Xanax: A Comprehensive Guide

Xanax and its generic counterpart alprazolam are vital necessities for many Americans that suffer from anxiety disorders. Michael Jackson's Xanax addiction caused him to take over 10 pills per day. Let's take a more in depth look at Xanax and what it does to those who take it.

The Correct Uses for Xanax

According to Wikipedia, Xanax is best suited for the short term treatment of panic and anxiety disorders. For the most part, patients who are prescribed Xanax or alprazolam will only be on the drug for 2-8 weeks depending on their symptoms. The body becomes used to Xanax and if treatment is needed longer than 8 weeks, dosages may be increased. Xanax or alprazolam is only to be prescribed and used under the care and supervision of a doctor.

Side Effects of Xanax

Xanax has many side effects. Xanax can make you sleepy, euphoric, suicidal, or depressed. In addition, Xanax can cause dry mouth, constipation, jaundice, slurred speech, hallucinations, and skin rashes. If someone is concerned about Xanax side effects, they need to speak with their doctor. If someone has been on Xanax or alprazolam a long time and wishes to get off of the drug, they need to contact their doctor as quitting this drug cold turkey can cause seizures.

Xanax Addition

Those who take Xanax can become addicted. Such is the case for Michael Jackson, how had a 10+ Xanax habit a day. Typical doses of Xanax call for ½-2 Xanax pills daily. However, those who become addicted to Xanax desire the drug in larger and larger doses to feel Xanax's pleasurable effects such as sleepiness.

Recreational Xanax Uses

Xanax is abused when people take it for recreational purposes. Taking the drug for recreational purposes can be deadly, and must be avoided. According to Wikipedia "About 50% of the cases of death involving alprazolam were attributed to combined drug toxicity of alprazolam and another drug, most often cocaine and methadone. Only 1% of such deaths were attributed to alprazolam alone"

Michael Jackson's Death and Xanax

Xanax addiction has been cited by a few sources as a factor in the death of Michael Jackson. Alprazolam usage alone was not enough to kill Michael. Michael Jackson was on a volatile cocktail of drugs with lethal interactions.

Alprazolam is a useful drug used to treat panic disorders and anxiety. When used correctly, patients can feel a lot better. However, Alprazolam has an addictive properties. Patients need to take steps to ensure that they do not become dependent on Xanax or use Xanax to treat their ailments without the help of a qualified medical professional.

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