Dangers of Snorting Xanax

The Risk & Dangers of Snorting Xanax Should Not Be Ignored

Xanax is a widely prescribed sedative used primarily for treating anxiety disorder. When used for a short period, Xanax can provide fast relief of anxiety symptoms by inducing a deep sense of relaxation.

Because of its swift calming effects, Xanax is often misused. Some may use the drug for a much longer duration than is safe, setting themselves up to become dependent. Others may abuse the Xanax recreationally, such as by crushing the pills and snorting the drug.

When Xanax is snorted there is an enhanced risk of overdose, as well as causing damage to the nasal passage and lungs. Keep reading to learn more about the dangers of snorting Xanax.

Xanax Abuse

Xanax (alprazolam) is a central nervous system depressant that is often prescribed for anxiety and panic disorder. This fast-acting drug can provide relief from tension, nervousness, and anxiety symptoms. Xanax is also used for other issues, such as seizures, muscle spasms, and insomnia.

Xanax works by increasing GABA levels in the brain, which helps to control excitability. By boosting the release of the GABA in the nervous system, the sedating effects will follow.

It doesn’t take long for a Xanax habit to take hold. Like all benzos, in as little time as two weeks, someone taking Xanax daily can become dependent on the drug. Once this occurs, you begin to notice withdrawal symptoms when the drug wears off. This effect prompts you to take another dose.

As tolerance to the effects of Xanax increases, there may be a desire to enhance the effect of the drug. This can be done by taking higher doses or by snorting the Xanax. It isn’t long before addiction sets in.

Effects of Xanax Misuse

Because Xanax is not meant for long-term use, this drug is prone to misuse. Xanax addiction begins to show up as certain signs and symptoms emerge. Early warning signs might include:

• Poor memory.
• Feeling confused.
• Lack of coordination.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Slurring words or having trouble speaking.
• Physical weakness.
• Difficulty making decisions.
• Symptoms of depression.

The threat of overdose comes into play, not only when snorting Xanax, but also when mixing Xanax with other drugs. Common poly-drug combinations that involve Xanax include:

• Xanax with cocaine. This helps reduce the jitters associated with cocaine, a stimulant.
• Xanax and alcohol. This will enhance the sedative effect of each of these substances.
• Xanax and opiates. This also enhances the effect of each of the drugs.

What Happens When You Snort Xanax?

People seeking a more intense Xanax high may be to crush and then snort the drug. This is done in order to speed up and heighten the effects of the Xanax. There are several risks involved in using Xanax in this way, not the least of which is overdose. There are short-term and long-term effects of snorting Xanax. The dangers of snorting Xanax include:

• Nasal airway blockage.
• Loss of smell.
• Frequent sniffing.
• Runny nose.
• Nasal inflammation.
• Infection of the nasal passage.
• Respiratory tract blockage.
• Damage to the nasal cavity lining.
• Lung damage.
• Overdose

The reality is that snorting Xanax does not result in a faster route to the brain, as it does for cocaine or heroin. This is because Xanax is not water soluble.

The Effects of Snorting Xanax and Addiction

Xanax addiction can happen fairly quickly. This happens as the brain pathways are altered and the reward system prompts ongoing use of the drug.

There are some common signs that point to addiction. These signs might include:

• Taking higher doses more often.
• Buying the Xanax online or by doctor shopping to get more scripts.
• You begin to believe you cannot get through the day without the Xanax.
• You obsess about having enough Xanax on hand; look forward to taking the drug.
• Begin to withdraw socially.
• You try to stop the Xanax but can’t.
• Have withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped.

When You Need Help with Xanax Dependency or Addiction

Breaking free from Xanax begins with detox and withdrawal. With the benzo class of drugs, it is crucial to have expert guidance during the detox process. The detox team will plan a taper of the drug, which allows your body to slowly adjust to ever lower doses.

Withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Stomach cramps.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Muscle cramps.
• Fever
• Jerky movements.
• Hallucinations
• Panic attacks.
• Headache
• Heart palpitations.
• Increased heart rate.
• Increased breathing rate.
• High blood pressure.
• Shaking hands.
• Sweating
• Confused thinking.
• Insomnia
• Grand mal seizures.

After detox is completed, you will begin the treatment process. This entails a varied mix of therapies and activities that each help you to break the addiction cycle. Treatment may last from 30 days to 6 months, which depends on how severe the Xanax problem is.

Treatment for Xanax addiction includes:

• One-on-one talk therapy. Using evidence-based therapies, a therapist will guide you through the process of changing your thought patterns. This involves noting the self-defeating thoughts and attitudes that keep you trapped in the Xanax abuse.
• Peer group sessions. The small group meetings allow you a chance to discuss topics relating to recovery. These sessions encourage members to open up and share with each other, and can be a great source of support.
• Recovery skills training. New coping techniques are taught and practiced. These can enhance relating skills, problem solving, and emotion management. Also, you will create a detailed relapse prevention plan while in treatment. This gives you a concrete plan for dealing with triggers as they occur.
• 12-step groups. Recovery meetings, such as A.A., N.A., or SMART Recovery provide a source of social support in treatment and recovery.
• Holistic therapy. The mind-body connection is a central focus of Xanax recovery. Activities that help you learn to relax, like yoga, art therapy, and mindfulness, can help restore balance. Outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, beach walks, or visits to the gym are also part of the program.

If you find yourself crushing and snorting Xanax to achieve a more intense high, you are putting your life at risk. A treatment program can help you break the grip of Xanax.

Capo by the Sea Provides Treatment for Xanax Addiction

Capo by the Sea is a luxury drug rehab that provides comprehensive treatment for Xanax addiction. Our team of highly trained addiction experts can help you or a loved one overcome a Xanax use disorder.