Is Xanax making me depressed?
Yes, Xanax can make you depressed. Xanax belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants. One of the most common side effects of Xanax is depression, including feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest.
What are the harmful effects of Xanax?
violent or aggressive behavior. suicidal thoughts and actions. Perhaps the most deadly side effects of long-term Xanax use and use are seizures. This is an intense brain disturbance that may cause the body to spasm. Seizures can result in brain damage or death if they occur repeatedly or for last a long period of time.
Is Xanax a sedative or tranquilizer?
Xanax, a benzodiazepine, is a prescription medicine used to treat anxiety and panic attacks. Xanax is actually Alprazolam, and is prescribed as a potent sedative. Although its effects are strong, technically it works like a mild tranquilizer. Xanax calms the senses and thought process, in order to reduce overall psychological stress.
Is Xanax a sedative hypnotic or anxiolytic?
Sedative-hypnotic drugs — sometimes called "depressants" — and anxiolytic (antianxiety) drugs slow down the activity of the brain. Benzodiazepines (Ativan, Halcion, Librium, Valium, Xanax, Rohypnol) are the best known. Benzodiazepines are a good treatment for anxiety and are also useful in sleep disorders. What drugs are anxiolytics?
What drugs are central nervous system depressants?
Examples of CNS depressants are benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and certain sleep medicines. CNS depressants are sometimes called sedatives or tranquilizers. Also called central nervous system depressant.
How does Xanax affect the central nervous system?
Xanax is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It is in the benzodiazepine class of medications, which comprises drugs that slow down the CNS. Xanax works by increasing the effects of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which promotes calmness and produces a relaxed feeling.
Does Xanax suppress central nervous system?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a sedative, or central nervous system depressant medication, that is commonly used to address issues with clinically significant anxiety, to initiate sleep, and to address agitation.
What class of drug is Xanax classified as?
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorder (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks). Alprazolam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines.
Why is Xanax not prescribed for anxiety?
Xanax is often prescribed for anxiety disorders because it can help relieve anxiety symptoms quickly. However, other anxiety medications and talk therapy are better long-term choices for treating anxiety because Xanax has side effects, a risk of overdose, and the potential for dependence.
What does benzodiazepines do to the central nervous system?
Benzodiazepines are a group of CNS depressants which induce feelings of calm (anxiolysis), drowsiness and sleep. They act by facilitating the binding of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA at various GABA receptors throughout the CNS.
Does your brain go back to normal after benzodiazepines?
When benzodiazepine users cease long-term benzodiazepine therapy, their cognitive function improves in the first six months, although deficits may be permanent or take longer than six months to return to baseline.
What slows down the central nervous system?
CNS depressants are substances that can slow down your central nervous system. Some common examples include opioids, sedatives, and hypnotics. These drugs are used to treat pain, anxiety, sleep disorders, and stress.
How long does Xanax affect the brain?
The effects most often kick in between 15 and 60 minutes, and can last between three and four hours.
What should you avoid while taking alprazolam?
What Should I Avoid While Taking Alprazolam? Avoid drinking alcohol and using illegal drugs while you are taking alprazolam. They may decrease the benefits (e.g., worsen your condition) and increase the adverse effects (e.g., sedation) of the medication.
What is the strongest benzodiazepine?
For its high-potency and long-lasting effects, the most potent benzodiazepine is Clonazepam, also known as Klonopin. Other high-potency but short-acting benzos are alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and triazolam (Halcion).
Does Xanax cause weight gain?
Weight Fluctuations Consistent Xanax abuse can cause both weight gain and weight loss. Sometimes, people who abuse Xanax reduce their energy output and sleep more, which can cause weight gain. Conversely, some people lose their appetite entirely.
Does your brain go back to normal after benzodiazepines?
When benzodiazepine users cease long-term benzodiazepine therapy, their cognitive function improves in the first six months, although deficits may be permanent or take longer than six months to return to baseline.
What neurotransmitter does Xanax block?
When Xanax is bound to BNZ1 and BNZ2, GABA is more likely to bind to the GABA receptor. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. It works to decrease the excitability of neurons, decreasing the nerve signal emitted.
What is Xanax used for?
They are prescribed to treat anxiety, panic, acute stress reactions, and sleep disorders. Xanax is categorized as a benzodiazepine, a classification of its drug type that includes Valium, Klonopin, Halcion, and Prosom.
How to contact Xanax?
If you think you or a friend may have an issue with Xanax or other CNS depressants, call (530) 752-6334 or go to Health-e-messaging and log in to schedule an appointment with the Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug Intervention Services Coordinator. There is no charge for the confidential appointment.
Does Xanax cause sleepiness?
Xanax increases gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that slows brain activity. Initial responses to CNS depressants may include sleepiness and incoordination. Other effects include:
Can you overdose on a CNS depressant?
Overdosing on a CNS depressant is possible through the slowing or stopping of breathing. Hypoxia occurs when there is a decrease in the amount of oxygen reaching the brain. This can have both short- and long-term effects on the nervous system, including but not limited to comatose and permanent brain damage.
