Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms and Timeline

Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms

What Is Xanax?

Xanax, a brand name of alprazolam, belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines.

Benzodiazepines like Xanax are central nervous system (CNS) depressants that produce a sedative or calming effect when taken. Xanax itself is a short-acting benzodiazepine that is primarily used to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder in adults.

Although effective in treating anxiety, Xanax and other benzodiazepines have the potential for misuse. Substance use disorder (SUD) and/or addiction can develop with this misuse, or when combined with other substances, such as alcohol and opioids.

What Happens When You Withdraw From Alprazolam?

When you withdraw from Alprazolam, you will experience physical and psychological symptoms that can last anywhere between a few days and a few weeks or more. 

Withdrawal typically begins within 24 hours of the last dose taken. The range and severity of these withdrawal symptoms will depend on dosage and how long the drug was taken.

There are two phases of withdrawal, acute and protracted. Acute withdrawal can last anywhere between 5 and 28 days after last use, while protracted withdrawal can last up to a year or more. Not everyone will experience protracted withdrawal. Symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, and mood swings may linger in what is known as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can last for weeks to months to even longer in severe cases.

What Are the Side Effects of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal?

The side effects of benzodiazepine withdrawal can be psychological and/or physical and range in severity from moderate to severe. In general, some common side effects related to benzodiazepine withdrawal can include: 

• Tremors
• Sweating
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Panic attacks

In some cases, prolonged benzodiazepine use can cause symptom rebound or a rebound effect after use has stopped. This is when a symptom that a person was treating with medication reoccurs after use stops.

Xanax is used to control anxiety and panic disorders, and a sudden stop of its use can intensify these symptoms, known as rebound anxiety, once the medicine wears off. Common symptoms of rebound anxiety can include increased nervousness, restlessness, and panic attacks.

What Are the Most Common Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms?

Common Xanax withdrawal symptoms can include: 

• Anxiety
• Panic attacks
• Cravings 
• Hyperventilation
• Heart palpitations 
• Diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues
• Sleep problems/insomnia 
• Muscle spasms/tremors/shaking 
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Sweating
• Muscle pain
• General discomfort
• Hypersensitivity to light, sound, or touch
• Abnormal sensations
• The sensation of being detached from your body

In severe cases, Xanax withdrawal symptoms can also include seizures, disorientation, confusion, psychosis (including hallucinations, delirium, and delusions), and suicidal ideation. If someone experiences these symptoms or becomes unresponsive during withdrawal, call 911 immediately.

Causes of Xanax Withdrawal

Why Does Xanax Withdrawal Happen?

Over time, regular Xanax use or misuse can result in physical dependence, where the brain and nervous system become dependent on Xanax to function normally. 

When use is suddenly stopped, the brain’s chemistry, which has become adapted to the presence of the drug, becomes unbalanced. This leads to unpleasant and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms, such as sweating, anxiety, and seizures.

Why Is Xanax Withdrawal So Dangerous

Xanax withdrawal is so dangerous because of its potency and effect on the brain. 

Benzodiazepines, including Xanax, are central nervous system (CNS) depressants that work by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain that calms the nervous system by blocking specific signals in your central nervous system. 

This reduces nerve cell hyperactivity associated with fear, stress, and anxiety. Regular use causes the brain to adapt by reducing natural GABA production and relying on medication to create this calming effect. 

When a person suddenly stops using Xanax, the brain will suddenly have less GABA than it’s used to. Low levels of GABA are linked to seizures, which is what makes withdrawal from benzodiazepines dangerous. Long-term use and/or misuse can also result in dangerous psychological symptoms, such as psychosis or confusion, which can put one at serious risk for injury or death.

Who Is Most at Risk for Severe Xanax Withdrawal?

Individuals with a history of substance use disorder, especially those who have misused alcohol or opioids in the past, are at the highest risk for severe Xanax withdrawal. 

Additionally, taking Xanax for an extended period of time, or at a high dose, may also result in more intense withdrawal symptoms when ceasing use.

Xanax Withdrawal Timeline

How Long Do Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms Last?

Xanax withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere between 1-7 days for acute withdrawal and weeks to months for prolonged withdrawal. 

How long withdrawal symptoms will last exactly depends on the individual and their health, dosage, and duration of use.

What’s the Hardest Day of Withdrawal?

Symptoms of Xanax withdrawal are typically most intense within the first four days.

After this acute phase, physical symptoms will begin to ease and improve, but psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, can persist for much longer.

How Long Does Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) Last?

Post-acute withdrawal syndrome can last anywhere between a few months and up to two years.

How long a person may struggle with PAWS depends on various factors, such as the substance used and their overall health.

