Xanax Overdose Dangers and Treatment

Unfortunately, Xanax carries a potential for abuse and overdose. The CDC reported over 10,000 overdose deaths in 2022 alone that involved benzodiazepine medications like Xanax. If you utilize Xanax for medical purposes or know someone who does, learning how to prevent Xanax overdoses from occurring is crucial.

A popular medication used for treating anxiety disorders, Xanax is the brand name for the prescription medication alprazolam. Classified as a benzodiazepine, Xanax is commonly used for the short-term relief of anxiety and panic attacks.

Xanax enhances the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA inhibits nerve activity, which helps calm the brain and reduce anxiety, stress, and tension. This leads to its sedative and calming effects.

Side Effects of Xanax

While effective, Xanax can cause a range of side effects, including:

• Drowsiness or sedation
• Dizziness
• Impaired coordination
• Memory issues
• Potential for dependence or addiction with long-term use

Because of its potential for misuse and addiction, Xanax is typically prescribed for short periods. Withdrawal symptoms can occur if the drug is stopped abruptly after prolonged use, so it’s essential to follow a doctor’s instructions carefully.

What Causes Xanax Overdose?

A Xanax overdose can occur when someone takes more than the prescribed dose of alprazolam or combines it with other substances, especially alcohol, opioids, or other central nervous system depressants. Since Xanax is a sedative, an overdose can suppress brain activity to dangerous levels, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

Xanax is taken recreationally in settings where other substances are also being consumed. A lack of awareness of how much medication was taken can lead to an accidental overdose.

Additionally, tolerance can build up with prolonged Xanax use. Users may take higher doses to achieve the same effect, increasing overdose risk.

Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Overdose

The signs and symptoms of a Xanax overdose can vary in severity depending on the amount taken and whether it was combined with other substances, especially alcohol or opioids. Here are the most common signs and symptoms to watch for:

• Severe drowsiness or sedation
• Slurred speech
• Impaired coordination
• Muscle weakness
• Shallow or slowed breathing (respiratory depression)
• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
• Bluish tint to lips or skin
• Confusion or disorientation
• Severe lethargy
• Loss of consciousness
• Hallucinations or delirium
• Seizures

If you observe any of these signs, particularly severe respiratory depression, unresponsiveness, or loss of consciousness, it’s critical to call emergency services immediately.

What Do You Do if Someone Experiences a Xanax Overdose?

If you suspect someone has overdosed on Xanax, time is of the essence. An overdose can progress rapidly, leading to coma or death if not treated. Here are the steps you can take:

1. Call emergency services (911) immediately.
2. Stay with the person and try to keep them awake.
3. Perform rescue breathing if they stop breathing or their breathing becomes too shallow.
4. If the person is still breathing but unconscious, lay them on their side in the recovery position to prevent choking.
5. If available, administer naloxone (Narcan), especially if an opioid might be involved. Although Narcan does not reverse Xanax overdose directly, it can help if opioids are present.
6. Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed by a healthcare professional. Vomiting can make the situation worse or lead to choking if the person is unconscious.

When help arrives, tell them how much Xanax (or other substances) the person consumed and when they took the medication if you know this information. Also, share any symptoms you have observed, like loss of consciousness and shallow breathing.