Millions of people in the United States live with symptoms of anxiety, panic, insomnia, and other conditions. Many people take prescription drugs to manage these symptoms and improve functioning. Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed medications used to treat anxiety and panic disorders.
People who misuse Xanax may develop a physical dependence on it. It can be challenging to stop taking Xanax without professional treatment and support.
This article will explore how long Xanax remains in the body once someone stops taking it. You will learn:
- How Xanax works
- What happens when people quit taking Xanax
- How long Xanax stays in the body
- How long Xanax may show up on a drug test
- What treatment is available during Xanax withdrawal
- Where to find comprehensive addiction treatment
If you or someone you love abuses Xanax or other substances, you are not alone. Contact the intake team at The Living Room to learn about our programs or to set up an intake appointment.
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for a prescription medication called alprazolam. People may be prescribed Xanax to manage the symptoms of an anxiety or panic disorder, insomnia, and other conditions.
Medical experts believe Xanax increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain, which can reduce anxiety symptoms. Xanax reduces central nervous system (CNS) activity, which can produce feelings of calm, less anxiety, euphoria, and sedative effects.
Xanax is a controlled substance, meaning it has the potential for abuse and addiction.
Understanding Xanax Withdrawal
Some people may like the side effects of Xanax, which can lead to misuse. Xanax misuse includes:
- Taking larger doses of Xanax than prescribed
- Taking Xanad for longer than prescribed
- Taking doses of Xanax more often than prescribed
- Using Xanax differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting the pills
- Taking Xanax without a prescription
- Mixing Xanax with alcohol or other drugs
Misusing Xanax for a prolonged amount of time can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. Once someone develops a physical dependence on Xanax, it can be very challenging to stop taking it. Many people require professional treatment and support to quit abusing Xanax and avoid relapse.
The withdrawal symptoms people experience when they stop taking Xanax can make it very challenging to avoid relapse. Common Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Excessive sweating
- Agitation
Nausea - Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Loss of appetite
- Tremors
Withdrawal symptoms can occur even after the body eliminates Xanax from its systems. Many factors can affect the length of time withdrawal symptoms last and their severity.
How Long Does Xanax Show Up on a Drug Test?
Xanax withdrawal symptoms can last for days or weeks. It can take a long time for the body to adjust to the absence of Xanax and rebalance. The body begins to metabolize Xanax right away, but it can take days to clear all Xanax from the body.
The half-life of Xanax is around 11.2 hours. However, drug tests can detect the presence of Xanax and its byproducts for days or weeks. Here is an overview of how long drug tests may detect Xanax.
Urine tests
Urine drug screenings may detect Xanax in urine for up to five days after your last dose.
Blood tests
Blood testing may detect Xanax for up to five days after your last dose.
Saliva tests
Saliva testing is generally less sensitive than blood or urine testing. The detection window for this type of testing is about 2.5 days after your last dose.
Hair testing
Hair testing is uncommon but has the longest detection window. Hair testing may detect Xanax for up to 90 days after your last dose.
Many factors can affect how long drug tests can detect Xanax. Metabolism, body composition, age, gender, and dose can impact how long Xanax may show up on a drug test.
Worrying about testing positive for Xanax may be a sign you need professional substance abuse treatment. Getting treatment can help you understand and address your substance abuse. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of Xanax abuse or addiction.
Xanax Detox Treatment
Having supervision, treatment, and support throughout detox can help you stay focused, safe, and comfortable at every stage.
Medical Xanax detox programs typically include:
- Medications to ensure safety and reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Mental health treatment and emotional support
- Individual and group counseling
- Holistic therapies like nutrition support, mindfulness, and exercise
After completing a detox program, it is crucial to continue treatment. Comprehensive treatment programs help people address the underlying roots of their substance abuse. People receive supervision and support, find connections, and learn how to prevent relapse in the future.
Find Treatment Now
Xanax addiction can harm your mental and physical health and keep you from living the healthy life you choose. If you or someone you love struggles with Xanax abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Reach out to the intake team at The Living Room to learn more about our Xanax addiction treatment programs. Contact our specialists with questions, to verify insurance, or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- Sage Journals: Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: an Internet survey
- National Institute of Health (NIH): A Review of Alprazolam Use, Misuse, and Withdrawal
- The American Journal of Psychiatry: Benzodiazepines: A Perspective
- Oxford Academic: Benzodiazepine in a Urine Specimen Without Drug Metabolites
- NIH: Urinary screening for alprazolam and its major metabolites by the Abbott ADx and TDx analyzers with confirmation by GC/MS