Even a few minutes of low oxygen can result in long-term brain damage, impacting memory, cognitive health, and motor functions. Severe hypoxia can also cause permanent impairment or brain death in some cases. Calls to our general hotline may be answered by private treatment providers. We may be paid a fee for marketing or advertising by organizations that can assist with treating people with substance use disorders. A doctor may give adults flumazenil injections if they have overdosed on benzodiazepines. They can also give children aged 1–17 years flumazenil to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines after a surgical procedure.
The typical starting dosage of Xanax for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg three times per day. Addiction Resource does not offer medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. Only trained and licensed medical professionals can provide such services.
- For example, driving under the influence of Xanax and alcohol can be extremely hazardous and increases the risk of traffic accidents and serious injury.
- In cases of overdose, timely medical intervention can be life-saving, highlighting the significance of awareness.
- As a benzodiazepine, Xanax acts as a central nervous system depressant to calm the mind and simultaneously slow down physical responses in the body.
- You can contact Poison Control to get guidance on mitigating overdose symptoms while waiting for emergency first responders to arrive.
- If you or a loved one is in search of Xanax addiction treatment, give our helpline a call today to discuss enrollment at Bedrock.
Respiratory Depression
You’ll likely feel the effects of Xanax for several hours after each dose. Here are some tips for managing the effects mentioned in Xanax’s boxed warnings. Talyer Hackett is a medical writer and researcher with 10+ years of experience, holding B.A. Talk to the pharmacist for proper disposal of leftover or expired medication.
Alprazolam (Xanax)
However, when overdosed, these depressant effects become dangerous, resulting in several potentially life-threatening issues. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs.
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In fact, the majority of benzo-induced fatal overdoses came as a result of mixing Xanax with other substances. Xanax produces a calming effect that helps relieve symptoms of anxiety and panic disorder. For more details about how Xanax and opioids are alike and different, talk with your medical professional or pharmacist.
XANAX (alprazolam) is indicated to treat anxiety disorders and for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety. XANAX is also indicated to treat panic disorder with or without a fear of places and situations that might cause panic, helplessness, or embarrassment (agoraphobia). At Grady Clinic, we are dedicated to providing exceptional healthcare services across a wide range of specialties.
- It’s also important to mention any herbs, supplements, and vitamins you may use.
- Due to its life-threatening risks when combined with other substances, a Xanax overdose should only be treated in a medical setting.
- Disorientation is also expected and is accompanied by issues with focusing or thinking clearly.
- Both opioids and benzodiazepines can affect breathing because they act on GABA and mu receptors, which are receptors in the brain that control breathing.
Factors That Contribute To Xanax Overdose Risk
However, taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to dangerous and even deadly consequences. Though it’s never recommended to take more than the prescribed dose, Xanax is safer when taken alone. This is one of the reasons why the drug is not considered a medical narcotic. Also, taking too much of the drug on a regular basis can lead to tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and seizures.
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CNS depressants, digoxin, opioids, and CYP450 3A inhibitors can all interact with Xanax and cause unintentional overdose. Doctors warn that mixing benzodiazepines and opioids, alcohol, or other CNS depressants can cause drowsiness, breathing problems, coma, or even death. People who experience difficulty breathing after taking too much Xanax have likely taken the drug with other central nervous system (CNS) depressants or alcohol. Respiratory difficulties are uncommon in isolated Xanax overdoses.
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3 Dependence
People should inform their doctor about their alcohol consumption habits before using Xanax. “Research suggests benzodiazepine use is high while use disorder rates are low.” October 18, 2018. We specialize in compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking help for can you overdose on xanax yourself or a loved one, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Talk to your doctor about drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.
The federal government regulates controlled substances because taking them may lead some people to misuse the drugs. If you have anxiety, your medical professional may recommend that you take a prescription drug called Xanax. The Clinical Affairs Team at MentalHealth.com is a dedicated group of medical professionals with diverse and extensive clinical experience.