Side Effects Of Xanax
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CONTENTS
Xanax is associated with serious side effects, ranging from drowsiness, and memory problems to dependency and addiction. Studies have revealed that up to 40%of patients on long-term benzodiazepine treatment develop dependence thus the use of Xanax should be carefully managed to avoid future adverse effects.
Xanax is a prescription drug used for treating anxiety and panic disorders. The main component of the drug is alprazolam and it belongs to the group of drugs influencing the central nervous system (CNS). Xanax works by increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that reduces the overactivity of the nerves [1]. It is beneficial in soothing people who have cases of anxiety, stress, or even panic disorders. It is available in different types of drug forms including tablets, capsules extended-release capsules, and even dissolvable drug forms to treat anxiety disorders.
How Does Xanax Work In The Body
After taking Xanax, the drug acts on certain receptors in the brain that control the activity of nerves. This action raises the levels of GABA which is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in reducing the rate of brain activity. This process brings about a feeling of relaxation and can help to control anxiety and panic attacks.
It is one of the fast-acting drugs, with the effect being felt within 30 minutes and may last for several hours depending on the dosage and form taken [1]. Because it provides a temporary solution, it is suitable for use by individuals suffering from acute anxiety.
Why Are People Prescribed Xanax
Doctors use Xanax to treat various anxiety disorders. The most common conditions include:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Short-term use for specific anxiety
It is also used in the treatment of insomnia, but this is relatively rare because of its sedative effects [1]. Xanax is also useful in the management of other symptoms that are characteristic of anxiety disorders such as excessive worrying, fear of having a panic attack, chest pain, and difficulty in breathing. Nevertheless, it is addictive and, therefore, doctors recommend its usage for a short time or in small quantities.
Common Side Effects In Men And Women
Xanax like any other drug has side effects that may differ from one person to another. Some of the most common side effects include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Impaired coordination
- Memory problems
- Dry mouth
Most of these side effects are usually mild and are likely to affect new users of the drug more frequently [2]. These side effects are common to both men and women although the degree of side effects may differ with the level of tolerance and the amount of the drug taken.
Can Xanax Cause Hallucinations
Hallucinations are a very uncommon but quite dangerous adverse effect of Xanax. Some of the side effects include hallucinations which are common in those people who take high doses or those who use Xanax for a long time. These hallucinations may be auditory or visual and are commonly associated with confusion or other forms of cognitive dysfunction [1]. They are, however, discouraged and if they occur, the patient should be taken to a doctor to have the dosage reviewed or to be given a new treatment plan.
Do Side Effects of Xanax Go Away Over Time
Some of the side effects like drowsiness and dizziness may decrease as the body adapts to the drug. This is known as tolerance. But not all side effects are temporary and some may worsen with time and even persist even after stopping the use of the drug [2]. Side effects can also appear later on when a person takes Xanax for a long time so it is essential for anyone who is on Xanax to be monitored in the long run.
How Xanax Affects Women
Possible Side Effects While both men and women can have side effects from Xanax, women may have some side effects more than men. Research suggests that women metabolize Xanax differently due to hormonal factors, leading to a potentially higher risk of side effects such as:
- Mood swings
- Emotional numbing or the lack of emotional responsiveness.
- Weight gain
Such side effects can become a real nuisance for a woman, especially if the medication is taken for a long time.
Hormonal Impact And Xanax Side Effects In Females
Hormones are an important factor in how medications work in women. For example, estrogen levels can affect how Xanax is metabolized in the liver, which can cause alternating efficacy and adverse reactions in patients [1]. Xanax is not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating women because the effects of the drug on the baby are unknown. Also, the hormonal changes that come with the menstrual cycle or menopause may enhance the drug’s side effects such as drowsiness or lethargy.
Unintended Side Effects of Xanax on Female Mental Health
Xanax when used for a long period has adverse effects on the mental health of a woman. Aside from the intended calming effects, Xanax may lead to:
- Increased depression
- Emotional numbness
- Difficulty concentrating
Women take Xanax for anxiety or panic disorders and end up developing a dependency where their mental health deteriorates. At times, after the effects of the drug have worn off, anxiety may come back in even worse form, a phenomenon referred to as rebound anxiety.
Differences In Side Effects Of Xanax In Men
While most of the side effects of Xanax are similar for both genders, some effects are worse in men than in women. Men are slightly more likely to experience issues related to sexual function, including:
- Decreased libido
- Erectile dysfunction
- Difficulty achieving orgasm
These side effects are because Xanax may affect the central nervous system, which is responsible for sexual stimulation and erection. These side effects are usually short-term but may become chronic if the drug is used for a long time.