Severe Xanax Withdrawal Complications

Can Xanax Withdrawal Cause Seizures?

Yes, Xanax withdrawal can cause seizures.

Individuals who suddenly stop using Xanax after having been using it for a long time or at high doses are most at risk for seizures.

Can Xanax Withdrawal Cause Hallucinations or Psychosis?

Yes, Xanax withdrawal can cause hallucinations or psychosis.

Stopping Xanax use abruptly after long-term or high-dose use can put one at risk for psychosis, including hallucinations, delirium, and delusions.

When Should You Seek Emergency Medical Care During Xanax Withdrawal?

You should seek immediate emergency medical care if during Xanax withdrawal, someone experiences:

• Sezirues
• Disorientation
• Confusion
• Psychosis (including hallucinations, delirium, and delusions)
• Suicidal ideation
• Extreme anxiety 
• Being unable to function due to symptoms like severe nausua/vomitting
• Unresponsiveness 

Xanax withdrawal without medical supervision can be dangerous and lead to death. If the above symptoms are present, call 911 immediately.

Medical Detox for Xanax Withdrawal

Does Xanax Need to Be Tapered Off?

Yes, Xanax should always be tapered off rather than stopped abruptly to prevent severe withdrawal symptoms. 

A healthcare professional will be able to create a safe tapering schedule, which will allow you to taper off Xanax safely. Never stop taking Xanax suddenly or ‘cold turkey’ without first consulting a healthcare professional.

What Is Given for Xanax Withdrawal?

Xanax withdrawal can be managed with a gradual taper using long-acting benzodiazepines, such as diazepam(Valium) and clonazepam(Klonopin).

Depending on the withdrawal symptoms experienced, other medications may be used. Commonly used medications include anticonvulsants to reduce seizure risk, beta blockers to address symptoms such as rapid heart rate and hand tremors, and antidepressants to address and manage persistent mood symptoms.

Why Is Medical Supervision Important During Xanax Withdrawal?

Medical supervision is crucial during Xanax withdrawal because it allows medical professionals to manage potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures and severe anxiety. 

Having this level of oversight ensures that any complications can be addressed immediately for optimal safety and comfort for the individual undergoing detox. For this reason, it’s always recommended that individuals choose medically supervised detox when they wish to cease using benzodiazepines like Xanax.

How to Manage Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms

How Can You Cope With Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms?

The best way to cope with Xanax withdrawal symptoms is to taper off the medication gradually under medical supervision.

Therapy, exercise, mindfulness, a good diet, and support from healthcare professionals can all aid in managing withdrawal symptoms.

What Helps With Rebound Anxiety During Withdrawal?

Medication-assisted treatment and specialized therapies that address anxiety, such as CBT, can greatly help with rebound anxiety. 

Some medications, such as antidepressants, can help manage or reduce anxious symptoms during withdrawal. CBT and other therapies can be used to help establish healthy coping strategies to manage anxiety. Additionally, having a structured relapse prevention plan in place can reduce future anxiety and set up a support plan for recovery post-treatment.

How Can You Manage Insomnia During Xanax Withdrawal?

Consulting a healthcare professional can determine if medication will be useful in helping manage insomnia during Xanax withdrawal.

Alternatively, anyone can practice good sleep hygiene, which helps prepare the brain and body for bed by creating a consistent sleep schedule. Keeping the bedroom cool and dark while avoiding caffeine and screens before bedtime may also help improve sleep quality during detox.

Treatment and Recovery After Xanax Withdrawal

How Is Xanax Addiction Treated After Detox?

Once detox is completed, clients may then transition into an appropriate treatment program for further support. 

What treatment program this will be will depend on the individual’s needs and personal goals. Treatment facilities like Infinite Recovery feature many treatment programs with step-down options, which allow clients to continue with treatment with minimal interruptions.

For those with a severe Xanax addiction with a high risk of relapse, inpatient rehab or partial hospitalization may be appropriate. Outpatient programs are best suited for clients who are ready to transition back into normal life, but require additional support and treatment.

What therapies are used will also depend on each individual’s personalized treatment program. Therapies such as CBT are commonly used, as well as family therapy and relapse prevention. The goal of addiction treatment is to identify the source of the addiction, address it, and teach healthy coping skills. Infinite Recovery takes this further by providing aftercare services, such as sober living and alumni programs.

What Role Do Support Groups Play in Recovery?

Support groups aid recovery by providing a community of peers where individuals can share experiences, gain emotional support, take accountability, and learn coping strategies from others facing similar challenges. 

This reduces feelings of isolation and fosters a sense of belonging, which helps individuals remain committed to their recovery journey.

How Can You Prevent Relapse After Xanax Withdrawal?

