How Long Does it Take to Detox From Xanax

Anti-Anxiety Medication Xanax and Dependency

When most people get a prescription for Xanax which is also known as Alprazolam, it is because they are typically going through a difficult period emotionally and need some help managing the excessive stress or anxiety.  The problem with Xanax is that even taking the drug as prescribed can lead to addiction in short order.  Why?  Because tolerance to the effects of the drug ramps up quickly, leading the individual to take more of the medication to experience the relief they seek.

Once a Xanax addiction has developed the GABA production in the brain is reduced and the nervous system is impacted as a result of the daily influx of the drug.  When the individual senses they are developing a problem with Xanax they may attempt to stop taking the drug.  Within hours nasty Xanax withdrawal symptoms emerge that can only be quelled by taking more Xanax.

At this point, the individual understands they need help for the Xanax dependence that has formed and knows that detox is a reality if they are ever going to break free from the grip of this drug.  In anticipation of this first step in recovery they may ask, “How long does it take to detox from Xanax” so they can mentally prepare.  Knowing what to expect gives the individual an opportunity to set their mind to getting through detox and into treatment.

So, How Long Does it Take to Detox from Xanax

Xanax is in the benzodiazepines family, meaning that any attempt to stop the drug should be under medically supervised conditions.  This is because withdrawing from a benzodiazepine, including the drugs Ativan and Valium, can produce unpredictable and dangerous symptoms, including seizures.  A medical detox for Xanax dependence will provide the safe and supportive environment necessary to be able to complete the detox and get into treatment.

When entering detox, the individual will wonder how long does it take detoxing off Xanax medication.  Generally, the detox time from Xanax takes anywhere from one week to a month, depending on the history and severity of the addiction.  During a supervised medical detox, a detox nurse and addiction specialists will manage the withdrawal symptoms, easing the discomfort by administering medications as needed.

There are two distinct withdrawal phases experienced during the detox process.  The detox period begins with the early withdrawal phase, where the individual will likely experience rebound symptoms such as agitation and anxiety, which can last up to four days.  During the early phase, the individual will be prescribed a drug-tapering schedule in order to avoid seizures or coma.  One should never go off Xanax cold turkey.  After that the acute withdrawal phase commences, with symptoms peaking at about two weeks.

Alprazolam and Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms

When entering detox for Al Xanax the withdrawal symptoms will vary depending on several factors.  These include how long the individual used the drug and at what dosage levels, whether there are other substance use disorders, if there is a co-occurring mental health disorder, and the presence of any medical conditions.

Potential withdrawal symptoms can include:

• Insomnia
• Blurred vision
• Rapid heart rate
• Headache
• Tremors
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness
• Aching, twitching muscles
• Confusion
• Insomnia
• Increased blood pressure
• Cramps
• Sweating
• Agitation
• Nervousness
• Impaired breathing
• Loss of appetite
• Sensitivity to light and sound

Once the detox phase is complete, the individual then enters an inpatient or outpatient addiction treatment program that will provide the support and education to help them lead a Xanax-free life.

Safely Detox Off Xanax and Treatment Programs

The Treatment Specialist will connect you with a treatment center that consists of a team of addiction experts who understand how easily a Xanax addiction can sneak up on a person.  The specialists offer a free assessment tool that helps them determine the level of care needed for treating your specific Xanax use disorder, and can then locate high quality detox and treatment absolutely free of charge.  For more information about how long does it take to detox from Xanax, please contact a Treatment Specialist today at (866) 644-7911.