How To Taper Off Xanax Safely?

Xanax is often prescribed in cases of anxiety and panic disorders, but as is the case with any medication, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Chronic use of Xanax can lead to dependency and other severe health risks. Our team at MAPS for Recovery is committed to helping our patients understand these risks and transition off the medication if necessary.

We are aware of the withdrawal symptoms associated with discontinuing Xanax, such as seizures, delirium, and extreme anxiety. That’s why we stress the importance of not attempting to stop using this medication without medical supervision. Our medical professionals are trained to handle these symptoms and minimize their impact.

Cognitive impairment is another concern associated with continuous Xanax use. At MAPS for Recovery, we believe in total health, which includes mental and cognitive well-being. We aim to help patients avoid or recover from this cognitive decline by providing therapeutic tools and techniques.

The development of tolerance to Xanax is another risk that we can help manage. Our team can guide patients through a slow, controlled reduction of dosage to avoid this dangerous cycle of increasing dosage and dependency.

We also consider the physical health risks associated with prolonged use of Xanax, such as drowsiness, impaired coordination, and increased risk of falls. Our holistic approach to recovery takes all aspects of a patient’s health into account. In terms of mental health, we understand that dependency on Xanax can intensify feelings of depression and anxiety.

We are experienced in the use of medications such as Clonazepam (Klonopin) and Diazepam (Valium), which are commonly prescribed for anxiety. These medications enhance the effects of a natural chemical in the body called GABA, producing a calming effect on the brain and nerves. With Clonazepam lasting for up to 12 hours and Diazepam for 20-100 hours, these medications are particularly suitable for patients experiencing persistent or severe anxiety symptoms.

Other long-acting medications that we use in the treatment of anxiety include Alprazolam (Xanax) and Lorazepam (Ativan). These medications, like Clonazepam and Diazepam, are benzodiazepines that help calm overactive brain functions.

We also utilize non-benzodiazepine longer-acting medications such as Buspirone (Buspar), Pregabalin (Lyrica), and Gabapentin (Neurontin). These medications increase serotonin levels or act as anticonvulsants with anxiolytic effects.

At MAPS for Recovery, we’re aware these medications can be very effective in managing anxiety, but they come with risks including the potential for abuse and dependence. Therefore, we ensure that these medications are used responsibly and under the close supervision of our healthcare professionals. We monitor our patients closely to manage any side effects and prevent withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.

We guide you through this journey. We advocate for a slow and gradual tapering process that can span several weeks to a few months or even longer, particularly for patients who have been taking high doses over an extended period. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid tapering can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms, making it crucial to have professional guidance and monitoring throughout the process.

At MAPS for Recovery, we start the tapering process by reducing your daily dosage over one to two weeks. This dosage is then further reduced and maintained for another one to two weeks. This pattern continues until you’re no longer taking the medication. During this time, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as physical discomfort, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Our team is committed to managing these symptoms and providing the support you need.

Even after the final dose, we understand that it can take a few days to a week for Xanax to completely leave your system. Withdrawal symptoms can persist for weeks or even months after discontinuation. Our team is equipped to provide psychological support, counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to assist you during this period.

We acknowledge that every person’s experience with transitioning off Xanax is unique. That’s why we value open and regular communication with our patients throughout the process, ensuring a safe and comfortable transition. At MAPS for Recovery, our goal is to guide you through your recovery journey, offering individualized care every step of the way. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We serve patients from Austin TX, Georgetown TX, Leander TX, Jonestown TX, Cedar Park TX, Round Rock TX, Rollingwood, TX, Bluff Springs TX, Del Valle TX, and surrounding areas.