Another risk of Xanax overdose comes when fake Xanax is acquired on the street instead of via a medical prescription. These pills may combine Xanax with other dangerous substances such as fentanyl, which can cause an overdose. For example, Xanax powder is sometimes added to pipes or bowls of weed for an additional feeling of relaxation.
- Xanax is a benzodiazepine medication for treating anxiety and panic disorders and occasionally relieving insomnia.
- Xanax itself is not the problem here, but rather, it is the additional substances that adds to the powdery mix that cause contamination.
- Individuals with a dependency on Xanax may also experience nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, delirium and light-headedness.
Of all the methods of taking Xanax, injecting the drug is likely the most dangerous. Xanax addiction is also a risk factor among those with mental illness who have been prescribed the drug for a legitimate purpose. Smoking Xanax represents a faster method of onset than swallowing pills or snorting it, because it is absorbed through the lungs. But as the desire grows for a more potent high that has a quicker onset rate, people who experience Xanax addiction may try other methods of taking the drug.
This is so that they can get the entire dose of the drug all at once, causing a near-instantaneous euphoric high which increases the relaxing and calming effect of benzos. Not only does using benzodiazepines in any way other than is prescribed by a doctor very dangerous, especially injecting it, it is also deadly as it increases the risk for an overdose. Benzodiazepines can be prescribed for many different medical conditions. The drugs are most widely taken for anxiety disorders like generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. However, some doctors recommend medications like Xanax to relieve anxiety related to mood disorders like depression— and to temper nausea from chemotherapy in cancer treatment. If you feel your benzodiazepine use has gotten out of your control, we can help.
Can You (Really) Smoke Xanax Pills?
All of our treatments are carried out by skilled members of staff who have experience in mental health symptoms and medication management. We match each client with a counselor who best suits their needs and employ peer recovery support specialists, substance use counselors, and mental health professionals. In fact, drug abuse is classified as when a person decides to take a drug without the instructions of a medical professional.
Whether you are struggling with addiction, mental health or both, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way. Don’t wait— reach out today to take the first step toward taking control of your life. The idea of injecting Xanax should be scary to people, but unfortunately, many continue to use Xanax in unprescribed ways. Many people think that by shooting Xanax directly into the bloodstream it’s possible to feel a stronger high, faster.
Individuals choose to snort, smoke or inject Xanax in order to intensify the effects of the drug and to decrease the time it takes for the drug to take effect. Unfortunately, snorting, smoking and injecting Xanax can lead to dependency. Our Lead Therapist, Megan, is a bilingual Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with adults who struggle with addiction, anxiety, depression, and trauma. As Lead Therapist, she provides individual, family, and group therapy sessions to our clients.
Mental Health Treatment
- He specializes in both Addictions and Trauma, he has worked first as a therapist then as the clinical supervisor to both the Juvenile and Adult Drug Court programs in Brevard County.
- Abusing Xanax can also result in drug dependence and, if taken for an extended period, it becomes highly addictive, so it is often only prescribed as a short-term treatment.
- When taken as prescribed, Xanax and other drugs in the same class (Ativan, Klonopin, etc.) relieve the symptoms of clinically diagnosed conditions such as anxiety or panic disorders.
- Xanax use treatment is available and, quite honestly, a major step in getting on the road to sobriety.
- When professional treatment is sought, you or a loved one will gradually taper off of Xanax with the support of a medical professional.
Xanax addiction is a significant problem that requires professional treatment. Thankfully, there are many treatment options available that can help people struggling with addiction to Xanax. Some people may abuse the medication by crushing the tablets and snorting them.
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Some people smoke Xanax by crushing Xanax pills before mixing the powder with tobacco or marijuana. This is extremely dangerous as Xanax should not be taken with any other substances. Relying on Xanax to catch those Z’s can lead to a cycle of needing more of the drug for sleep, which can be a slippery slope.
Join 40,000+ People Who Receive Our Newsletter Get valuable resources on addiction, recovery, wellness, and our treatments delivered directly to your inbox. As tolerance to the drug builds, people may take larger doses to achieve the same effects. However, it can be addictive and should not be taken without a doctor’s supervision. These methods of Xanax abuse can be extremely dangerous and lead to several serious side effects.
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This page will discuss the dangers of snorting and injecting Xanax and how to get help for yourself or a loved one if you’re struggling with addiction to Xanax. There are not just the risks of shooting up Xanax specifically to consider. Injecting anything directly into your veinscan leave you at risk forsores, abscesses, infections and diseases like AIDS and Hepatitis C. It can also lead to problems with your heart and other organs. People choosing to take the drug intravenously must dissolve it in alcohol, which is even more dangerous. Xanax that is not fully dissolved can lead to blockages in blood vessels, causing stroke, heart attack and other problems.
It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is a prescription medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. While it is typically taken orally, some individuals may seek faster effects by intravenously injecting the drug. It is imperative to note that injecting any substance intravenously can be dangerous and should only be done under medical supervision when necessary.
I obtained my masters in applied behavioral analysis and started off working with people with disabilities. I then found my love for counseling when I worked with juveniles who had mental health and substance use issues. I then decided to go back for my mental health therapy license after that and working in a forensic treatment center. I went on to obtain my therapy credentials and since 2017, I have also been working on my PhD in forensic psychology in which I am currently working on my dissertation.
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After injection, monitor yourself for any adverse effects, such as dizziness, difficulty breathing, or allergic reactions. If you experience any concerning symptoms, seek medical help immediately. Injecting Xanax intravenously can have serious consequences, including but not limited to vein damage, infections, overdose, and even death. It is crucial to weigh the potential risks against the perceived benefits before proceeding. If you or a family member needs addiction treatment, you can find help at Bedrock Recovery Center, a treatment center located in Massachusetts.
It kicks in quickly and lasts for several hours within the body, unlike long-acting benzos, which can be in effect for 12 to 24 hours. But Xanax is also a controlled substance with a propensity for abuse. Taking the drug without a prescription and in a non-medical mode of ingestion like smoking is therefore potentially very dangerous. Our state-specific resource guides offer a comprehensive overview of drug and alcohol addiction treatment options available in your area. Xanax can have dangerous side effects when abused, leading to addiction and other health problems. Xanax is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means it has a moderate potential for abuse and can lead to dependence.
Millions of people have changed their relationship with substances, cut back on how much they’re using, or stopped using altogether. If you need treatment for a Xanax dependency, give our friendly representatives a call today. Mr. Ayuso received his Graduate Degree in Clinical Social Work from the University of Central Florida in Orlando. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as Certified Addictions Professional in the State of Florida, and Internationally Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor. Aurelio specializes in the treatment of Addiction, Trauma, and inject xanax Abandonment using strength based strategies deeply rooted in Solution Focused, and Mindfulness Therapies.
Despite Xanax being a legal medication that’s prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, muscle spasms and seizures, it is still possible to overdose on it. Individuals who are overdosing on Xanax may have slurred speech and slow reaction times, and they may appear to be confused. They can also experience chest pain, tremors, breathing problems and convulsions. If you suspect that someone is suffering from a Xanax overdose, it’s important to get them emergency medical treatment right away.
