Treatment for Xanax Addiction
Xanax, a powerful benzodiazepine that is prescribed for the treatment of anxiety associated with panic disorders and stress, carries a strong risk for physical dependence and addiction if it is taken for recreational purposes or when it is taken repeatedly for a sustained period of time. Like other benzodiazepines, Xanax can cause serious side effects for the user when he or she tries to quit making the need for treatment much more prominent than with many other types of drugs.
The American Family Physician reports that more Americans are now taking Xanax than ever before. As a result, many more treatment centers are seeing patients who are physically dependent on this and other type of prescription drugs. Fortunately, treatment centers have developed various options to assist patients in overcoming withdrawal, reducing the risk of relapse and sustaining sobriety long term.
Xanax Withdrawal
Treatment for Xanax addiction often begins with a safe, controlled, medical detox. Medical detox is recommended during Xanax addiction treatment because the symptoms of withdrawal can pose significant health risks for the individual. During treatment for withdrawal, steps will be taken to:
- Ensure patient safety
- Reduce the impact of health concerns associated with the discontinued use of the drug
- Taper the drug off slowly to further reduce the risk of complications
- Stabilize the patient
Inpatient Treatment
Many patients who submit to treatment for Xanax addiction will require the extensive support that is provided in a residential program. Inpatient treatment offers around-the-clock care, and medical intervention that can help to reduce the risks of further complications associated with the addiction while providing counseling and therapy that is conducive to recovery. During inpatient treatment, the individual will:
- Receive adequate counseling and therapy that instills a foundation for lifelong recovery.
- Receive peer support that helps to reduce relapse while building new, healthy relationships.
- Receiving housing and meals that are healthy.
- Live in the facility that is structured and goal oriented with a strong focus on recovery.
- Attend support groups, meetings and counseling sessions regularly.
Outpatient Treatment
When the addiction has been reduced to a more stable point in which the user can return home and adequate maintain his or her sobriety without consistent monitoring, outpatient treatment becomes the next step. During outpatient treatment for Xanax addiction the user will:
- Continue to attend regular counseling and therapy sessions.
- Continue to be screened for drug use.
- Continue to take part in support groups such as NA.
- Live at home and work towards achieving recovery goals outside of the treatment setting.