Since Xanax is an Schedule IV regulated narcotic, it is a legal medical usage and the possibility of addiction and abuse.

According to research, those who have a history of substance use disorder, a condition characterized by a habitual use of drugs that is not harmful, are at a higher risk to consuming and developing addiction to benzodiazepines. Another study showed that those who previously taken opioids or alcohol chose alprazolam because they thought it was more satisfying in comparison to other benzodiazepines.

Any benzodiazepine can cause physical dependence if used for a long enough duration of. If a person ceases to use a benzodiazepine like Xanax after developing physical dependent on it, they could have a number of distinct withdrawal signs.

Alprazolam (Xanax) Withdrawal Syndrome

Alprazolam and alprazolam-XR have the same risk of withdrawal as other benzodiazepines.

The withdrawal of alprazolam has been associated with the more complex and in certain aspects, distinct rebound anxiety than other withdrawal syndromes caused by benzodiazepine.

One study reported that of 17 patients with the disorder of panic treated by alprazolam, 15 patients had an increase or recurrence in panic attacks and 9 showed severe new somatic symptoms, for example, malaise, weakness and sleepiness, tachycardia and dizziness following alprazolam discontinuation; regardless of tapering over four weeks. [2]

Another study revealed that of 126 patients with the disorder of panic treated by alprazolam, 27% had rebound anxiety that exceeded pretreatment anxiety, and 35% had new somatic symptoms following alprazolam discontinuation; despite a taper over four weeks. [3]

Alprazolam withdrawal syndrome could present unique clinical signs compared with other withdrawal syndromes involving benzodiazepine. For instance, there are many cases of delirium and psychosis caused by withdrawal of alprazolam.

Xanax withdrawal from detox Timeline

Xanax is a medicine used to treat anxiety. It specifically belongs to the group of medications called benzodiazepines that act in the Central Nervous System (CNS) to provide short-term relief from anxiety.

It can be taken by mouth or via injection based on the condition being treated and how severe it is. However, even though it's a prescription medication but overdose and addiction could be a problem.

If you decide to stop taking Xanax the first stage starts within 6 to 12 hours following the dose that was taken. In this stage, symptoms can range from mild irritation up to intense pain , which is often accompanied with nausea , vomiting and nausea. By the second day, withdrawal symptoms get more intense, such as nervousness in the form of tremors, seizures, and tremors. The different stages will be felt from one to four days after the first day of withdrawal.