According to the American Psychiatric Association, addiction is “a complex condition, a brain disease that is manifested by compulsive substance use despite harmful consequence.” When someone is addicted to a substance, he or she has such an intense focus on using that substance that it completely takes over his or her life. According to studies, Xanax, or Alprazolam, is a medication that enhances the effects of GABA, a natural chemical in the body, in order to produce a calming effect and treat anxiety and panic disorders. If you are prescribed this medication, it is possible that you will develop an addiction to it if you take doses that are larger than the prescribed dose or if you have been using the medication for a prolonged amount of time. While many people take Xanax for its intended purposes, some people may become addicted to it after recreational use.
If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that you have an addiction to Xanax and should seek help from a health professional: the compulsion to take more and more of the medication, beyond the prescription limits; the necessity to take increasing amounts Xanax to experience the same effect; and experiencing signs of withdrawal when you stop taking Xanax.
What are signs of Xanax withdrawal?
When a person becomes addicted to Xanax, his or her mind and body both become dependent on the substance. When they stop the intake of the drug, they can experience a multitude of uncomfortable symptoms of withdrawal. Dizziness, insomnia, mood swings, and blurred vision are among the top signs of Xanax withdrawal. Convulsions and high blood pressure are also symptoms of withdrawal to look for, as well as panic, flashbacks, and derealization.
Can I really detox from Xanax at home?
You may ask yourself, “Can I detox Xanax at home?” The simple answer is yes, but it is important to remember to not try this at home alone. At home, Xanax detox is possible but is only safe when done with the assistance of an at-home concierge detox, like MD Home Detox.
The danger of trying to taper off Xanax on your own is that in addition to the symptoms of withdrawal you will experience, you will also experience a strong resurgence of panic disorder symptoms. Another issue with trying to taper Xanax on your own is that, if you do relapse and take the dose your previous tolerance was at, you could have an accidental overdose. Just a few days of being Xanax-free can drastically change your tolerance level, so a patient runs the risk of losing his or her life to an overdose when using dosage per their former tolerance. When using an at-home Xanax detox program, it is possible to detox within the comfort of your own home.
What happens during Xanax detoxification?
During detoxification, you will experience symptoms of withdrawal and a resurgence of panic disorder symptoms. Your withdrawal symptoms can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the severity of your addiction. In order to avoid negative effects such as psychosis and seizures, tapering in a controlled manner under medical supervision is necessary.
A variety of medications, such as Klonopin (Clonazepam), Phenobarbital, Buspirone (Buspar), Tegretol (Carbamazepine), and Tofranil (Imipramine), can be used during detox to reduce symptoms of withdrawal, seizures and/or anxiety.
Dehydration is possible during detoxification; dehydration can seriously exacerbate withdrawal symptoms, so it is important to stay hydrated during the detox process. Mild stimulants, such as caffeine, can also increase withdrawal activity and should thus be avoided, as should alcohol or other drugs. Small, bland meals can be easier to eat during detox, as you will likely be nauseated. Try to eat high protein foods to keep your strength up.
Detoxification is the first step in the process of recovery. Detox will rid your body of withdrawal symptoms but not of your addiction to Xanax. Long-term treatment, in addition to detoxification, is recommended to overcome an addiction to Xanax.
Let MD Home Detox help you detox from Xanax for good
MD Home Detox can help you detox for Xanax at-home. MD Home Detox is an industry leader for at-home drug and alcohol services. If you cannot attend an inpatient detox program or are just looking for a more discreet treatment option, then our at-home concierge detox for Xanax could be a good option for you. It is important to note that MD Home Detox does service based on criteria being met, so if you do not fit the criteria for at home Xanax detox, then they will assist in placing you at a facility that meets your specific needs and wants. Do not hesitate to call MD Home Detox at 888.592.8541 for a free confidential assessment.