Xanax (Alprazolam) is a medication frequently prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders. As a benzodiazepine, it calms the central nervous system. It’s commonly used due to its quick-acting nature and effectiveness in managing short-term episodes of intense anxiety.
Xanax can help people with anxiety significantly. However, using it for a long time can lead to dependency. Over time, the body can become accustomed to the drug, leading to tolerance and, in some cases, physical dependence.
This can make stopping or reducing Xanax use challenging, often resulting in withdrawal symptoms that require careful management.
What Is Xanax Withdrawal?
Withdrawal, in the context of Xanax, refers to the symptoms (physical and psychological) that happen when someone who’s used the drug regularly reduces their dose or stops taking it altogether.
Why It Happens
The body’s dependence on Xanax develops because of the way it interacts with the brain.
Over time, Xanax enhances the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is responsible for calming the brain and reducing anxiety.
With long-term use, the brain becomes less effective at making GABA by itself. It relies more on Xanax to feel calm. When you reduce or stop using Xanax, your brain and body miss the calming effect. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline: How Long Does It Last?
In the first 24 to 48 hours after reducing or stopping Xanax, withdrawal symptoms often begin to surface.
During this early phase, many individuals experience anxiety, irritability, and physical discomfort like headaches, sweating, and muscle tension. This stage can be very hard. The body begins to react to the lack of the drug. This can cause increased anxiety and restlessness.
The symptoms are usually strongest during this time. Some people say the discomfort is the worst on the second day.
Early Withdrawal (3–7 Days)
As the withdrawal process continues into the first week, symptoms may escalate in intensity. Anxiety can become more pronounced, and individuals may experience muscle tension, insomnia, and difficulty focusing.
Cognitive disruptions, such as memory issues or foggy thinking, can also occur during this time.
For some people, severe symptoms can occur. These include panic attacks, dizziness, and nausea.
Extended Withdrawal (1–4 Weeks)
In the following weeks, symptoms of Xanax withdrawal can linger, with many individuals experiencing fatigue, depression, and difficulty concentrating.
While the worst symptoms often start to fade, you may still feel some discomfort. The recovery process can seem slow.
The Xanax withdrawal timeline can change based on a few factors. These include how long someone has used Xanax, the dosage, and their overall health.
Post-Acute Withdrawal (1 Month–6 Months)
For some individuals, withdrawal symptoms can persist even after the body completely clears the drug.
People refer to this as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS), and it can last for weeks or even months after they stop taking Xanax. Symptoms of PAWS can include ongoing anxiety, mood swings, and irritability.
These symptoms are not as strong as those felt during the first withdrawal period. However, they can still disrupt daily life.
Common Symptoms of Xanax Withdrawal
Common symptoms of withdrawal from Xanax include headaches, tremors, muscle aches, nausea, and sweating. These are all part of the body’s natural response to the sudden reduction or discontinuation of Xanax.
When the drug is no longer available, the body has a hard time adjusting. This can lead to uncomfortable physical effects.
Psychological Symptoms
People commonly experience anxiety, irritability, depression, and panic attacks during this time.
The brain, used to the calming effects of Xanax, now faces an imbalance. This leads to increased emotional distress.
Severe Symptoms
In more extreme cases, individuals undergoing Xanax withdrawal may experience severe symptoms like seizures. Though these are rare, they can occur, particularly in those who have used Xanax for an extended period or at high doses.
Seizures require immediate medical attention, and anyone experiencing this symptom should seek emergency care right away.
How Long Does Xanax Withdrawal Last?
The duration of Xanax withdrawal can vary greatly from person to person. Factors that impact it include:
- Duration of Xanax Use: People who use Xanax for a long time may face a longer and harder withdrawal process. The longer the body relies on the drug, the harder it becomes to adjust once someone discontinues it.
- Dosage: Individuals who have been taking higher doses of Xanax may face a more intense and prolonged withdrawal process. Higher doses show that the body relies more on the drug. This makes it harder to adjust to life without Xanax.
- Individual Health: A person’s overall health, including the health of their liver and kidneys, can impact how long withdrawal lasts. These play a crucial role in metabolizing and eliminating Xanax from the body. If a person has underlying health conditions that affect these organs, their withdrawal timeline may be longer.
The Typical Duration
For most people, Xanax withdrawal symptoms start to lessen within a few weeks. This happens as the body adjusts and learns to function without the drug.
The most intense symptoms generally occur in the first few days and can peak around day 2. After that, many physical symptoms, including headaches and muscle aches, will start to improve. Psychological symptoms, like anxiety and irritability, will also begin to ease.
Treatment Options for Xanax Withdrawal
One of the most effective treatment options for managing Xanax withdrawal is medically supervised detox.
During this process, healthcare professionals monitor your withdrawal symptoms to ensure safety and comfort. Medical detox helps manage the physical and mental effects of withdrawal. It can also prevent problems like seizures or severe anxiety.
Detoxification in a safe, professional setting offers support to help with withdrawal discomfort. It also ensures the body is safely free of the drug. Healthcare professionals may give medications to help alleviate symptoms and prevent severe reactions, making this an essential step for individuals withdrawing from Xanax.
Find Treatment for Xanax Withdrawal in California
Costa Mesa Detox is here to support you throughout the withdrawal process and beyond, offering medical detox, therapy, and resources to help you regain control of your health.
Reach out today to discuss how we can assist you in your journey to recovery.
References:
- Psychiatry Online: Benzodiazepines: A Perspective
- National Institute of Health (NIH): A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal
- NIH: Alprazolam
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