Last Updated on August 25, 2022 by REVIVE Recovery and Detox Services
If you suffer from Anxiety or Panic Disorder, you’ve probably been prescribed Xanax bars at some stage of your treatment.
In the last few years it has also become a popular drug of choice on the streets.
But how safe is that Xanax High?
How Safe Are Xanax Bars That Xanax High ?
Xanax belongs to the Benzodiazepine class of medications and when taken as prescribed, produces a calming effect. Therefore, it is very effective for people suffering from anxiety, depression, or panic disorders. It increases the calming effect of Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) which is a neurotransmitter in the brain.
Xanax bars are known to be highly addictive as they work very quickly with GABA to bring about major changes in the brain’s activity and natural state.
Unfortunately, the same factors that make Xanax so effective in anxiety treatment also make it so susceptible to abuse.
According to the latest studies 4 in every 10 people who take Benzodiazepines for longer than six weeks, are, or will become, addicted. Xanax bars are not the only addictive drug, but they are one of the most commonly prescribed.
What’s the Difference Between Each Color of Xanax Bar?
Contrary to popular belief, there is no difference in strength between yellow Xanax bars and green Xanax bars. The only difference is in which color dye each manufacturer uses.
If the Xanax has been prescribed by a Doctor, the dosage will be 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, or 2mg and the Xanax bar will have markings on it. Due to the availability of Xanax bars on the street, there is an increased risk of purchasing fake Xanax bars.
In 2016, CBS news featured a story about nine people who were admitted to hospital, including one person who died, due to taking fake Xanax bars. These bars had been cut with fentanyl and caused heart attacks in three people.
What Are the Signs of Addiction to Xanax Bars?
Xanax has been linked to many fatal overdoses particularly among young people. If you’re concerned about your own use of Xanax bars, or that someone you know is abusing the drug, here are the signs you should look for:
- Agitation
- Hyperactivity
- Slurred speech
- Mania
- Tremors
- Heart palpitations
As the signs and symptoms in the above list can also occur with addiction to other drugs, and to many physical disorders, it’s important to get medical advice.
What Symptoms Can I Expect to Have When Withdrawing from Xanax Bars?
Withdrawal from any drug is not pleasant and the specific symptoms can vary from person to person. Physical symptoms may include:
- Sweating
- Stiff and sore muscles
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Headaches/Migraines
- Muscle spasms and tremors
- Heart Palpitations
Psychological symptoms may include:
- Insomnia
- Depression
- Anxiety and panic
- Irritability
- Isolating yourself from friends and family
- Sensitivity to noise
- Sensitivity to light
How Long Will My Withdrawal Symptoms Last?
Once again, this will vary from person to person depending on the length of their addiction, the dosage and other physical conditions.
As a rough guide, you can expect to experience insomnia and anxiety from between 6-12 hours of taking your last dose. Flu-like symptoms and increased anxiety and insomnia can last up to 4 days.
From the fourth day, withdrawal symptoms should gradually lessen but can continue for up to 14 days. After two weeks from your last dose, you can expect any lingering symptoms to be minor. However, you may also experience a return to your previous symptoms if you were using Xanax bars to treat anxiety, depression, or panic disorders.
It is vitally important that your withdrawal and detox be overseen by a medical professional or someone who is very familiar with the stages of withdrawal from Xanax bars.
