Can Xanax Cause Seizures?

Xanax is a benzodiazepine which is commonly used to treat anxiety disorders and panic attacks. However, despite the many medical and therapeutic benefits that Xanax provides for those struggling with anxiety disorders, it is also highly abused. Even if you take Xanax as prescribed by your doctor, it can be both physically and psychologically addictive. Xanax withdrawal can also cause serious complications, some of which can be fatal. But can Xanax cause seizures?

If you are wondering if Xanax can cause seizures, the answer is that in some cases, it can cause you to experience seizures during withdrawal. In some instances, seizures caused by Xanax withdrawal can be fatal or cause serious medical issues, such as concussions or traumatic brain injuries.

If you are struggling with Xanax addiction, it is essential to seek medical treatment when you plan to stop using because of the seriousness of Xanax withdrawal symptoms.

Can Xanax Cause Seizures?

So, can Xanax cause seizures? Xanax withdrawal seizures can occur when you immediately stop using Xanax and have become physically dependent. While not everyone experiences seizures when they discontinue Xanax use, Xanax withdrawal can cause various symptoms, including:

• Increased heart rate
• Insomnia
• Anxiety, restlessness, and panic attacks
• Delirium
• Dizziness and feeling light-headed
• Malaise
• Mood changes, such as depression or irritability

Although Xanax is highly effective in treating anxiety, it has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from several days to several weeks but typically dissipate within several weeks.

Because Xanax withdrawal can cause seizures, finding a medical detox program is a crucial step to prevent potential complications. Since seizures can cause you to collapse expectantly, you could end up with a severe head injury if you hit a hard surface. Medical staff can help prevent the onset of Xanax withdrawal seizures and ensure you are safe during detox.

Dangers of Xanax Withdrawal

Xanax is a benzodiazepine class anxiety medication that works by calming the brain and nerves. When someone who has been taking Xanax regularly suddenly stops taking it, they will have withdrawal symptoms. The severity of the symptoms, as well as how long they last, depends on how much and how long a person took the drug.

Those who stop taking Xanax after a long-term usage will experience the most severe withdrawal symptoms. This is because, with continued use, the brain gets used to having the drug in its system and adjusts its chemical processes to adapt to this presence of Xanax. When it’s suddenly taken away, the brain reacts strongly since it doesn’t have the drug present to moderate its processes.

The symptoms of Xanax withdrawal include:

• General weakness, shakiness, and anxiety
• Muscle cramps -Insomnia or nightmares
• Loss of appetite
• Temperature regulation problems causing either extreme chills or sweating
• Nausea and vomiting
• Heart palpitations and increased heart rate
• Dehydration
• Seizures and seizures that do not stop easily with medicine
• Psychosis or hallucinations caused by extreme stress and fear
• Prolonged anxiety, stress, and panic

Those who have been taking the drug on a more casual basis for less than a couple months will experience less severe withdrawal symptoms, and those who had been taking the drug for a short time (less than a month) will likely show few or any physical signs of withdrawal.

Treatment Options for Xanax Addiction

Xanax is both physically and psychologically addictive. When you are physically dependent on Xanax, you will experience withdrawal symptoms when you immediately stop using. Withdrawal symptoms can be treated at an inpatient rehab or detox center. Inpatient programs offer the highest level of treatment and utilize different therapeutic techniques throughout treatment.

Other types of treatment can include:

• Partial hospitalization
• Outpatient programs
• Intensive Outpatient
• Individual counseling

Finding Help Today

If you are wondering can Xanax cause seizures, the answer is yes, making treatment a necessity when you choose to stop using Xanax. Finding the best benzodiazepine addiction treatment program is the first step towards recovery and ensures you stay safe and healthy throughout detox. Beaches Recovery offers the expertise and understanding to help you or a loved one achieve recovery in a scenic, secure setting. To learn more about our treatment programs and how they can help guide you during your recovery journey, call us today at 866.605.0532.