Xanax is the brand name of Alprazolam. It belongs to benzodiazepine medications that work on the brain and central nervous system (CNS) as a relaxant.
Naturally, this drug treats individuals with panic and anxiety disorders. It enhances a chemical in your body called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This chemical in your body, when activated by Xanax, decreases activity in the CNS and produces a sedation-like sensation.
Xanax produces a pleasant and relaxing high. However, Xanax is a prescription drug. Using Xanax without a prescription or using it beyond your doctor’s advice is considered substance abuse.
Common Side Effects of Xanax
People with anxiety and panic disorders use Xanax to relieve their symptoms. It helps them to relax and stay calm. But like any other drug, Xanax has its side effects like:
- drowsiness or dizziness
- lightheadedness
- low energy
- headache
- confusion
- insomnia
- nervousness
- restlessness
- irritability
- increased or decreased in libido
- a dry mouth or increased saliva
- constipation or diarrhea
- blurred vision
- menstrual disorders
- weakness
- increased or decreased appetite
- incontinence
Xanax, when taken in higher doses than recommended, may also cause hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, aggressive behavior, seizures, etc. Alprazolam can also affects your heart.
The Connection Between Xanax and Your Heart
Some studies show Xanax is effective in treating hypertension. While this is true, all medications come with risks.
Benzodiazepines like Xanax relax your CNS, but it also affects your heart by slowing down your heart rate and blood pressure. Taking high doses of this medication without your doctor’s advice may cause extreme inactivity of your brain and CNS that may impact your internal organs.
Xanax abuse can cause intense sedation and extreme inactivity in your body, which may lead to a lack of oxygen. Difficulty in breathing and slowed heart rate are common symptoms of Xanax overdose. These two can be deadly. Xanax abuse can also trigger heart diseases in the long run.
Xanax Addiction Treatment at Skyward Treatment in Dallas, Texas
While it is true that prescription drugs like Xanax help in improving symptoms of diseases, they may also cause addiction if taken without being monitored by health professionals.
Here at Skyward Treatment, we developed a program like Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment to help individuals combat addiction, break the cycle, and achieve long-term sobriety.
If you live in Dallas, Texas, and want to learn more about our facilities and programs, our helpline is open 24/7. Give us a call!