Xanax is the brand name of a drug that is prescribed to help with anxiety-related conditions.  It is a central nervous system depressant and when taken properly under the care of a physician, it can be beneficial for a myriad of conditions.  It is also one of the more popular drugs among young people. When used incorrectly, either by someone for whom the prescription is not written or by the correct patient in doses other than directed, it can become habit-forming.  It can also be highly addictive.

Central nervous system (CNS) depressants act on the brain in a specific manner to bring about the drowsy or relaxing effects that are so helpful for conditions involving anxiety.  A CNS depressant will increase the amount of neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. By increasing GABA, the depressants inhibit the ability for the neurotransmitters to communicate effectively.

Xanax is a benzodiazepine.  This is one of three classes of CNS depressants and the most commonly prescribed.  Generally, they are not prescribed for long-term or daily use because of the high risk for tolerance, dependence and addiction.

Why Is Xanax Addictive?

The powerful effects of CNS depressants, like Xanax, are obvious when an individual first begins to take the drug; however, the body quickly becomes accustomed to the medication and the euphoric side effects diminish.  For an individual who is taking the drug to treat a medical or psychological condition, in accordance with the directions, this will pose no significant problem.

When a drug is taken for purposes other than the reason for which it was prescribed, however, it is generally to achieve a euphoric reaction.  In a short period of time, because of the development of tolerance, an individual will need to take more of the drug to achieve the desired effect.  The brain’s daily operation becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug, as well.  When the drug is no longer introduced, the individual will begin to suffer the withdrawal effects of addiction.  The individual will then feel compelled to obtain more of the drug to feel “normal.”

In a vicious cycle, the individual who takes Xanax to gain the euphoric effects will need to continually increase the amounts they consume until they reach levels that pose a life-threatening risk of overdose.

Warning Signs of Abuse

Because Xanax is an oral medication, the signs and symptoms of abuse can be more difficult to ascertain.  There are no injection marks or other tell-tale signs of abuse.  It is possible, however, to recognize an individual who may have taken more than a typical dosage of Xanax by their behaviors and physical condition.  For instance, an individual may appear:

• Groggy, sleepy or drowsy
• Confused
• Uncoordinated or clumsy
• Physically weaker than normal
• Unable to breath normally

Xanax is often prescribed for conditions that cause headaches, insomnia or anxiety.  Ironically, overuse of this medication can enhance the conditions in the one prescribed the medication and cause them in someone who is otherwise healthy.

Popular Among Teens and Young Adults

Xanax is one of the most prescribed drugs with approximately three million Americans taking the medication daily.  Because of the prevalence, it is fairly easy for teens and young adults to obtain the drugs from their friends and family members.  Many times, they need only to check the medicine cabinets in their own homes.

According to one study conducted by the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA), prescription drug abuse is more common among 12- to 17-year-old children than all other illicit drugs combined, with the exception of marijuana.