The Dangers of Quitting Xanax Cold Turkey

Going cold turkey means quitting the misuse of drugs or alcohol abruptly with no weaning period and no professional assistance. Many people assume they can stop using a drug just as easily as they began taking it. This is rarely the case when benzodiazepines like Xanax are concerned. Few people who misuse benzodiazepines are aware of how dangerous abruptly stopping Xanax can be.

The Risks of Xanax Misuse

Xanax, while effective for managing anxiety and panic disorders when used as prescribed, carries a significant risk of misuse. Taking higher doses than prescribed, using it without a prescription, or combining it with other substances can rapidly lead to dependence and addiction. The brain adapts to the presence of Xanax, and over time, you may require higher doses to achieve the same effect. This tolerance can quickly escalate into dependence, where your body and mind become reliant on the drug to function normally.

When a person become dependent on Xanax, stopping abruptly can trigger a dangerous withdrawal syndrome. This is where the risks of quitting “cold turkey” become starkly apparent.

The Dangers of Quitting Xanax Cold Turkey

Quitting Xanax cold turkey is highly dangerous and can lead to a range of severe, potentially life-threatening complications. These dangers include:   

Seizures are a particularly serious risk of Xanax withdrawal and can be fatal. They are more likely in people with a history of seizures, high Xanax doses, or long-term use. While rare, death can occur from complications of Xanax withdrawal, particularly from seizures or suicide.

How to Quit Xanax Safely

Overcoming Xanax dependence is a challenging but achievable journey. The key to a safe and successful withdrawal lies in seeking professional medical guidance. Attempting to quit “cold turkey” is strongly discouraged due to the severe and potentially life-threatening risks associated with abrupt cessation.

A healthcare professional can create a personalized plan tailored to your individual needs and medical history. Medical supervision offers several crucial benefits during Xanax withdrawal:

• Monitoring and managing withdrawal symptoms: Your treatment provider can assess the severity of your symptoms and provide medications or interventions to alleviate discomfort and ensure your safety.
• Addressing co-occurring mental health conditions: If you have underlying anxiety or depression, treatment can provide appropriate care and support during withdrawal.
• Preventing complications: Medical supervision helps to identify and address potential complications early, ensuring your well-being throughout the process.
• Providing emotional support: Withdrawal can be emotionally challenging. Your treatment team can offer encouragement and guidance, helping you stay motivated and committed to your recovery.

Therapy for Co-Occurring Disorders

Therapy for co-occurring disorders is essential for those who are dependent on Xanax. However, the journey to recovery involves more than just physical detoxification. Xanax misuse often stems from underlying mental health conditions like anxiety or depression. Addressing these co-occurring disorders through therapy is essential for long-term success.

Therapy can help you:

• Develop coping mechanisms: Learn healthy ways to manage anxiety, stress, and other triggers that may have led to Xanax misuse.
• Identify underlying causes: Explore the root causes of your anxiety or other mental health conditions, gaining insights into why you turned to Xanax in the first place.
• Build resilience: Develop the emotional strength and resilience to navigate life’s challenges without relying on medication.
• Prevent relapse: Create a relapse prevention plan and learn to recognize and manage triggers that could lead to Xanax use in the future.

Some times of evidence-based therapy that are used include:

• Solution-Focused Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy
• Motivational Interviewing

Getting Help for Xanax Addiction

If you or someone you care about is struggling with Xanax addiction, remember that help is available. Reaching out for support is a sign of strength, not weakness. Professional treatment can provide the guidance, support, and resources necessary to safely navigate the challenges of withdrawal and build a foundation for lasting recovery.

American Addiction Centers’ nationwide network of treatment centers provide addiction-focused compassionate healthcare to help people get on the road to recovery and back to living the life they deserve. Take the first step and reach out to us today at .