Physiological And Psychological Responses In Men
Men using Xanax might also encounter physical side effects such as:
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Weight fluctuations
Psychologically, Xanax can cause aggressiveness, mood swings, and emotional numbness in men. These symptoms may interfere with a person’s interpersonal relationships and his or her social interactions in the community. Men may also be at a higher risk of developing dependency or abuse of Xanax because they might be using the drug to deal with stress or work-related anxiety.
Long-Term Effects Of Xanax On Male Health
Side effects of Xanax in men are dangerous when the drug is used for a long time. Aside from the potential for dependency, long-term effects include:
Cognitive decline: Some of the symptoms that may be seen in men include memory loss or problems with concentration.
Emotional detachment: Xanax can result in emotional numbing and that is why men may experience a lack of feelings or relationships [1].
Liver damage: Xanax is metabolized in the liver and its use over a long period can cause damage to this organ, especially in men who may also be taking alcohol.
Some of the complications are however preventable through frequent medical checkups.
Why Are The Elderly At A Higher Risk
The elderly population is at higher risk of the side effects of Xanax since their metabolism and overall health are different. With age, the results of the drug action change, and the person can have a higher concentration of the substance in his body due to slower metabolism [3]. This increases the risk of side effects such as:
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Cognitive impairment
Like any other medication, the use of Xanax is also associated with certain side effects which are aggravated by the fact that many of the older adults are on other medications.
Cognitive Decline and Xanax Side Effects in Elderly People
Cognitive impairment is one of the worst side effects that can be observed in elderly patients. Xanax affects memory and concentration, which is dangerous to senior citizens who are prone to diseases such as dementia. It is also important to note that the use of Xanax may cause worsening of cognitive system diseases which may lead to symptoms like confusion. These cognitive impairments may hinder the elderly patient’s ability to perform certain activities and thus their quality of life may be affected.
Xanax And Falls: Physical Risks For Elderly Patients
Possible side effects of Xanax include drowsiness, dizziness, and poor coordination, which can be problematic for elderly patients. These symptoms raise the likelihood of falls, which are hazardous and may cause injuries such as fractures or head injuries. The depressant action of Xanax may also reduce the patient’s ability to regain balance or respond quickly in situations that may be hazardous for the elderly [3]. This is why it becomes crucial for healthcare providers to ensure that the elderly are closely watched when taking Xanax and if possible, look for other forms of treatment.
Physical Health: Impact of Long-Term Xanax Use
Long-term use of Xanax has many adverse effects on the physical health of the user, and some of these effects could be life-threatening. Common issues include:
- Dependence And Withdrawal: Long-term use of the substance enhances the chances of building up tolerance, and physical and psychological dependence. If Xanax is stopped suddenly, withdrawal symptoms can include anxiety, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures [1].
- Respiratory Issues: Xanax can lead to respiratory disorders, particularly if taken in large quantities or in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs that depress the central nervous system.
- Gastrointestinal Issues: It has been reported that long-term use of the drug causes digestive system-related side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or constipation.
The physical side effects of Xanax are a reason to take the drug only under the doctor’s supervision, especially if you have been prescribed the medication for a long time.
Long-Term Xanax Effects on Brain Function
Long-term side effects of Xanax use on the brain include; While the drug works by calming neural activity, long-term use can lead to:
Cognitive impairment: Long-term use of Xanax may lead to memory problems, and problems with concentration and decision-making.
Tolerance: This is because, with time, the brain becomes less sensitive to the impact of Xanax, and therefore more Xanax is needed to bring about the same calming effect. This may lead to dependence and also increase the chances of developing an overdose.
Long-term use of Xanax affects the brain in a way that makes it hard to quit the drug without having withdrawal symptoms. This is because when a user stops taking the drug, they may be unable to do so due to the change in the brain.
Alprazolam Side Effects On Kidney Function Over Time
Although Xanax is primarily metabolized by the liver, prolonged use can also affect kidney function, especially in individuals with preexisting kidney conditions [3]. The kidneys remove the byproducts of medications such as Xanax and this procedure puts pressure on the kidneys and may cause harm to the kidneys, including impaired kidney function over time. People with kidney disease should be cautious when taking Xanax and the doctors may have to reduce the dosage to protect the kidneys even further.
How Alprazolam Affects The Brain: Short-Term Vs. Long-Term Effects
Short-term use of alprazolam (Xanax) mainly involves increasing the effect of GABA which is a neurotransmitter that dials down the activity in the brain to promote calmness. This is helpful in the management of anxiety or panic disorders to help calm the person down instantly. Short-term side effects can include:
- Drowsiness
- Decreased mental alertness
- Slower reflexes
But, the use of Xanax in the long run has a much more severe impact on the brain. In the course of drug use, the brain can regulate its activity with the help of the drug and as a result, develops tolerance and dependence. In the long term, Xanax use can lead to:
- Memory problems
- Difficulty concentrating
- Emotional numbness
The relaxing effects that were useful in controlling anxiety may, in the long run, impair brain function and cognition.
