Xanax is the brand name for a drug called alprazolam. Doctors prescribe Xanax to ease the symptoms of anxiety, depression, or frequent panic attacks. While Xanax can help with these mental disorders, it can also be deadly if you overdose on it. Doctors strongly recommend that you do not drink alcohol if you are on Xanax.
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GABA: The Active Ingredient in Xanax
Xanax is in the same category as other benzodiazepines such as Adderall or Vyvanse. The active ingredient in Xanax is gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). It works on your system by calming your nerves and putting you in a relaxed emotional state. This effect can be addictive, as it is easy to form a dependence on Xanax.
If you are currently taking Xanax, then you need to be aware of how it affects your brain. When you take Xanax, it helps your brain release dopamine, a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of euphoria. If you take the drug every day, then your brain becomes accustomed to this euphoric feeling. This is how dependency occurs.
An overdose may occur when you request an increase in the dosage because the euphoric feelings eventually wear off. Naturally, the higher your dosage, the more dangerous the drug becomes.
How Many Xanax Can You Take at One Time
Adults usually start with 0.25 to 0.5 mg of Xanax 1 to 3 times daily, not exceeding 4 mg. Older adults may begin with 0.25 mg 2 or 3 times a day. Children’s dosage must be determined by a doctor. Always consult a healthcare provider for specific guidance.
Can You Overdose on Xanax?
The answer is yes. It is possible to overdose on Xanax if you exceed your prescribed dosage. You may also witness the signs of Xanax overdose if you take it while using other prescription drugs, illicit drugs, or drinking alcohol. If you have an addiction to Xanax, you may want to seek help at a Xanax addiction treatment center in Northern IL.
A lethal dosage of Xanax depends on several factors, such as:
- Metabolism
- Body weight
- Age
- Overall health (pre-existing medical conditions)
- Alcohol or drug consumptions
The actual dosage range that could lead to an overdose is between 331 and 2100 mg per kilogram of body weight. What this essentially means is that you would have to take an exceptionally high amount of Xanax to overdose.
However, the amount of dosage is not the only factor to consider. All of the other factors listed above play into the equation. If you currently take other medication, it can inhibit your body’s ability to break down Xanax. This increases the possibility of addiction and can lead to severe side effects. Before taking Xanax, make sure you consult your doctor. Only take it by prescription and as prescribed.
Do You Have an Addiction to Xanax?
Can you overdose on Xanax? Absolutely. To find out more about Xanax overdose or addiction, contact Northern Illinois Recovery Center. We offer comprehensive treatment for addiction at our Xanax addiction treatment center near Chicago. Call us today at 855.786.1978 to speak with a treatment specialist.
Licensed Physician and Surgeon
Dr. Beth Dunlap, a board-certified addiction medicine and family medicine physician, and is the medical director at Northern Illinois Recovery Center. She is responsible for overseeing all the integrated medical services at both campuses. Beth completed medical school, residency, and fellowship at Northwestern University, where she continues to serve on the faculty as a member of the Department of Family and Community Medicine. She has extensive experience in addiction medicine at all levels of care, and her clinical interests include integrated primary care and addiction medicine, harm reduction, and medication-assisted treatment.
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