Clinically Reviewed by: Brittany Astrom - LMFT
If you or someone you love has been prescribed Xanax bars, it’s crucial to understand their types, strengths, potential dangers, and side effects. As a reputable dual diagnosis treatment center in Lake Forest, CA, OC Revive is dedicated to providing comprehensive information to help individuals make informed decisions about their health and wellbeing. In this detailed guide, we will delve into the specifics of Xanax bars to ensure you have the knowledge necessary to navigate their usage safely.
What Are Xanax Bars?
Xanax bars, also known as alprazolam, are a form of prescription medication primarily used to manage anxiety and panic disorders. They belong to the benzodiazepine class of drugs, known for their calming effect by enhancing the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain.
Types and Strength of Xanax Bars
Xanax bars come in various types and strengths, characterized mainly by their color, dosage, and manufacturer. Understanding these can help ensure correct usage and prevent accidental overdoses.
- Green Xanax Bars: These are similar in strength to the white and yellow bars, usually containing 2mg of active alprazolam.
- White Xanax Bars: These are rectangular bars that contain 2mg of active alprazolam, often referred to as “sticks” in the streets.
- Yellow Xanax Bars: Known as the generic form of the drug, they usually have R039 inscribed on them and contain 2mg of alprazolam.
- Blue Xanax Bars: These contain 1mg of alprazolam and are lower in strength compared to the other bars.
- Peach Xanax Bars: These are oval in shape and contain lower doses of alprazolam, usually 0.5mg.
Dangers of Xanax Bars
Xanax bars, when misused or used for extended periods, can pose significant health risks. Some of the dangers associated with improper usage include:
- Addiction and Dependency: Xanax is highly addictive, and prolonged use can lead to physical and psychological dependence.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Abrupt cessation can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, intense anxiety, and, in extreme cases, death.
- Overdose Risks: Taking Xanax in higher-than-prescribed doses can result in an overdose, leading to respiratory depression, coma, or even death.
- Impaired Judgment and Drowsiness: Xanax use can cause drowsiness, slowed reaction times, and impaired judgment, affecting one’s ability to drive or operate heavy machinery.
Side Effects of Xanax Bars:
While Xanax is effective in relieving anxiety, it can also cause various side effects. Common side effects include:
- Drowsiness or light-headedness
- Insomnia or other sleep problems
- Memory problems
- Poor balance or coordination
- Slurred speech
- Trouble concentrating
Designation:
It’s important to note that Xanax bars are designated as a Schedule IV controlled substance by the DEA. This means they have a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule II or III drugs, but they still carry a risk of dependence and misuse.
Understanding Xanax Dependency
Xanax dependency develops when your body becomes so accustomed to the presence of this drug that it can no longer function normally without it. Dependency can be both physical and psychological. Physically, your body craves the substance due to the changes in your brain’s chemical makeup, and psychologically, you believe that you cannot cope or function without taking the drug, especially in stressful situations or when dealing with anxiety or panic disorders.
Development of Tolerance: Over time, you may need higher doses of the medication to achieve the same effects, which is a phenomenon known as tolerance. This increasing need significantly contributes to the development of dependency.
- Withdrawal Symptoms: Dependency is further characterized by the onset of withdrawal symptoms when the medication is not taken. These symptoms can include increased anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain, and, in severe cases, seizures.
- Emotional Dependence: Aside from the physical aspects, emotional dependence is also a concern. Users might find the prospect of facing daily life without the medication daunting, increasing their psychological reliance on it.
If you notice these signs of dependency, it’s imperative to seek professional help. Gradually reducing the dosage under medical supervision, known as tapering, is typically necessary to safely wean off the medication and reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Recognizing Xanax Overdose
A Xanax overdose is a serious matter and occurs when someone has ingested more than their body can safely process. This excess intake affects the brain and can slow down vital functions, leading to life-threatening symptoms or even death.
- Symptoms of Overdose: Signs of a Xanax overdose can include extreme drowsiness, confusion, coordination problems, slow reflexes, slowed or difficulty breathing, fainting, and coma.
- Combination with Other Substances: The risk of overdose increases significantly if Xanax is combined with other substances, especially alcohol or opioid drugs. These combinations can lead to severe respiratory depression, profound sedation, coma, or death.
- Immediate Action is Crucial: If an overdose is suspected, it’s vital to seek emergency medical attention immediately. Quick intervention can significantly affect the outcome and recovery process.
Call OC Revive Today for Help!
If you or a loved one is struggling with dependence on Xanax bars or experiencing any adverse side effects, it is crucial to seek professional help immediately. At OC Revive, we specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for both teens and adults in Lake Forest, CA. Contact us today at 844-954-3890 – we are here to support your journey to recovery.
FAQs
Yes, prolonged or improper use of Xanax can lead to physical and psychological addiction.
Long-term use of Xanax can lead to dependence, withdrawal symptoms, memory issues, and potential cognitive deficits.
No, stopping Xanax suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to taper off the medication under medical supervision.
If you’ve taken more than the prescribed dose, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately, as this can lead to an overdose.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Xanax misuse or dependence, call OC Revive at 844-954-3890 for comprehensive support and treatment options.