Can Xanax Cause Memory Loss and Cognitive Decline
Xanax is known to cause memory loss and this is even so with the long-term users of the drug. The most common cognitive side effect is anterograde amnesia which means that the patient is unable to form new memories. This may make it difficult for people to remember what they have learned, which can impact tasks they perform at work or in their interpersonal relationships. Memory problems can begin as simple as forgetting things and if the device is used frequently, the problem may worsen. Side effects include; cognitive decline which is more common in older patients or those who have been on the drug for a long time.
Mental Health Risks: Depression, Anxiety, and Hallucinations
Although Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders, the drug can worsen anxiety when it wears off creating a cycle of dependency. Rarely, Xanax may also cause or worsen depression, since the drug’s anxiolytic action results in diminishing the ability to experience emotions [1]. Patients who have a history of using Xanax and suddenly decide to stop using the drug also develop rebound anxiety or panic attacks.
In severe situations, high dosages or long-time usage may cause hallucinations or even paranoid reactions but these are rare. People who have such symptoms should consult their doctor as soon as possible because such reactions indicate a severe side effect of the drug.
Strategies To Mitigate Xanax Side Effects
Several strategies can help manage or reduce the side effects of Xanax, especially when taken under medical supervision:
Lowering The Dosage: It is advisable to reduce the dose with the help of a doctor to reduce side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired thinking.
Timing Of Doses: It may be useful to take Xanax during the night to control excessive sleepiness during the day and allow the sedating effects of the drug to occur at night.
Dietary Adjustments: Some of the physical side effects include dry mouth or gastrointestinal problems and to prevent this one should ensure that he or she takes a lot of water and a balanced diet.
Regular Monitoring: Visiting a doctor at least once in a while can help identify the side effects when they are still mild and can be controlled.
Do Xanax Side Effects Go Away With Lower Doses
In many cases, reducing the dosage of Xanax can help to reduce some of the most frequent side effects. For instance, the dosage can be decreased to decrease drowsiness, fatigue, and dizziness, which assists people in performing their normal tasks. However, some adverse effects, such as emotional numbing or memory impairment, may endure even at low dosages of the drug and are likely to affect patients who have taken the substance for a long time.
It is advisable to always reduce the dosage with the help of a doctor to prevent withdrawal symptoms or a rebound of anxiety.
Alternatives To Xanax For Managing Anxiety
For those concerned about the side effects or potential for dependence on Xanax, there are several alternative treatments for managing anxiety:
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): Concerning typical long-term treatment, drugs such as Prozac (fluoxetine) or Zoloft (sertraline) can be used with lesser potential for dependence [2].
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This form of therapy assist in changing the thought processes and behaviours that lead to anxiety, thus offering permanent solution to anxiety without the use of drugs.
Lifestyle Changes: There are other ways on how to manage anxiety symptoms and these include; exercising, practicing mindfulness meditation, and having a healthy diet.
These alternatives provide means of controlling anxiety without having to use drugs such as Xanax which has many side effects when used for a long time.
1. Medical News Today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-xanax-side-effects
2. Mayo Clinic. Alprazolam (Oral Route). https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/alprazolam-oral-route/description/drg-20061040
3. Web MD. Xanax – Uses, Side Effects, and More. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-9824/xanax-oral/details
FAQs
Can You Take Xanax With Liver Disease?
Xanax is mainly broken down in the liver, and therefore people with liver problems should be careful. If you have liver disease like cirrhosis or hepatitis, then your body will take longer to eliminate Xanax and this means that the levels of the drug in your body will become high. This can lead to side effects such as drowsiness, confusion and poor coordination and balance. Physicians usually administer smaller doses for patients with liver disease or suggest other drugs that are less hard on the liver.
Can You Take Xanax On An Empty Stomach?
It is okay to take Xanax on an empty stomach but it may cause slight stomach upset in some people. Xanax is best taken when the stomach is empty and this means that it will take less time to show its effects of calming the body. But some people may want to take it with food to avoid the side effects such as nausea or indigestion. It is advisable to always follow the doctor’s prescription on how to use the drug in order to get the best results.
Does Xanax Make You Gain or Lose Weight?
Some of the side effects of Xanax include changes in weight. Some patients complain of weight gain because the drug has a sedative effect and may decrease the level of physical activity and enhance appetite. On the other hand, some people may lose weight because of loss of appetite or poor digestion resulting from the drug. These changes in weight are usually gradual but may progress with time in the course of using the drug.
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