An Introduction to Xanax Overdose
Xanax® (
alprazolam) is a medication that is used to treat
panic disorder and
anxiety. As with all medicines, it is possible for a person to overdose on Xanax. The specific effects of a Xanax overdose will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much Xanax was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines, alcohol, or street drugs.
Symptoms of a Xanax Overdose
If a person takes too much Xanax, the symptoms can vary. Some commonly reported symptoms of a Xanax overdose include:
- Drowsiness
- Confusion
- Coordination problems
- Slow reflexes
- Coma
- Breathing problems
- Loss of life.
Life-threatening overdose symptoms are more likely to occur if Xanax is combined with alcohol or other medications, especially other medications that affect the brain.
Treatment for a Xanax Overdose
The treatment for a Xanax overdose will vary.
If the overdose was recent, a healthcare provider may give certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." Flumazenil (Romazicon
®), an antidote for benzodiazepine overdose, may be helpful. Treatment also involves supportive care, which consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Other treatments based on complications that occur.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on Xanax.
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