Written by:

Medically Reviewed by:

Dr Mateen Durrani – MBBS, DPM, MSc, BCPsych

Last Updated:

August 27th, 2024

Xanax withdrawal and detox

During 2016-2019, a shocking UK Gov study found that the number of under-18s attending benzodiazepine rehab trebled over the three-year period. The increasing number of youths receiving treatment indicates the broader issue of prescription drug addiction in the UK and requires immediate attention. Banbury Lodge is committed to providing detox programmes for these types of medications, such as Xanax, by offering a world-class, residential rehab facility to help you navigate a life towards sobriety.

Xanax detox

What is Xanax detox?

Xanax detox is a prescription drug detox that helps control withdrawal symptoms for people who have formed an issue with Xanax. During the detox process, the dose of Xanax is gradually reduced over time (known as tapering off) until the person no longer needs the drug to function physically.

What is Xanax withdrawal?

Xanax withdrawal refers to a set of physical and psychological symptoms that occur when an individual who has been using the prescription drug Xanax suddenly stops or reduces their use of the drug. Symptoms can vary from person to person, but most can expect to experience;

Anxiety
Insomnia
Tremors
Muscle pain
Headaches
Sweating
Nausea
Vomiting
Hallucinations
Seizures

The severity and duration of Xanax withdrawal symptoms can vary depending on factors such as the duration and frequency of drug use, the dose of the drug and the individual’s overall health.

The science behind why a Xanax withdrawal can be dangerous

The Xanax withdrawal process can be dangerous due to how the drug affects the brain. They work by increasing the activity of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to slow down activity in the central nervous system and reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.

Over time, the brain can become accustomed to the presence of Xanax and changes the way it functions to try to compensate for the drug’s effects. When Xanax use is suddenly stopped or reduced, the brain no longer has the drug to rely on and must readjust to its absence.

This readjustment process can lead to a sudden surge of activity in the brain, which can result in a number of serious complications.

What are the dangers of trying to perform a Xanax detox at home?

Due to the unpredictability of the brain and body during it’s readjustment stage, performing a Xanax detox at home can be very dangerous and is not recommended.
In some cases, the readjustment stage can bring a variety of different issues that include;

Seizures: Withdrawal from long-term Xanax use can cause seizures, which can be fatal if not managed appropriately.
Psychosis: In severe cases, Xanax withdrawal can cause delirium and/or psychosis, leading to hallucinations, confusion and agitation. This can be especially problematic if detox is performed at home or without the support of medical professionals.
Dehydration: Withdrawal can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, leading to a higher risk of dehydration.
Cardiovascular problems: Rapid heartbeat, chest pain and other cardiovascular problems can occur during Xanax withdrawal.
Relapse: Without proper medical support and treatment, the risk of relapse is higher and it can lead to further drug abuse.

It is therefore essential to seek professional help when detoxing from Xanax through an accredited rehab facility like Banbury Lodge.

Xanax detox - man with chest pain

How can Banbury Lodge help with the Xanax detox process?

Medical health professionals at Banbury Lodge can provide several methods to help deal with the withdrawal stage when detoxing from Xanax. The goal of these methods is to minimise the severe withdrawal symptoms and ensure your safety whilst you go through the detox process. At Banbury Lodge, you can expect the following:

Initial assessment and evaluation: Before starting detox, a healthcare professional at Banbury Lodge will thoroughly evaluate and assess your physical and mental health. This may involve a psychological evaluation or physical examinations.
Tapering: To avoid serious withdrawal symptoms and complications, a physician can gradually reduce the Xanax dosage over a set period. This allows the body to adjust to the decreased levels of the drug in the system and allows a smoother transition into the next stage of recovery.
Medications: Certain medications may be administered to lessen the severity of symptoms. These medications could come in the form of over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Medical monitoring: At Banbury Lodge, our residents are monitored around the clock to ensure their safety and stability during the detoxing process.
Nutritional support: Proper nutrition and hydration can help a person’s body cope with the withdrawal process. Banbury Lodge provides an in-house personal chef, as well as education on the best foods and liquids to eat during the detox process.
Emotional support: Medical professionals may offer emotional support or refer patients to counselling or support groups to help address the underlying issues leading to the initial Xanax addiction. This support form will usually be given during and after detox.

