Shannah asked
Is Xanax bad long term?
Answer
Xanax (alprazolam) is classified as a benzodiazepine and is used for a wide variety of indications including anxiety, sleep and muscle spasms. Long term use of Xanax is associated with certain risks and safety concerns. Below, we discuss the safety of Xanax use over the long term.
Is Xanax Safe Long Term?
Benzodiazepines, while effective, are associated with risks, both short term and long term. Short term risks include:
- Over-sedation
- Confusion
- Increased risk of falls
Benzodiazepines such as Xanax also have their share of dangerous drug interactions. There is the potential for serious or even fatal interactions when combined with certain classes of medication such as opioids.
In regard to long term safety risks, two of the main issues of tolerance and dependence.
Tolerance
The effects of Xanax tend to decrease when taken consistently over time, requiring the need for higher doses to have therapeutic effect. Higher doses can lead to increased side effects and make it more difficult to discontinue the medication.
Dependence
Xanax and other benzodiazepines can be very difficult to discontinue without experiencing withdrawal symptoms and many individuals don’t feel well when stopping their medication. The risk of dependence is increased if you have been taking high doses of Xanax or have been taking it for an extended period of time.
Xanax is particularly associated with difficult withdrawal effects due to its short duration of action. Potential withdrawal effects include:
- Sweating
- Tachycardia
- Muscle cramps
- Tremors
- Anxiety
- Nausea
- Seizures (rare)
- Agitation
There are a variety of methods to safely reduce or discontinue your dose of Xanax and it is important to speak with your doctor regarding the best way to do this in your situation.
One source recommends the following taper for Xanax to discontinue safely:
- Decrease by no more than 0.5 mg every three days. In those taking high doses, it may be more appropriate to decrease by 0.5 mg every 2 to 3 weeks to prevent withdrawal symptoms from occurring.
Summary
Xanax, as with all benzodiazepines, are associated with certain risks. These risks include:
- Sedative & confusion side effects
- Dangerous drug interactions
- Risk of tolerance
- Risk of dependence
It is important to take Xanax exactly as prescribed and speak with your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects. In addition, it is prudent to be cautious when discontinuing the medication.
