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May 17, 2019

How Long Does Xanax High Last?

Have you ever wondered how long Xanax high lasts?  If you or someone you care about is struggling with an addiction to Xanax, it can be beneficial to learn what it does to the body, how long Xanax high typically lasts, and the signs of Xanax abuse.

Below we will provide a brief background on the drug and cover how long it is expected to last. Hopefully with this knowledge, you will be better prepared to help a loved one fight their addiction to achieve sobriety.

What Is Xanax?

Before breaking down how long Xanax high lasts, it’s vital to first understand how the drug works. Xanax, which is the brand name for alprazolam, is classified as a benzodiazepine and is often prescribed to patients that are suffering with anxiety disorders. Xanax helps calm individuals suffering with these conditions and can reduce other unwanted symptoms. However, when abused, dependency will often develop. From there, an individual can develop a Xanax addiction rather quickly.

Xanax and The Human Body

Every drug interacts with the body differently. That’s why each substance will also have a different high. To understand a Xaxas high specifically, it’s important to take a look at what Xanax does to the body and how it produces a fast-acting calming effect.

To produce a relaxed state of mind, Xanax triggers an increased amount of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a natural chemical found in the body. A smaller amount of GABA in the brain decreases blood pressure and heart rate to slow down the movement of brain chemicals.

In some cases, Xanax may create a temporary feeling of euphoria as the brain experiences a rush of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that governs the brain’s reward and pleasure centers. The combination of these effects is what reduces symptoms of anxiety disorders and other mental health issues in individuals.

How Long Does Xanax High Last?

While Xanax is a prescription medication that is intended for use in medical treatment, it is often sold and consumed illegally to produce a high. It usually only takes about 30 minutes for a person abusing Xanax to feel the high. When Xanax is consumed, the body quickly metabolizes the drug and begins to regulate GABA. The peak concentration of Xanax in the bloodstream typically occurs within 1 to 2 hours after ingestion.

A variety of factors can play a role in how quickly an individual will be able to feel the effects of Xanax. Factors to consider may include an individual’s age, height, weight, how long they have been taking Xanax, or at what dosage they have been taking it. Xanax is a fast-acting drug, but it is not long-lasting, with a Xanax high typically only lasting roughly four hours for a single dose. In some cases, a high may last up to six hours depending on the individual and the dosage consumed.

Signs of Xanax Abuse

There are a number of signs that may be present when someone is abusing Xanax. If you notice that an individual has one or more of these symptoms, it may be an indication that they have developed a dependency and they need addiction treatment.

Below are a handful of common signs of Xanax use and abuse.

  • Sedation
  • Drowsiness
  • Concentration and memory problems
  • Nausea
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Irritability
  • Lack of coordination
  • Tremors
  • Dry mouth
  • Lightheadedness
  • Sleeping for long, extended amounts of time
  • Sluggishness
  • Trouble forming words
  • Trouble with cognition

As an individual continues to use Xanax, they will have to take a higher dosage to achieve the same effects as their body will begin to build up a tolerance. As they continue to increase the amount of Xanax they are taking, the signs of Xanax use will likely become more obvious and the potential dangers will increase. When an individual is regularly using Xanax, they may also display hostility, aggression, or even develop depression. In addition, extended Xanax abuse can also lead to hallucinations, seizures, chest pains, involuntary muscle movements, and even overdose.  Xanax withdrawal symptoms are a good sign that a dependency has developed. To stop your addiction from worsening, seek professional help as soon as possible.

Whether you suffer from anxiety or a different panic disorder, it’s important to note that while Xanax can significantly help your symptoms, it is also highly addictive and should be taken with caution. If you have recently asked yourself, “Do I need Xanax rehab?” please know you are not alone and help is waiting for you. To stop your addiction to Xanax, you must get professional help from a doctor at a reliable Florida rehab. If you are ready to set on the road to recovery, please call Beach House Recovery today.

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