique, personal needs. 

The DSM-V diagnostic criteria for a benzodiazepine use disorder are outlined below. Ask yourself the following questions when attempting to determine whether or not professional treatment is right for you. 

1. Do you often use more Xanax than intended for a longer period of time than intended?
2. Have you attempted to cut back on the dose of Xanax you take to find yourself unable to cut back or quit for an extended period of time?
3. Do you spend a significant amount of time using Xanax and recovering from the effects of Xanax?
4. Are you often consumed by thoughts of using Xanax, or do you experience cravings for Xanax throughout the day?
5. Does using Xanax or recovering from the effects of excessive Xanax use affect your ability to take care of personal responsibilities and obligations?
6. Has benzodiazepine use caused issues and interpersonal problems between you and your family and/or friends?
7. Have you given up activities you previously enjoyed because of your Xanax use?
8. Have you experienced an increase in risk-taking activities as a result of your Xanax use, like combining Xanax with other chemical substances, driving while under the influence of Xanax, or obtaining Xanax without a valid prescription?
9. Have you experienced worsening symptoms of a physical or mental health problem as a direct result of your benzodiazepine use?
10. Have you developed a physical tolerance, meaning a higher dose of Xanax is required in order for the desired effects to be achieved?
11. Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop using Xanax abruptly?

An article published by the National Library of Medicine states, “Benzodiazepines taken in toxic doses without other coingestants rarely cause a significant toxidrome. The classic presentation in patients with isolated benzodiazepine overdose will include central nervous system (CNS) depression with normal or near-normal vital signs. Many patients will still be arousable and even provide a reliable history. Classic symptoms include slurred speech, ataxia, and altered mental status.” In so many words, benzodiazepine overdose is fairly uncommon. However, when a medication like Xanax is used in conjunction with another chemical substance like heroin, prescription painkillers, or alcohol, the risk of overdose increases significantly. 

The symptoms associated with Xanax withdrawal can be both physical and psychological in nature. It is never recommended that someone attempt to quit Xanax cold turkey or without close medical supervision. Doing so can result in life-threatening complications. Because this specific prescription medication is so potent the symptoms of withdrawal will likely begin within several hours. They will remain uncomfortable but not life-threatening until they peak in somewhere between the first and fourth day. The side effects of Xanax withdrawal are unpredictable, which is why they must always be monitored by a team of experienced medical professionals.

Symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include (but are not limited to):

• Muscle pain and aches.
• Headaches.
• Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
• Numbness in the fingers and toes.
• Insomnia/an inability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
• Severe anxiety.
• Profuse sweating.
• Heart palpitations and increased blood pressure.
• Loss of appetite/weight loss.

If you or someone you love has been suffering from a Xanax use disorder of any severity, Princeton Detox & Recovery Center is available to help. Our medically monitored detox program was designed with client comfort in mind. We provide our clients with a safe, pain-free Xanax withdrawal in a therapeutic setting, actively preparing them to take the next appropriate step on their personal recovery journeys. As soon as you make the decision to reach out for help you will be put in contact with one of our experienced and compassionate Treatment Advisors, who will help you determine whether or not our Xanax detox program is right for you. If we believe our program is a good fit, we will proceed with a brief pre-assessment and a free, no obligation health insurance benefit check. We accept coverage from most major national health insurance providers as well as most regional providers throughout New Jersey and surrounding areas. To learn more about Xanax addiction and treatment or to begin your own personal journey of Xanax addiction recovery, contact us today.