You can reduce the risk of relapse after Xanax withdrawal by:

• Engaging in ongoing therapy, treatment, and other professional assistance
• Making use of support and alumni groups
• Addressing underlying mental health issues
• Establishing healthy coping strategies 
• Maintaining a strong support network
• Practicing healthy habits, such as eating well, exercising, and getting good sleep
• Avoiding triggers or environments associated with Xanax use 
• Creating a safe and sober living space
• Developing a relapse prevention plan and contingency plans in case of an emergency, such as encountering a trigger, experiencing strong cravings, or if a relapse occurs. 

It’s important to remember that a relapse can happen to anyone and is not a mark of failure. Should a relapse occur, seek professional help immediately.

Alternatives to Xanax for Anxiety

What Calms You Down Like Xanax?

There are a few drug alternatives to Xanax that can be used to treat anxiety, which can include antidepressants and other benzodiazepines, such as diazepam (Valium) and clonazepam (Klonopin).

Choosing the right medications for you requires the help of a medical professional, and not all medications will be appropriate. Alternatively, non-medical approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy, meditation, and exercise can all help reduce anxiety and lessen the need for medication.

What Are Effective Treatments for Anxiety Without Xanax?

Effective treatments for anxiety without Xanax can include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), buspirone, and antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). 

Lifestyle changes can also be effective in managing anxiety. Practicing mindfulness techniques, engaging in regular exercise, and reducing exposure to anxiety triggers, such as caffeine, can also be helpful alongside professional treatment.

Can Therapy Help Manage Anxiety Disorders Without Benzodiazepines?

Yes, therapy can be effective in helping manage anxiety disorders without the use of benzodiazepines. 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is especially effective and considered a first-line treatment. Other therapies, such as exposure therapy and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), can also become part of an anxiety disorder treatment plan. 

Xanax and Alcohol Withdrawal

Does Xanax Help With Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms?

Xanax can help alleviate some symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, such as anxiety and agitation. 

However, Xanax is typically used only for short-term relief, and under medical supervision, due to the risks associated with its use.

Can You Take Xanax While Detoxing From Alcohol?

Xanax can be used short-term during alcohol detox, but it should only ever be used under medical supervision due to the risk of misuse and dependency. 

A medical professional will best be able to determine if Xanax will be helpful during alcohol detox, as it’s not appropriate for every individual.

What Are the Risks of Mixing Xanax and Alcohol?

Mixing Xanax and alcohol can come with dangerous risks, such as:

• Slowed breathing and heart rate 
• Enhanced sedation, leading to extreme drowsiness, dizziness, or uncoordinated movement
• Memory problems and/or blackouts
• Behavioral problems
• Increased risk of accidents/falls 
• Fatal overdose 

Both substances are central nervous system depressants that amplify each other’s effects, and as such can be extremely dangerous and result in long-term health damage or even death.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Xanax Withdrawal Be Fatal?

Yes, Xanax withdrawal can be fatal, especially if it is done abruptly without medical supervision. 

Suddenly stopping use of Xanax and other benzodiazepines can cause serious, life-threatening complications, such as seizures, psychosis, and suicidal ideation. Never suddenly stop taking a benzodiazepine without first consulting a medical professional.

Can Xanax Withdrawal Cause Depression?

Yes, Xanax withdrawal can cause depression or worsen already existing depression. 

Xanax withdrawal can also cause other psychological symptoms, such as mood swings, anxiety, and, in severe cases, suicidal ideation. These mood symptoms can persist for several days, to even weeks.

Can Xanax Withdrawal Cause Panic Attacks?

Yes, Xanax withdrawal can cause panic attacks as a withdrawal symptom, as well as cause/increase anxiety overall. 

Can You Detox From Xanax at Home?

No, it is not safe to detox from Xanax at home.

Stopping use of Xanax and other benzodiazepines without medical supervision carries a genuine risk of seizures and death. A medically supervised detox facility is the safest place to detox from Xanax, as medical personnel are available to assist quickly in case of a medical emergency.

How Long Does Xanax Stay in Your System?

Xanax has an average half-life of 11-12 hours in a healthy adult, and typically fully metabolizes and leaves the body within a day or two. 

Factors such as dosage, body weight, age, whether it’s taken with other medications, personal metabolism, and more can all influence how long it takes for Xanax to fully leave your system. A half-life refers to the time it takes for the body to eliminate half the drug from your bloodstream.

Xanax is a commonly used medication that can lead to dependence and/or addiction despite being taken as directed. When misused, Xanax can lead to withdrawal symptoms that can be life-threatening. That’s why Infinite Recovery in Austin, Texas, provides medical detox services as the first step in addiction treatment. To get started, call today.