Xanax Addiction

Xanax addiction Pennsylvania usually occurs accidentally. Xanax is prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks or moderate to severe stress. A medication that is available by prescription only, Xanax, produces a calming effect on the brain by "slowing it down." Xanax, the brand name for alprazolam, slows down neurotransmitters called gamma-aminobutric acid. Individuals that suffer from anxiety disorders or panic attacks seem to have overactive neurotransmitters and by slowing them down the drug tends to relieve feelings of stress and impending doom. When these calming effects cannot be duplicated unless Xanax usage is increased, a Xanax addiction can result.

The Effects of Xanax Addiction
Those who abuse Xanax find pleasure in the drowsy feeling that it causes. Xanax electrifies the brain’s pleasure centers with an initial euphoric feeling that is rarely recaptured. The chase is on to recreate that feeling and a Xanax addiction is born.

Upon taking Xanax, one may experience drowsiness, loss of concentration, loss of motor skills or slurred speech. Generally, these symptoms dissipate after several days. Unfortunately, after experiencing the calming effect this medication can produce, many people continue to seek an even a greater feeling of calm and will begin to increase the amount of medication they take. With an increase in Xanax use and an ever-increasing tolerance, a Xanax addiction Pennsylvania soon emerges. As with other prescription medications such as, OxyContin, Vicodin or codeine, when tolerance increases and prescriptions run out prematurely, the person must find additional Xanax and will do whatever is necessary to avoid running out of the drug and experiencing the symptoms associated with Xanax addiction withdrawal.

At some point in their Xanax addiction Pennsylvania, the addict might be taking between 20 - 30 pills a day. Even before this point, it is extremely dangerous to discontinue Xanax use on your own. Discontinuing Xanax without medical supervision can produce seizures and convulsions, which can be life threatening.