Xanax Withdrawal

Since physical and psychological dependence may occur with Xanax, withdrawal symptoms may occur if the drug is stopped too quickly. Some possible symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include heart palpitations, memory loss, depression, and seizures. To avoid severe Xanax withdrawal symptoms, your healthcare provider will most likely wean you off the medication slowly to allow time for your body to adjust.

 

An Introduction to Xanax Withdrawal

Xanax® (alprazolam) is a prescription medication approved to treat panic disorder and anxiety. As with all benzodiazepine medications, stopping Xanax too quickly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Because Xanax can cause physical and psychological dependence, you should not stop taking Xanax suddenly or without your healthcare provider's approval.
 

Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms

Xanax withdrawal symptoms can include, but are not limited to:
 
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • A rapid heartbeat (tachycardia)
  • Heart palpitations
  • Hallucinations
  • Memory loss
  • Dizziness
  • Personality changes
  • Sensitivity to sound or light
  • Panic attacks
  • Seizures
  • A fever
  • Headaches
  • Anxiety
  • Tension
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Restlessness or irritability
  • Confusion
  • Sweating.
     
Seizures are often the most dangerous possible Xanax withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawal symptoms are most likely to occur if Xanax is stopped "cold turkey," but they are also possible if Xanax is not stopped slowly enough. Even forgetting a single dose of Xanax can lead to withdrawal symptoms. As your body gets used to Xanax, you may even begin to experience withdrawal symptoms between your usual Xanax doses.
 
(Xanax Withdrawal Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;