Available by prescription only, Xanax is a short acting benzodiazepine that is indicated in the treatment anxiety disorders as well as panic attacks. Anxiety associated with moderate to severe depression is also successfully treated with Xanax in many cases. Interestingly, panic attacks were the first approved indication for a prescription for Xanax, though the potential uses have expanded. Also, it was the first medication that was meant just to treat panic disorder. The uses for Xanax continue to expand today, as well..
Within a week of taking Xanax, most patients find that their symptoms are controlled. Unfortunately, Xanax is commonly misused because it begins to take effect so quickly, so this is a double edged sword for many patients. The good news is that most patients will not develop a full blown addiction to the problem but in rare cases it is possible to develop a physical dependency on the medication.
Withdrawal and rebound symptoms can occur if Xanax is taking for long periods of time and not tapered with the help of a doctor. Withdrawal symptoms may include anxiety, panic, or depression if the medication is stopped too quickly. Instead of simply stopping, patients need to taper the dosage gradually. Withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, dysphoria, stomach pain, muscle cramping, vomiting, anxiety, depression, tremors, sweating, and even suicidal ideation.
As is the case with most medications today, Xanax may be accompanied by some unintentional side effects. Some of the more common complaints include but are not limited to hives, fatigued, loss of coordination, rashes, suicidal ideation, hallucinations, ataxia, short term memory loss, and more. Most patient’s find that the symptoms subside on their own, and those that linger are usually not bothersome enough to discontinue taking Xanax as prescribed. Patients and doctors should work together to determine if Xanax continues to be the right treatment for their needs. buy Xanax