Xanax is a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. Unfortunately, it’s a medication that is easy to misuse. Xanax affects the central nervous system, making it difficult to stop using. Even when not being abused, Xanax requires a doctor’s care to gradually wean off. When abused, medical detox is necessary to make the individual as comfortable as possible.
Understanding Xanax Detox Symptoms
Withdrawal from Xanax will vary depending on the severity of misuse. Reported withdrawal symptoms include:
- Anxiety
- Hyperventilation
- Tremors
- Panic attacks
- Insomnia
- Loss of appetite
- Sweating
- Discomfort
- Unusual and abnormal sensations
- Hypersensitivity to touch and sound
- Psychosis
- Delirium
- Delusions
- Hallucinations
- Seizures
What Happens During Xanax Detox?
During detox from Xanax, the medical team will assess your withdrawal symptoms. They may begin by providing smaller doses of Xanax and reduce the doses over time until you no longer need it. Other medications may also be provided to make you more comfortable during the process. Staff will also encourage you to embrace psychotherapy and support groups.
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How Long Does Xanax Detox Last?
Medical detox can last from 1 to 2 weeks but overall, it can take up to several months. It depends on the severity of the dependency. Once you leave medication-assisted detox, you may have to check in with your doctor for a while to continue managing your withdrawal and ensure you are staying on top of your health. It is widely encouraged to seek residential care after detox to continue the healthy process.
What To Do After Detox
After you complete a medical detox, rehabilitation is the next step. This can include a residential or a partial-hospitalization stay. Individual psychotherapy, group therapy, and cognitive-behavioral therapy are often the core of treatment. These modalities help identify the root of the addiction and help you to recover. The goal is to ensure that you do not relapse into using Xanax, or other substances, again.