Xanax (Alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication that is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. It works by increasing the reuptake of GABA (a neurotransmitter) in the brain which decreases levels of abnormal excitement or anxiety. Although this medication is safe when used as directed, it is also a popular drug of abuse. Xanax can be habit-forming and physically addictive which is why it is not recommended for long-term use.
Taking Xanax for more than two weeks can lead to the development of physical dependence. People who are physically dependent on Xanax, whether from a prescription or illicit drug use, will experience painful and even life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop taking the drug. Xanax detox centers in West Palm Beach can provide medications and professional monitoring to keep individuals safe and comfortable during detox. Here is what individuals can expect as they begin their journey to recovery.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline
Xanax has a half-life of approximately 11.5 hours, so it takes 50 hours for the body to eliminate it from the system.[1] This means Xanax withdrawal can last for several days and even weeks. Withdrawal symptoms may begin 6-12 hours after a person’s last dose, peak after 1-4 days, and begin to subside after 5-7 days. Some psychological symptoms, like depression, anxiety, and irritability can linger for several months due to post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS).[2]
Symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include:
- Seizures or convulsions
- Diarrhea
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle spasms
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sore muscles
- Sweating
- Tremors
- Anxiety and panic
- Confusion
- Depression
- Extra sensitive to light and sound
- Insomnia
- Sleep disturbances
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Paranoia
- Fear
- Isolating from loved ones
Benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms tend to be more severe in people who have used Xanax for longer periods of time, have co-occurring health conditions, or have abused Xanax in combination with other substances (such as alcohol).
What is Xanax Detox Like in West Palm Beach?
Xanax is one of the most dangerous substances to detox from, especially cold turkey. Symptoms like seizures, paranoia, and panic can be life-threatening without professional help. Xanax detox centers in West Palm Beach provide individualized medical care to help patients begin their recovery journey.
Intake and Evaluation
Upon arrival at a detox center in West Palm Beach, individuals undergo a comprehensive intake and evaluation process. They meet with clinical and medical staff members to discuss various topics which will influence the treatment process. The team will gather information about the patients’:
- Medical history
- Length of Xanax use
- Regular dose consumed
- Any other substance use
- Current withdrawal symptoms
- Medications
- Treatment goals
This information helps the detox team develop an individualized treatment plan that meets the person’s unique needs.
Medical Stabilization
People should never stop taking Xanax cold turkey. Instead, the safest way to detox is to slowly reduce a person’s dose. The doctor will develop a tapering schedule during which he or she administers another long-acting benzodiazepine, gradually reducing a person’s dose until their withdrawal symptoms are tolerable.[3] Most of the time, patients will remain in detox until their tapering schedule is complete.
If severe symptoms or complications occur, medical staff is on-site 24/7 to provide medications and supportive care.
Medical Monitoring
Throughout Xanax detox in West Palm Beach, nurses and doctors check in with patients on a regular basis to monitor their symptoms and well-being. Nurses will check each patient’s vitals and provide any medical services that are needed. Staff is also ready to intervene in the event of a medical emergency.
Treatment Planning
Detox is only the first step in overcoming Xanax addiction. Addiction is a chronic condition that requires professional treatment and all detox does is remove the substance from the body and stabilize the patient’s physical health. Drug and alcohol rehab, on the other hand, focuses on helping individuals stay sober and lead healthy lives.
Before leaving detox in West Palm Beach, patients will meet with a substance abuse counselor to discuss their treatment options. Patients will verify their insurance, discuss their treatment needs, and have help choosing the right rehab program for them. Two of the most popular treatment options are inpatient rehab and intensive outpatient programming (IOP).
Start Xanax Detox in West Palm Beach Today
Xanax detox and withdrawal is a vital part of recovery, however, the process can be dangerous without proper guidance and support. As a result, medical supervision is key to a person’s safety and wellbeing during this time. Individuals are never encouraged to try detoxing at home or to stop taking Xanax suddenly, as doing so can increase the risk of life-threatening complications.
If you or someone you know is addicted to Xanax, it’s time to get help. Here at Daylight Recovery Center, our licensed and accredited detox and recovery center can show you the way. Between inpatient medical detox, residential treatment, and aftercare programs, we have all the services you need to get sober and stay sober. Don’t wait any longer. Call us today to begin your recovery journey.
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