The Coleman Institute Blog

Xanax, also known as Alprazolam, is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States. It’s a fast-acting benzodiazepine that helps reduce symptoms of panic attacks and generalized anxiety. However, many people wonder - Can I get addicted to Xanax even if I’m taking it as prescribed for anxiety?

The answer is yes; Xanax carries a high risk for dependence and misuse, even when taken under a doctor’s supervision. Understanding how this medication works, its potential risks, and alternative anxiety treatments can help you make informed decisions about your health.

How Xanax Works for Anxiety

Xanax enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down brain activity; this produces a calming effect, reducing feelings of anxiety and panic. While this can provide short-term relief, Xanax does not treat the underlying causes of anxiety, and long-term use can lead to physical dependence.

Can You Get Addicted to Xanax?

Yes, Xanax has a high potential for addiction because of how it interacts with the brain’s reward system. Even when taken as prescribed, the body can develop a tolerance, meaning higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. These factors contribute to the high risk of dependence and addiction over time.

Risk Factors for Xanax Addiction -

• Duration of Use - The longer you take Xanax, the higher the likelihood of dependence.
• Dosage - Higher doses increase the risk of addiction.
• Personal History - A history of substance use disorder and/or mental health conditions may increase susceptibility.
• Frequency of Use - Taking Xanax regularly, even at a low dose, can lead to dependence.

Signs of Xanax Dependence & Addiction

If you are taking Xanax for anxiety, it’s important to recognize the warning signs of dependence and addiction, which can include -

• Feeling like you need Xanax to function daily
• Increasing your dosage without medical advice
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you miss a dose
• Craving Xanax or obsessively thinking about when you’ll take your next dose
• Neglecting responsibilities or relationships due to Xanax use

Safer Alternatives for Managing Anxiety

If you are concerned about Xanax dependence, there are safer long-term treatment options for managing anxiety, including -

• Therapy - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) are highly effective evidence-based approaches to anxiety.
• Non-Addictive Medications - Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are often recommended as first-line treatments for anxiety disorders.
• Lifestyle Changes - Regular exercise, meditation, breathing techniques, and improved sleep can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms.
• Herbal & Natural Remedies - Some people find relief through supplements like magnesium, ashwagandha, or L-theanine (consult your doctor before use).

What to Do If You’re Worried About Xanax Dependence

If you believe you may be developing a dependence on Xanax, the most important step is to talk to a medical professional. Quitting Xanax cold turkey can be dangerous due to the risk of withdrawal complications, such as seizures. A medically supervised detox is the safest way to discontinue benzodiazepines.

At The Coleman Institute, located in Richmond, Virginia, we offer a safe and effective Xanax detox program to help people overcome dependence. Our outpatient Rapid Benzo Detox Program provides medical oversight, comfort medications, and a personalized plan for long-term recovery.

Conclusion

While Xanax can sometimes be helpful in short-term treatment plans for anxiety, it also carries significant risks. If you or a loved one are struggling with Xanax use, know that help is available. Exploring alternative treatments to benzos and seeking professional guidance can lead to a healthier, more sustainable approach to managing anxiety and fostering long-term recovery.

For more information on our approach to Xanax Detoxification, visit our Rapid Benzo Detox Program webpage!

For those struggling with addiction, achieving and maintaining recovery can be challenging. Cravings and the risk of relapse often pose significant hurdles in sobriety, making it important to explore evidence-based treatment options. Naltrexone Therapy, including its extended-release form, Vivitrol, has become a powerful tool in preventing relapse and supporting wellness.

Understanding Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) is an evidence-based approach that combines FDA-approved medications with behavioral therapies to treat Substance Use Disorder (SUD). By alleviating withdrawal symptoms and reducing cravings, this approach helps individuals stay engaged in recovery while addressing the underlying psychological and behavioral aspects of addiction.

At The Coleman Institute, we specialize in MAT, offering Naltrexone Therapy as a safe and effective option for people recovering from opioid and alcohol use disorders. Unlike other MAT options, such as methadone or buprenorphine, Naltrexone is non-addictive. It does not produce physical dependence, making it a preferred choice for many seeking long-term recovery.

What is Naltrexone Therapy?

Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist that works by blocking opioid receptors in the brain; this prevents the euphoric, sedative effects of substances like heroin, fentanyl, and prescription opioids. For alcohol use disorder, Naltrexone reduces cravings and diminishes the pleasurable effects of drinking, supporting abstinence and long-term sobriety.

Key benefits of Naltrexone Therapy

• Relapse prevention by blocking the effects of opioids and reducing alcohol cravings
• No risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms
• Long-term support for individuals committed to recovery
• Flexible administration options, including oral Naltrexone, implants, and Vivitrol injections

To learn more about how The Coleman Institute uses Naltrexone Therapy for addiction recovery, visit our Naltrexone Therapy page.

Vivitrol - Extended-Release Naltrexone

Vivitrol is an extended-release injectable form of Naltrexone that provides one month of continuous medication with a single dose. This eliminates the need for daily medication adherence, reducing the risk of missed doses that could lead to relapse.

Key benefits of Vivitrol

• Long-lasting protection against cravings and relapse
• Convenience, only one injection per month
• No risk of dependence or withdrawal symptoms
• Effective for both opioid and alcohol use disorders
• Reduces the risk of overdose by blocking opioid effects

To start Vivitrol for opioid use disorder, you must complete detoxification from opioids to avoid precipitated withdrawal. For alcohol use disorder, Vivitrol can be initiated once alcohol detoxification is finished.

Integrating Naltrexone Therapy into Recovery

At The Coleman Institute, we incorporate Naltrexone Therapy into our treatment approach, which includes -

• Accelerated Outpatient Detox – A medically supervised outpatient detoxification program designed to help individuals detox safely and effectively in a shorter timeframe than traditional methods
• Naltrexone Therapy and Vivitrol Injections – Options for extended protection against relapse
• Medical Monitoring – Ongoing assessments to ensure safety and efficiency of treatment
• Compassionate Support – Case management and aftercare services to support lasting sobriety

How Naltrexone Therapy Works for Different Substance Use Disorders

Naltrexone Therapy is an effective treatment for both opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). By working on the brain’s reward system, Naltrexone helps individuals break the cycle of addiction and focus on rebuilding their lives.

• Opioid Use Disorder - Blocks the euphoric effects of opioids, reducing the incentive to use; Helps prevent relapse and provides long-term support for individuals in recovery.
• Alcohol Use Disorder - Reduces the pleasurable effects of alcohol consumption, decreases cravings, and supports abstinence; Helps individuals maintain sobriety and avoid relapse.

Is Naltrexone Therapy Right for You?

Naltrexone and Vivitrol are not one-size-fits-all treatments. They are best suited for individuals who -

• Have completed opioid detox or alcohol detox
• Are committed to long-term sobriety
• Do not have contraindications, such as severe liver disease
• Are looking for a non-addictive MAT option
• Want a long-term solution to prevent cravings and relapse

If you or a loved one is exploring treatment options for substance use disorders, Naltrexone Therapy may be a life-changing step toward lasting recovery.

Learn More About Naltrexone Therapy in Richmond, VA

Choosing the right treatment is an important step in the recovery process. If you’re considering Naltrexone Therapy or Vivitrol, our team at The Coleman Institute is here to help. The Coleman Institute has served the Richmond, Virginia, community since 1998, changing thousands of lives for the past quarter of a century.

Learn more about our approach to Naltrexone Therapy or contact us today to speak with a specialist about your treatment options.

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