Xanax is a brand name of generic drug called alprazolam. It belongs to the benzodiazepine family of psychiatric drug that is usually prescribed for mild depression, anxiety neuroses and panic disorder. It has a calming effect on brain and central nervous system. Xanax has short half life and the action of this drug is quick once it enters into the stomach. This characteristic feature of xanax makes it more addictive especially if the drug is taken in large doses or for a longer duration.
Abrupt stoppage of xanax can cause unwanted withdrawal symptoms such as loss of appetite, headache, insomnia, anxiety, cramps in muscles and many more symptoms.
Signs And Symptoms Of Xanax Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms of xanax occur in a person who suddenly stops taking this drug which he used to take for a long time. After stoppage he may not feel normal or may experience many physical as well as psychological symptoms. The withdrawal symptoms of xanax are more intense than other benzodiazepine drugs. Thus xanax is usually prescribed for a short period due to potential risk of dependence.
The most common withdrawal symptoms that may develop after its abrupt discontinuation are; insomnia, increased anxiety, headache, extreme tiredness and fatigue, depression, blurring of vision, aggressive behavior, involuntary tremor in hands and finger, vomiting, loss of appetite, muscle twitching, profuse sweating, palpitation, dry mouth and reduced secretion of saliva, impairment of memory and confusion.
Herbal Remedies To Ease Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
There is a risk of xanax withdrawal symptoms if you discontinue the drug suddenly. Thus it is important to taper off the dose gradually before completely discontinuing xanax. Herbal remedies are effective in dealing with some of the withdrawal symptoms. These herbs work in many ways. For example some herbs have potential quality to calm and relax the brain which helps a person to sleep well.
Use of certain drug can alleviate nausea and vomiting or stomach cramps. Here are few useful herbs to deal with xanax withdrawal symptoms:
- Passionflower: Also known as passiflora incranata has a quieting effect on the nervous system. The chemical present in this herb such as maltol and ethylmaltol helps to relax and cool the nervous system. Passionflower is effective herbal remedy for sleeplessness or insomnia caused due to withdrawal of xanax.
- Chamomile: Chamomile is used since centuries as a herbal remedy to treat stomach complaints. The flower of this herb is utilized for several medicinal benefits. The chemical component of this herb make it a great nervine, antispasmodic and carminative remedy. It is especially useful when the symptoms of xanax withdrawal are related to stomach and digestive system. It relieves intestinal cramps, gasses, appetite loss, anxiety that develop due to xanax withdrawal.
- Bacopa: Bacopa is an Indian herb usually used to treat anxiety and memory loss. It is considered to be a brain tonic by many herbalists. Bacopa helps to strengthen concentration and memory. The alkaloids present in bacopa are useful as a tonic to treat absent mindedness which is often present after sudden withdrawal of xanax.
Person should always consult a qualified herbal practitioner before taking any herbal remedies about its uses and dosage as many herbs can have side effects.