Addiction Risks and Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax and Other Medications

Q: Addiction Risks and Withdrawal Symptoms of Xanax and Other Medications

Hello： The medication you mentioned, Xanax, has a higher potential for addiction, but it is more effective in controlling autonomic nervous symptoms or anxiety. <br>In my opinion, the issue of addiction can be gradually managed by tapering the dosage as symptoms improve. <br>We s

I'm sorry, could you please ask again?

I apologize for asking again: Currently, the doctor has prescribed Xanax 0.5 mg and Effexor 37.5 mg, half a tablet three times a day, Dogmatyl 50 mg, and Rivotril 0.5 mg, one tablet at bedtime.
I would like to know if taking these medications for a period of time could lead to addiction.
If the condition improves and I want to discontinue the medication, will there be any issues, especially with Xanax, which I am particularly concerned about?
My husband had cervical spine surgery a month ago and was diagnosed with autonomic nervous system disorder by a neurologist, who prescribed Inderal and Xanax, one tablet three times a day.
The doctor did not inform him about the risks of stopping the medication.
After the surgery, he couldn't sleep for three days, and combined with stopping the medication, he became completely overwhelmed, anxious, and had racing thoughts.
We quickly gave him Xanax, one tablet in the morning and one at night, which stabilized his condition.
After discharge, he gradually reduced it to one tablet a day (half a tablet in the morning and half at night) over two and a half months.
Recently, he has been experiencing more physical issues, and despite seeing many doctors, he hasn't improved.
Three days ago, he visited a psychiatrist, and now I am questioning whether his various physical discomforts after discharge (pain in the shoulder blade, hemorrhoid pain, painful urination - with normal blood and urine tests, gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating - with a normal colonoscopy, and poor appetite) are related to discontinuing Xanax and Inderal.

A-Xia, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/18

Dr. Lin Yanhong reply Psychiatry

Hello: The medication you mentioned, Xanax, has a higher potential for addiction, but it is more effective in controlling autonomic nervous symptoms or anxiety.
In my opinion, the issue of addiction can be gradually managed by tapering the dosage as symptoms improve.
We should not let fear of addiction prevent necessary treatment.
Depression and lack of confidence are the psychological factors that hinder your husband's recovery.
The pain in the scapula, hemorrhoids, urinary pain, gastrointestinal discomfort and bloating, and poor appetite, although frequently checked, may not be entirely related to the discontinuation of Xanax and Inderal, but the likelihood is low.
The key point is that depression needs to be treated properly; medications should not be avoided due to fear of side effects or addiction.
By cooperating well with the physician, there will be a day when things improve.
Dr.
Lin

Reply Date: 2003/07/18

More Info

Xanax (alprazolam) is a medication commonly prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are effective in reducing anxiety but also carry risks of dependence and withdrawal symptoms, especially when used over an extended period or at higher doses.

Addiction Risks
The potential for addiction to Xanax is significant, particularly for individuals who may have a history of substance use disorders or those who are prescribed higher doses. When taken as directed for short-term use, the risk of developing a dependency is lower. However, long-term use can lead to both psychological and physical dependence. This means that the body may become accustomed to the drug, leading to tolerance (requiring higher doses to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms when the medication is reduced or stopped.

Withdrawal symptoms from Xanax can be severe and may include anxiety, insomnia, irritability, tremors, and in some cases, seizures. This is why it is crucial to follow a physician's guidance when discontinuing the medication. A gradual tapering off, rather than an abrupt cessation, is often recommended to minimize withdrawal effects.

Other Medications
You mentioned taking other medications, including Efexor (venlafaxine), Dogmatyl (sulpiride), and Rivotril (clonazepam). Each of these medications has its own profile regarding addiction and withdrawal risks:
1. Efexor (Venlafaxine): This is an antidepressant that can also be used for anxiety. While it is not a benzodiazepine, it can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, including dizziness, nausea, and mood swings.

2. Dogmatyl (Sulpiride): This is an antipsychotic that is sometimes used for anxiety and depression. It generally has a lower risk of dependence compared to benzodiazepines, but any medication can cause side effects or withdrawal symptoms if discontinued abruptly.

3. Rivotril (Clonazepam): Similar to Xanax, Rivotril is a benzodiazepine and carries similar risks of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

Managing Discontinuation
Given your concerns about your husband’s experience with Xanax and Inderal (propranolol), it’s essential to approach the discontinuation of these medications carefully. If he experienced significant anxiety and distress after stopping Xanax, it may indicate that his body was reacting to withdrawal. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can create a tailored tapering schedule to help manage withdrawal symptoms effectively.

Conclusion
In summary, while Xanax and other medications you mentioned can be effective for managing anxiety and related symptoms, they do carry risks of addiction and withdrawal. It is crucial to work closely with healthcare providers to monitor the use of these medications and to develop a safe plan for discontinuation if needed. If you or your husband are experiencing ongoing physical symptoms, it is also important to discuss these with a healthcare professional, as they may be related to medication changes or other underlying issues. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare team to ensure safe and effective treatment.

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