Xanax Abuse and Addiction

What Is Xanax?

Xanax, also known by the brand name Alprazolam, is a medication classified as a benzodiazepine. Benzodiazepines are depressant medications, meaning that they slow down the brain and central nervous system. Xanax is often prescribed to help treat moderate to severe anxiety disorders. Xanax can also be prescribed to help treat insomnia and other sleep related issues, though this is not the common use of Xanax. Common street names for Xanax include Zannies and Zan Bars.

Can Using Xanax & Benzodiazepines as Prescribed Cause Dependence?

Even if Xanax and other benzodiazepines are prescribed by a doctor, repeated use can lead to addiction or dependence. This is due to how Xanax affects the brain and body. Xanax increases dopamine and GABA, which are neurotransmitters in the brain. GABA and dopamine both reinforce the reward center in the brain, leading to the individuals feeling as if they need to continue their Xanax use. This cycle helps an individual maintain their substance use and addiction over time. It is important for Xanax to only be taken as prescribed in order to decrease the chances of the development of addiction.

What Are the Addiction Rates From Xanax Use?

Xanax is one of the most frequently prescribed medications in the United States. Xanax is classified as a Schedule IV substance by the Drug Enforcement ADministration meaning that it can be used for medical purposes, though it is addictive. (4)

Causes & Risk Factors for Xanax Abuse & Addiction Development

There are many reasons why an individual may develop an addiction to Xanax. The exact cause for an individual’s Xanax use has not yet been determined, however, there are some risk factors that may increase one’s chances of becoming addicted.

Risk factors for Xanax misuse and addiction include: (5)

• Having a history of substance use.
• Having a family history of substance use.
• Favorable attitudes from loved ones towards substance use.
• Family rejection regarding sexual orientation or gender identity.
• History of post-traumatic stress disorder.

Xanax Use & Its Effect on Mental Health

Xanax is often used to help treat anxiety related mental health disorders. Xanax can reduce stress and tension in the body. Being utilized for the treatment of anxiety related disorders is one of the reasons why Xanax prescriptions have increased.

What Demographics Are Most at Risk of Xanax Abuse?

Research has found that those 50 years of age and older are at a higher risk of developing Xanax addiction due to them being more likely to use benzodiazepines more often than they are prescribed to aid with sleep disturbances. (6) Those ages 18 to 25 are also at risk of developing Xanax use disorder due to substance use being high amongst this age group. (7) Understanding which individuals are most at risk for Xanax addiction can help with treatment options.

Visible Signs Someone May Be Addicted to Xanax

There are identifiable signs and symptoms that are associated with Xanax addiction.

Common signs and symptoms associated with Xanax addiction or benzodiazepine use disorder include:

• Taking higher doses of Xanax for longer periods of time than initially intended.
• Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or stop Xanax use.
• Experiencing intense cravings and urges to engage in Xanax use.
• Continuing to engage in Xanax use despite experiencing personal problems directly caused by substance use.
• Spending time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of Xanax use.
• Engaging in drug seeking behaviors such as stealing prescriptions from loved ones or attempting to receive more than one prescription from doctors.
• Experiencing interpersonal problems due to Xanax use.
• Experiencing financial and legal issues as a direct consequence of Xanax use and dependence.
• Developing a physical tolerance, or needing larger amounts of Xanax in order to reach the desired effects.
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when Xanax use is suddenly stopped or cut back.