As with other benzodiazepines, Xanax comes with the risk of use and addiction. In fact, this drug is among the most frequently used prescription substances throughout the nation. People who use Xanax are at an increased risk of experiencing the negative side effects of this drug.
One common side effect that people may experience when taking Xanax is a “Xanax hangover.” This side effect most commonly happens to individuals who use the drug; however, even individuals who take Xanax as prescribed may experience this.
A Xanax hangover is when a person experiences mild withdrawal symptoms as the drug wears off. Read on to learn more about the symptoms of a Xanax hangover and how to prevent this side effect from occurring.
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Symptoms Of A Xanax Hangover
Symptoms of a Xanax hangover often resemble that of an alcohol hangover. While not typically dangerous, these symptoms can be very uncomfortable. The effects of a Xanax hangover can be both physical as well as mental.
Common symptoms of a Xanax hangover include:
- insomnia
- headache
- trouble breathing
- increased pulse and blood pressure
- blurry vision
- headache
- nausea and upset stomach
- muscle aches and tremors
- lowered appetite
- trouble concentrating
- increased anxiety
- depression
- problems with memory
Some people may experience a Xanax hangover even when they are taking the medication as prescribed. The hangover effects are most likely to occur as the body adjusts to the medication. If symptoms persist, adjusting the dose may be necessary.
People who use this drug are at an increased risk of a Xanax hangover. Taking larger doses of the drug at once or abusing the drug and then suddenly stopping it can result in hangover-like symptoms.
How Long Does A Xanax Hangover Last?
Xanax has a half-life of between six and 27 hours. This is how long it takes for half of the drug to leave the body. While it will take longer for the entire drug to exit a person’s system, people typically only experience symptoms for up to 24 hours after the last dose is taken.
Minimizing Symptoms Of A Xanax Hangover
Symptoms of a Xanax hangover should subside once the drug is completely out of the system. However, there are certain things you can do that may minimize the effects of a Xanax hangover.
The following may help curb some of the symptoms of a Xanax hangover:
- Exercise — Exercising can help to boost blood flow and release natural endorphins, all of which will help a person feel better.
- Sleep — Sleeping through the symptoms of a Xanax hangover can help minimize the effects of the drug during waking hours.
- Eating — Eating foods that have fiber, protein, and fat can help move the drug through the system and out of the body faster.
Additionally, learning stress reduction techniques can help reduce the need for larger doses of Xanax. Taking a lower dose of Xanax can minimize the potential for a Xanax hangover.
How To Prevent A Xanax Hangover
The best way to prevent a Xanax hangover is to slowly get the body used to the drug. This may mean starting on a lower dose and very slowly increasing it until the desired dose is reached.
Additional steps that can be taken to prevent a Xanax hangover include:
- Using Xanax Only As Prescribed — Taking only the prescribed dose of Xanax is the best way to prevent a hangover. Using more of the drug or taking it more frequently will increase the risk of Xanax hangover symptoms.
- Get Enough Sleep — Getting adequate sleep is important, especially when starting a new medication like Xanax. Being well rested can help prevent erratic emotional reactions and better equip someone to deal with a Xanax hangover.
- Reduce Caffeine Intake — Consuming caffeine can increase a person’s anxiety levels, leading him or her to take more Xanax to combat the anxiety. This can lead to a counterproductive cycle of Xanax use and increase the risk of a Xanax hangover.
Treatment For Xanax Use And Addiction
Xanax is a highly addictive substance, and many people need formal treatment to successfully overcome alprazolam addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with Xanax addiction, there are several treatment options to consider to get the help you need and deserve.
Many people begin their journey in recovery with a medically supervised detox program. Detox programs help individuals safely and effectively quit Xanax. A detox program will likely provide any needed medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and provide round-the-clock support.
Once a detox program is completed, patients will likely transfer to an inpatient treatment program. Inpatient treatment offers intensive and customized programs of recovery for people addicted to benzodiazepines like Xanax.
To learn more about the symptoms and prevention of a Xanax hangover, contact a treatment specialist today.