Can you take a med for long term withdrawal?
If taken for the long term, higher dosages may be required in order to receive the same effects. Tolerance may occur such that people need higher and more frequent doses. Long term use may also lead to dependence and withdrawal with discontinued or harmful consequences such as seizures. Withdrawal symptoms vary in the time of onset, but include:
Can Xanax Cause Depression?
Yes. Like all benzodiazepines, Xanax is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Another popular CNS depressant is alcohol. While these drugs can relax you, they can also cause depressive symptoms such as:
What is the best medication for anxiety?
Some doctors prescribe alprazolam (brand name Xanax) to treat anxiety disorders like panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. This medication can provide short-term relief for panic attacks and other symptoms of anxiety.
Is Xanax a tranquilizer?
No. Xanax is a tranquilizer, which means it’s designed to decrease anxiety and agitation. It belongs to a class of tranquilizers known as benzodiazepines (or “benzos”). Other benzodiazepines include clonazepam (brand name Klonopin), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan).
Can benzodiazepines be used for depression?
While benzodiazepines won ’t treat depression, they’re sometimes prescribed alongside antidepressants for people who suffer from co-occurring anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.
What is the CNS of Xanax?
Xanax as a CNS (Central Nervous System) Depressant Alprazolam is a medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. Its trade name is Xanax. It belongs to the medication class of benzodiazepines.
How many Xanax pills can you take a day?
Tolerance to it develops quickly within users. And often they are lured into consuming more of the drug to achieve the desired effects. In some cases , addiction may reach the limit of 20 to 30 pills per day.
Can you use Xanax for a purpose?
Xanax may also be used for the purpose which is not listed in medication guides.
Can you take Xanax while breastfeeding?
Also, while breastfeeding you should avoid taking Xanax as it passes into breast milk and harms the nursing baby.
Does alprazolam cause anxiety?
Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people suffering from an anxiety disorder, panic disorders and anxiety caused by depression.
Can medication cause addiction?
Often used as medication, in many cases it can cause addictions. The risk of addiction is higher if you have a substance use disorder as in the case of overuse of or addiction to alcohol or drugs.
Can Xanax cause sleepiness?
If you are consuming any of the below-listed medicines currently, make sure to tell your doctor about the same before starting with Xanax. You may feel sleepy or slow down in your breathing rate. These are the dangerous side effects of this medication.
How to treat addiction to CNS depressants?
Treatment and Therapies for CNS Depressant Addiction. Treatment for addiction to a central nervous system depressant begins with detox to allow the drugs to exit the system, preferably in rehab or medical facility.
How do CNS depressants work?
Different classes of CNS depressants work in different ways, but all have the ability to reduce activity in the central nervous system and lower levels of awareness in the brain. While CNS depressants all share this ability, there are significant differences among substances within this drug class. In particular, some are generally considered ...
What is a barbiturate?
Barbiturates, or “downers,” are a type of CNS depressant that are prescribed to treat anxiety, tension, and sleep disorders. Common barbiturates include Amytal, Luminal (Phenobarbital), Mebaral, Nembutal, and Seconal.
What are the different types of CNS depressants?
There are three major types of CNS depressants: sedatives, hypnotics, and tranquilizers. Drugs that are classified as CNS depressants include: Different classes of CNS depressants work in different ways, but all have the ability to reduce activity in the central nervous system and lower levels of awareness in the brain.
What is the best medication for anxiety?
Benzodiazepines. Sometimes called “benzos,” benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that are prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, convulsions, and other acute stress reactions. Common benzos include Valium, Xanax, and Ativan. Benzodiazepines are highly effective in treating anxiety and insomnia due to the sleep-inducing, ...
How does alcohol affect the brain?
The degree to which the brain is affected by this central nervous system depressant depends on how much, and how fast, a person drinks. Due to the initial positive behavioral effects of alcohol, many people don’t realize that the substance is a CNS depressant. For example, when someone first begins to drink, he or she may feel less reserved and more relaxed because of the chemical changes alcohol causes within the brain. However, the more someone drinks, the more the brain is affected and the likelihood that a negative emotional response will take over. Alcohol can actually increase anxiety and stress rather than reduce it, and elicit other negative reactions such as anger, aggression, and depression. Chronic alcohol use can also lead to dependence, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop usage of the drug.
How does the central nervous system work?
Central nervous system depressants work by increasing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA, which in turn slows down brain activity and produces feelings of relaxation, drowsiness, and a number of other effects, including: Lowered blood pressure. Dilated pupils.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a sedative, or central nervous system depressant medication, that is commonly used to address issues with clinically significant anxiety, to initiate sleep, and to address agitation. It is also used to treat seizures and as a preanesthetic.
How does Xanax affect the brain?
Xanax Effects on Brain Functions. The changes in the neuropathways of the brain that occur as a result of long-term Xanax abuse include, but are not limited to: A decrease in the number of neuron receptors for inhibitory neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), referred to as down regulation.