What is the generalised Xanax withdrawal timeline?

So you may be wondering what to expect during the withdrawal process. It is important to note that every person’s experience during Xanax withdrawal can differ. However, here is a general timeline of Xanax withdrawal and the symptoms that someone might experience.

Days three to five

In the days following discontinuing Xanax use, you may notice an increase in symptoms like anxiety, agitation, and depression. Physical symptoms may also continue, including sweating, tremors, nausea, and muscle pain. It’s possible to also experience rebound symptoms during this time.

Days six to fourteen

By this time, the physical symptoms of withdrawal have typically subsided. However, you may experience psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression and insomnia. It’s also likely to experience cravings for Xanax, which can be overwhelming.

Week two and over

During this time, you may still be experiencing psychological symptoms like anxiety and depression. However, symptoms typically begin to improve as the brain begins to regulate without the use of Xanax. Therapy and support groups can be helpful during this time to address any underlying issues that contributed to drug abuse.

Guidance on how to prepare for a successful Xanax detox

If you have chosen Banbury Lodge to carry out your Xanax detox, you may be feeling a little worried about the detox process and the next steps. It must be remembered that preparation is key and getting a head start on what is to come can be extremely beneficial for you. Below, we have listed a few tips and pointers to help you prepare for your detox in the right way.

Educate yourself on what to expect during the Xanax detox process, including common withdrawal symptoms, duration and potential risks. If there are some things that you don’t understand or perhaps you’re unsure on where to begin, remember that Banbury Lodge is here to provide any information you may need.

For an extra layer of confidence, it could be worth attending support groups before you enter detox. At groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA), you will be in touch with people who have most likely detoxed and succeeded prior to their visits, so listening to their experiences could be a fantastic source of information and inspiration.

Arrange for someone to help you with daily tasks or take care of any responsibilities while you’re in detox.

Banbury Lodge provides a comfortable, home-away-from-home environment so make sure to pack comfortable clothes, personal hygiene items and any necessary medications with prescriptions.

Let your family and close friends know that you are starting this process and that you need their support. If your family or friends openly use Xanax, it would be beneficial for you to ask them to remove any triggers in their homes for when you visit.

Work with Banbury Lodge to map out a post-detox aftercare plan in order to help prevent relapse and manage any residual symptoms you may experience.

Does completing Xanax detox mean I’ve finished the recovery process?

Getting rid of Xanax from your body is the first step towards healing, but it’s not enough to help you deal with your psyche and issues that led to Xanax problems in the first place. To continue your recovery journey, the next step is to attend Banbury Lodge’s Xanax rehab programme. Here, you’ll have access to therapy and counselling sessions that will help you work through your emotions and problems that led to Xanax abuse. You’ll also learn how to manage your feelings and prevent yourself from relapsing. Remember that it’s a challenging journey, but seeking help is the bravest thing you can do, and you don’t have to do it alone.

Frequently asked questions

How can I help a loved one who is going to Xanax detox?

If someone you care about is undergoing Xanax detox, offer emotional support and be there to listen. It’s important to encourage them to continue with the process, attend therapy sessions and perhaps even offer to join them (if applicable). Be patient, understanding and non-judgmental throughout their journey; they need you through this tough time.

Does Xanax detox cause rebound mental health issues?

Xanax detox can cause rebound mental health problems like anxiety, depression and insomnia. It’s important to work closely with healthcare professionals at Banbury Lodge during detox to minimise these effects and manage any underlying mental health issues.

How do I know if I need Xanax detox?

You may need Xanax detox if you experience signs of dependence or addiction, such as needing larger doses for the same effect, withdrawal symptoms when not using, or difficulty controlling your use. Seeking medical advice is crucial to determine if detox is necessary and to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.