Xanax is a prescription medication that is prescribed to patients who suffer from a variety of anxiety and panic disorders. 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. This is a very short term solution as Xanax is not prescribed long term, as mandated by the FDA.
Most patients find that they are able to gain control of symptoms within a week of starting Xanax. 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.
Xanax is known to potentially cause some unwanted 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 specific medical needs. Xanax no prescription