Alprazolam Detox and Withdrawal

Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, depression-related anxiety and panic disorders, but it can be addictive if used for a long period of time. This prescription drug comes in a few different forms, including a liquid suspension, an orally disintegrating tablet and an extended-release tablet. If you or someone you care about needs a referral to a top alprazolam detox center in your area, call for recommendations and advice.

Alprazolam Addiction

Alprazolam belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, and it works by slowing chemical signals in the brain. Over time, the body can become used to the medication and build a tolerance for it. When this happens, a need for higher doses to achieve the same effect can develop. Some people increase the dose or take the drug more frequently than prescribed in an attempt to get the same effect they initially got from alprazolam. Others abuse this drug by crushing extended-release capsules to get a concentrated dose all at once. Taking excess alprazolam increases the risk of addiction, but halting suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms; however, abuse of this drug is not necessary for dependency to develop. Even someone who only takes the exact amount of alprazolam prescribed by his or her doctor may become addicted. If you find yourself unable to control your use of alprazolam, you may need to go to an alprazolam detox center to safely stop using this drug.

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, about 21.5 million Americans have used prescription tranquilizers, such as alprazolam, for non-medical purposes at least once in their lives.

The Dangers of Addiction

If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to alprazolam, it is important to get help as quickly as possible. An overdose of alprazolam can be extremely dangerous, and someone who is addicted is more likely to take additional doses, which may result in an overdose. Some signs of an alprazolam overdose include:

• Mental confusion
• Drowsiness
• Loss of coordination
• Loss of consciousness

“Anyone who has exhibited signs of an overdose after taking the drug should seek emergency medical help immediately.”Anyone who has exhibited signs of an overdose after taking the drug should seek emergency medical help immediately. This should then be followed by a stay at an alprazolam withdrawal treatment facility that has staff members trained in treating individuals addicted to this particular substance. To find the best alprazolam detox center for your circumstances, call for a free telephone consultation and referral.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, emergency room visits for alprazolam misuse and abuse increased by 125 percent between 2004 and 2008.

Detox and Withdrawal

When you enter into an alprazolam detox program, the first step in recovery from your addiction will be to stop the use of alprazolam. Because withdrawal can be uncomfortable, your doctor may choose to slowly wean you off this drug by reducing your dose slowly over time. Withdrawal and detox can be done at an inpatient alprazolam detox center or on an outpatient basis.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms when going through alprazolam detox vary between individuals. Some people have fewer or milder symptoms than others. Some common withdrawal symptoms in someone who has stopped using alprazolam include:

• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Increased sensitivity to noise
• Change in sense of smell
• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Loss of concentration
• Weight loss
• Decreased appetite
• Depression
• Aggressive behavior
• Numbness and tingling in the hands or feet
• Muscle pain
• Diarrhea
• Muscle twitching
• Uncontrollable shaking
• Seizures

Because some of these symptoms can have serious effects on the body, withdrawal should be medically supervised. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the risk of withdrawal seizures is highest 24 to 72 hours after halting alprazolam use completely.

Types of Alprazolam Detox Centers

The main choice when determining where to seek treatment for alprazolam addiction is whether to opt for an inpatient or outpatient program. In general, people who choose an inpatient program receive better support throughout the entire recovery process and are less likely to relapse after treatment is complete. Private detox centers vary greatly and may operate under different philosophies of care. Someone who wants top-notch medical care and fully trained medical staff who can prescribe medication to ease withdrawal symptoms may opt for a facility that is affiliated with a hospital or medical center. Individuals who want to break free of alprazolam addiction with a minimal amount of medical intervention may opt for a holistic rehab center. Holistic treatment programs may use meditation, yoga, art therapy, music therapy and other alternative techniques to help the individual get through the withdrawal symptoms and recover from addiction.

Some alprazolam detox centers focus on specific populations. Executive treatment facilities are geared to the needs of professionals, while teen rehab clinics may offer family counseling and other programs that address the unique needs of addicted teens. To discuss the different types of alprazolam detox centers and determine which style of care is right for you, contact one of our trained professionals at today.

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