Why do elderly people take Xanax?
According to research studies , elderly individuals may be prescribed benzodiazepines for the treatment of anxiety or for sleep at a higher rate than would be expected. The potential effects of Xanax abuse are enhanced in older individuals due to differences in the metabolism of older people compared to younger people.
What are the changes associated with long term use of Xanax?
Some of the changes associated with long-term use or abuse include:of Xanax. Changes in the neuropathways of the brain. Potential changes in behavior. Susceptibility to chronic conditions or diseases as a result of the drug’s mechanism of action.
What are the short term effects of Xanax?
According to professional sources, such as the four-volume set The Neuropathology of Drug Addictions and Drug Abuse, the short-term effects of Xanax use and abuse include: Sedation. A significant reduction in anxiety or the subjective experience of perceived stress. Lightheadedness.
What are the effects of Xanax?
The primary effects of Xanax include: A reduction in feelings of anxiety or stress. Sedation. An immediate slowing of the functioning of the central and peripheral nervous system. A relatively quick onset of the effects of the drug and a relatively short duration of action.
What is down regulation?
A decrease in the number of neuron receptors for inhibitory neurotransmitters like gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), referred to as down regulation.
What is Xanax?
Xanax ( alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that alprazolam works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
How should I take Xanax?
Take Xanax exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Xanax in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.
What other drugs will affect Xanax?
Sometimes it is not safe to use certain medicines at the same time. Some drugs can affect your blood levels of other drugs you use, which may increase side effects or make the medicines less effective.
How long does Xanax last?
One dose of Xanax can last anywhere from 31 hours to 134.5 hours (5.6 days) in the body, depending on factors related to the individual who took it. However, the calming, relaxing, and sedative effects of Xanax usually wear off within about eight to twelve hours. Continue reading.
How to know if you overdosed on alprazolam?
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, and fainting.
What happens if you are allergic to Xanax?
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to Xanax: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
What to do if your symptoms are not improving?
Call your doctor if your symptoms do not improve, or if they get worse.
How are BZDs absorbed?
From a pharmacological perspective, BZDs are usually well absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. After intravenous administration, BZDs quickly distribute to the brain and central nervous system. BZD activity is terminated by redistribution similar to that of the lipid-soluble barbiturates. Following intramuscular injection, absorption of diazepam or chlordiazepoxide is slow and erratic, whereas absorption of intramuscular administration of lorazepam or midazolam appears to be rapid and complete. Lorazepam is well absorbed after sublingual administration, reaching peak levels in 60 minutes.2
What receptors are BZDs on?
BZDs act as positive allosteric modulators on the gamma amino butyric acid (GABA)-A receptor. The GABA-A receptor is a ligand-gated chloride-selective ion channel.
What is the effect of Gaba on the brain?
GABA is inhibitory in nature and thus reduces the excitability of neurons. GABA produces a calming effect on the brain.2The 3 GABA receptors are designated A, B, and C. This article focuses primarily on the GABA-A receptor, with which BZDs interact.
How is pharmacokinetics affected?
Pharmacokinetics (determination of the onset of action and the duration of drug effect) is affected by route of administration, absorption, and volume of distribution. BZDs can be administered via intramuscular, intravenous, oral, sublingual, intranasal, or rectal gel forms. Characteristics of the drug—including lipid solubility, binding to plasma proteins, and molecular size—influence the volume of distribution. Pharmacodynamics and pharmacologic drug effects are described in terms of dose-response curves that depict the relationship between the dose and the resulting pharmacologic effect. Dose-response curves predict the effect of the drug on the patient as doses increase. Titration of a drug should proceed based on the expected pharmacodynamics. Key considerations during titration of medications include making the appropriate choice for the patient's condition (eg, renal failure, liver failure, previous drug exposure), appropriate choice of incremental dosing (ie, time and quantity), and periodic monitoring.9
What is the clinically appropriate use of BZDs?
Clinically appropriate use of BZDs requires prudence and the understanding of pharmacology.
Why are benzodiazepines so popular?
Owing to the low therapeutic index of barbiturates, benzodiazepines (BZDs) became popular in this country and worldwide many decades ago for a wide range of conditions. Because of an increased understanding of pharmacology and physiology, the mechanisms of action of many BZDs are now largely understood, and BZDs of varying potency and duration of action have been developed and marketed. Although BZDs have many therapeutic roles and BZD-mediated effects are typically well tolerated in the general population, side effects and toxicity can result in morbidity and mortality for some patients. The elderly; certain subpopulations of patients with lung, liver, or kidney dysfunction; and patients on other classes of medication are especially prone to toxicity.
What is the pharmacokinetics of benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepine Pharmacokinetics. The pharmacokinetic properties of a drug determine its onset of action and the duration of its effect. Specifically, pharmacokinetics describes the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion of a drug (ie, what the body does to the drug).
