What Is a Xanax Bar?
A Xanax bar is a tablet of alprazolam, a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. Xanax bars work by depressing the central nervous system and increasing the calming effect of GABA neurotransmitters. The name "Xanax" is the brand name for this medication, and the term "bars" typically refers to the tablet form of the drug.
In this post, Avenues Recovery, premier addiction rehabilitation specialists, discuss what Xanax bars look like, their usual size, and common side effects.
What Does a Xanax Bar Look Like?
Xanax bars are rectangular tablets scored down the middle, allowing them to be broken into smaller doses if needed. Xanax bars come in a host of different colors and have many slang names, including:
- Planks
- Handlebars
- Zannies (or Xannies)
- Blue footballs (blue Xanax bars)
- School buses (yellow Xanax bars)
How Many mg Are in a Xanax Bar?
A typical Xanax bar contains 2 milligrams (mg) of alprazolam. The 2mg Xanax bar is often referred to as the "Xanax 2" or "Xanax white bar" due to its white color and 2 mg strength. However, a bar of Xanax can come in a variety of different dosages and amounts, most commonly:
- Xanax 0.25 mg: This is the lowest dose and is often used to start treatment or for individuals with mild anxiety.
- Xanax 0.5 mg: This dose is still relatively low and may be used for mild to moderate anxiety.
- Xanax 1 mg: This moderate dose may be prescribed for individuals with moderate to severe anxiety or panic disorders.
- Xanax 2 mg: This is a higher dose and is usually prescribed for severe anxiety or panic disorders. It's essential to be cautious with this dosage due to its potential for increased sedation and risk of dependence.
Are Xanax Bars Addictive?
Yes, Xanax bars are addictive. They have a high potential for abuse and can be habit-forming if not used as prescribed by a healthcare professional. Misuse or abuse of Xanax can lead to various health risks and side effects.
If you or a loved one suffer from a Xanax or benzo addiction, reach out to us at Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on the road to recovery.
Xanax Bars: The Statistics
Xanax bar abuse is very common, especially among teens. In fact, teens are most likely to abuse Xanax for non-medical purposes. Unfortunately, Xanax is the tranquilizer of choice for 12th graders in the U.S., with more than 10% of young adults aged 18-25 abusing Xanax.
The U.S. has the largest black market for Xanax, with pills easily obtainable on the darknet. (The darknet is a hidden part of the internet accessible only through specific software, known for its anonymity and hosting of legal and illegal activities.)
The United Kingdom is second to the U.S. in terms of the amount of drugs sold on the black market. In 2017, 27 Xanax-related deaths were reported in Scotland, which caused the police to issue a warning about Xanax use.
Xanax Bars Risks
These are some of the risks of Xanax bar abuse:
Physical Dependence
One of the most significant dangers of Xanax abuse is the potential for physical dependence. Over time, the body may become accustomed to the drug, leading to tolerance, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect. This can make it challenging to quit using Xanax without experiencing strong withdrawal symptoms.
Withdrawal Symptoms
When a person dependent on Xanax tries to stop using it suddenly, they experience Xanax withdrawal symptoms, which can be uncomfortable and even life-threatening in severe cases. These symptoms may include:
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Seizures
Psychological Dependence
In addition to physical dependence, Xanax bar abuse can lead to psychological dependence. People may feel emotionally reliant on the drug to cope with anxiety or stress, leading to compulsive use even when it's no longer medically necessary.
Memory and Cognitive Impairment
Xanax is a central nervous system depressant, which means it can impair cognitive function, memory, and concentration, especially when taken in high doses. This can interfere with daily activities, work, and relationships.
Drug Interactions
Xanax interacts with alcohol, opioids, and other substances, which can lead to dangerous outcomes, including overdose. Combining Xanax with other depressants can cause respiratory depression, which may be life-threatening.
Mental Health Issues
Long-term Xanax abuse can cause or exacerbate health issues, including depression and anxiety disorders. Paradoxically, discontinuing Xanax use after prolonged abuse can lead to far worse anxiety than before.
Legal Consequences
Xanax is a controlled substance, and using it without a prescription or in ways not recommended by a healthcare professional is illegal. If caught, individuals may face legal consequences.
Overdose
Taking large amounts of Xanax or combining it with other substances can result in a Xanax bar overdose, which could lead to death.
What Are the Side Effects of Xanax Bars?
Xanax bars side effects commonly include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Lowered sex drive
- Drowsiness
- Appetite changes
- Weight changes
- Mood Swings
- Dizziness
Taking Xanax Bars While Pregnant or as a Senior
It is not recommended to use Xanax during pregnancy, because it can cause fetal abnormalities. Xanax is also not recommended for nursing mothers since it enters the breast milk, which could cause damage to a breastfed newborn.
The recommended Xanax dosage for geriatric patients is 0.25 mg two or three times daily, which can be increased gradually if necessary. Geriatric patients may be more sensitive to Xanax bars and should consult their primary healthcare provider if they experience discomfort or adverse side effects when taking Xanax.
Symptoms of a Xanax Bar Overdose
Xanax bar overdose symptoms include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Extreme confusion
- Severe coordination problems
- Slowed breathing
- Convulsions
- Coma
- Death
What Is the Treatment for Xanax Bar Addiction?
Medically-monitored detox is the first step in treating a Xanax bar addiction. Medical detox is conducted under the supervision of healthcare professionals who can monitor and manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Gradual tapering of the medication is often used to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Medications such as longer-acting benzodiazepines or other drugs may be prescribed to help with the withdrawal process.
Once detoxification is completed, behavioral therapy is a critical component of addiction treatment. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT), and contingency management are often used to help individuals understand the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and learn how to avoid relapse.
Get Help for Xanax Bar Abuse
If you or a loved one suffer from a Xanax bar or benzo addiction, know that there is hope. Our dedicated and professional team of addiction counselors have helped thousands of people just like you overcome their addictions. At Avenues Recovery, we combine specialized treatment plans and a wide variety of therapies to enable you to achieve sobriety. No one needs to struggle with addiction alone! Reach out to us today so we can guide you on the road to recovery.