One of the greatest consequences of Xanax abuse is becoming addicted to the drug and having to experience withdrawal from the Xanax. One of the major difficulties with Xanax withdrawal is that it increases the initial symptoms the person was trying to suppress. The brain, which was sedated by the Xanax, begins to race creating even more anxiety. This, coupled with the anxiety produced by withdrawal can be extremely intense and difficult to cope with. It is well documented that the brain can actually go into seizure as it transitions from a period of medicated calm to one of hyperactivity, when the Xanax is discontinued.

Xanax, a medication that is available by prescription, can prove to be physically and emotionally addictive. Prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders, there is a tendency for people to abuse this medication. Once Xanax abuse begins, side effects begin to exhibit themselves. These side effects may be drowsiness, loss of concentration or slurred speech. After a period of time these symptoms may dissipate, even with increased use of the drug. The problem here is that with increased use, comes tolerance and with tolerance an addiction. At this point, the person is continually abusing the medication in the hope of experiencing that initial calming effect again. What they don't understand is that the initial feeling can never be recaptured and the only solution left is to detox from the Xanax.

The withdrawal from Xanax is extremely uncomfortable, but manageable. Some additional side effects from Xanax addiction are: muscle cramps, diarrhea, nausea, drowsiness, lack of coordination and loss of appetite. Always keep in mind that to abruptly discontinue Xanax can produce seizures, as well as, convulsions. These side effects can prove to be fatal, so only discontinue use while under medical supervision.

A medication that is available by prescription only, Xanax is a highly addictive medication that is prescribed to treat panic attacks, anxiety disorders or moderate to severe stress. Xanax, produces a calming effect on the brain by "slowing it down". Xanax, the brand name for alprazolam, slows down neurotransmitters called gamma-aminobutric acid. Individual's that suffer from anxiety disorders or panic attacks seem to have overactive neurotransmitters and by slowing them down it tends to relieve feelings of stress and impending doom.

Upon Xanax, one may experience drowsiness, loss of motor skills, loss of concentration or slurred speech. Generally, these symptoms dissipate after several days. Unfortunately, after experiencing the calming effect this medication can produce many people continue to seek even a greater feeling of calm. At that point people begin to associate Xanax with calm and begin to increase the amount of medication they take. With an increase in Xanax use and an ever increasing tolerance, negative consequences soon emerge. As with other prescription medications such as, Vicodin, Oxycontin or Codeine, when tolerance increases and prescriptions run out prematurely, the person must find additional Xanax. This is accomplished by scheduling appointments with more than one physician, forge prescriptions, visit multiple pharmacies or even steal the drug from other people. Basically, they will do whatever is necessary to avoid running out of the drug and experiencing the symptoms associated with withdrawal.

At some point in their Xanax addiction, the addict might be taking between 20 - 30 pills a day. Even before this point, it is extremely dangerous to discontinue Xanax use on your own. Discontinuing Xanax without medical supervision can produce seizures and convulsions, which can be life threatening.