What Is Xanax Used For?

For many LGBTQ+ individuals, life can be a delicate balancing act. Between dealing with societal stigma, personal relationships, and internal struggles, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. In the pursuit of finding calm and serenity, some may turn to prescription medications like Xanax. But what exactly is Xanax, what is it used for, and how does it fit into the bigger picture of our mental health? As a community that already faces disproportionate rates of anxiety and depression, it's essential to understand the role that Xanax plays in treating these conditions. So, let's take a closer look at what Xanax is used for? What it really does, and if it is right for you?

What To Know About Xanax?

Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine that acts on the central nervous system to produce a calming effect. The substance works by increasing the activity of a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, enhancing overall relaxation and helping to reduce anxiety. It is unique from other benzodiazepines because it has a rapid onset of action, beginning to work very quickly after it is taken. For most people, the effects are felt within 15 minutes of taking the medication and can last for up to six hours. However, it is not intended for long-term use due to its high profile for dependence and addiction. When taken for an extended period, the body begins to develop an increased tolerance to its effects, often resulting in higher dosing, which can lead to dependence.

What Is Xanax Used For

Having an idea of what certain medications are used for can help a person make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Xanax is used mostly in the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic attacks. There are several types of anxiety disorders that Xanax can help treat. The side effects of anxiety that Xanax can help treat include:

• Excessive worry and irrational fears. This is the most common symptom of anxiety. Worrying excessively about things or fearing irrational things to the point where a person cannot function normally could be a red flag for anxiety.
• Agitation or irritability. When an individual is feeling anxious, it is very easy for them to become agitated or feel irritable. They feel uncomfortable and on edge, because their brain thinks it has sensed danger.
• Difficulty concentrating. Anxiety can easily interrupt a memory or a train of thought.
• Trouble sleeping. Anxiety can often cause a person intense worry that they cannot sleep at night. When they finally find comfort in sleeping, they can sleep for several hours or become fatigued from being awake for so long.
• Panic attacks. The most debilitating symptom of anxiety, panic attacks can cause an intense fear or worry that the person experiences rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea and fear of dying.
• Isolation. Individuals who suffer from anxiety will try their best to avoid potentially triggering situations, which could result in extreme isolation.

What Are The Side Effects Of Xanax?

As with all medications, there are some potential side effects of Xanax. There is no way to tell if or what Xanax side effects an individual will have as it depends on the following factors;

• How do they tolerate the drug
• The individual's physical makeup
• Their age

Many physical and psychological side effects can arise when taking Xanax and these can affect the LGBTQ+ person in both the short and long term. Some of the side effects of Xanax include;

• Nausea
• Lethargy or sedation
• Slurred speech
• Reduced coordination and reflexes
• Impaired cognitive function
• Memory loss
• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Anxiety
• Agitation
• Hallucinations

Addiction to Xanax

One of the major effects of Xanax is that it is a highly addictive medication. Because it is often prescribed to manage anxiety, PTSD and panic disorders, it has a great potential for dependency making it important to use this drug exactly as directed by a healthcare provider. When taken over a long period or in higher doses than prescribed, the body can become dependent on Xanax, leading to addiction. If an individual starts feeling dependent or addicted to the medication, it’s essential to let a medical professional know as soon as possible. This can prevent the situation from escalating and allow for alternative treatments to be explored.

The Signs of Xanax Addiction 

While it may be difficult for an individual struggling with Xanax addiction to admit that they have a struggle, being able to recognize these signs can help them seek help. Pay attention to these major red flags of addiction:

• Drug-seeking behavior, such as having multiple prescriptions or multiple doctors
• Taking more Xanax than what is prescribed
• Taking Xanax at inappropriate times of the day, such as in the morning, at school or at work
• Feeling like the individual cannot slow down or stop using
• Drinking alcohol or taking other drugs while taking Xanax
• Changes in eating patterns, sleeping patterns, hygiene or weight
• Isolating from friends, family and loved ones in favor of taking Xanax

Withdrawal From Xanax

When someone has been using Xanax for a long period of time and suddenly stops taking it, the body can begin to suffer from withdrawal symptoms. This is due to the fact that the brain and body have become chemically rewired to depend on the drug, so readjusting back to normality can be uncomfortable. Similar symptoms as initial dosing can happen when withdrawal of Xanax occurs. They often occur within a few hours of the last dose and will be the most severe within a few days. Withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Muscle pain
• Tremors
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Panic
• Sweating
• Seizures
• Paranoia
• Numbness in hands or fingers
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Panic
• Sensitivity to light or sound

Get Help At Pride Detox

Overcoming a Xanax addiction can be a difficult journey, but it is worth the effort. Pride Detox can provide you with the resources and support you need to overcome this addiction, and offers treatment for other substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Our treatment plans are tailored to the unique needs and preferences of the individual, so their experience is relevant and engaging. If you or your LGBTQ+ loved one is ready to conquer Xanax addiction and start the recovery journey today, contact Pride Detox at  1-562-525-5121.