In a systematic review of research, Charlson et al. could not find conclusive evidence supporting increased risk of mortality in BZD users [43]. In their analysis of six retrospective studies, half of them showed no significant relationship between BZD use and mortality. One of the study’s limitations is the inability to collect data that differentiate mortality correlation with illicit BZD use from the use of prescribed pills. Benzodiazepines are often coingested with other substances, such as opioids and alcohol, in overdose. However, there are many other potential interactions, so a drug interaction screen with your pharmacist or doctor is needed.
1. Indications for Benzodiazepines
In many of the spontaneous case reports of adverse behavioral effects, patients were receiving other CNS drugs concomitantly and/or were described as having underlying psychiatric conditions. Should any of the above events occur, alprazolam should be discontinued. Instances of irritability, hostility, and intrusive thoughts have been reported during discontinuation of alprazolam in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder. BZDs are most commonly used for panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) regarding its indications for anxiety. In terms of anxiety, BZDs are used as a bridge when starting another medication or as abortive therapy for panic attacks. Given concerns for use dependence and withdrawal, SSRIs and antidepressants have been made mainstay therapy for these conditions.
Medical Conditions
These medications treat conditions based on which effect they cause. While there are separate types because they have different primary effects, there’s a lot of overlap between them. For example, most benzodiazepines have a sedative effect in addition to their primary effect. The strength and duration of action of benzodiazepines are important in what conditions they treat. Short-term or emergency conditions usually merit the use of stronger, short-acting benzodiazepines.
Panic disorders
Misusing Xanax can cause addiction, overdose, and possibly death. The connection between anger and mood disorders, such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, adderall isn’t well studied. One study reported that people with mood disorders may have greater feelings of anger and may not respond as well to mood disorder treatments.
- Once you’ve ruled out these other factors as the cause of your constipation, it’s a good idea to contact your doctor.
- They can give you tips on how to manage any side effects that may concern or bother you.
- Do not take itraconazole (Sporanox®) or ketoconazole (Nizoral®) while you are using this medicine.
- According to certain 2019 recommendations, people with severe anxiety or panic attack disorder should be prescribed the lowest effective dose of benzodiazepines for no more than 2 to 4 weeks.
Xanax: 7 things you should know
Xanax has boxed warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). If you have seizures while taking Xanax, it’s important to tell your https://sober-home.org/know-the-difference-between-ethanol-and-alcohol/ medical professional right away. We recommend that you tell your medical professional about any sexual side effects you have with Xanax.
Side Effects of Benzodiazepines
The best way to deal with constipation is to address the source. However, multiple sources could exist, and it might also be difficult https://rehabliving.net/how-to-take-suboxone-tablets/ for some people to pinpoint the exact cause of constipation. Constipation is common, especially in adults over the age of 60 years.
Some of these have approval in other countries, and some don’t have approval anywhere. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Side effects to Xanax Tablets, if they occur, are generally observed at the beginning of therapy and usually disappear upon continued medication. In the usual patient, the most frequent side effects are likely to be an extension of the pharmacological activity of alprazolam, eg, drowsiness or lightheadedness. By Marcia PurseMarcia Purse is a mental health writer and bipolar disorder advocate who brings strong research skills and personal experiences to her writing. If you have experienced these or any other concerning side effects as a result of withdrawing from Xanax, seek medical attention right away.
It is well known that anxiety, especially chronic one, increases smooth muscles tension throughout the human body, including the GI system. It is commonly believed that this is centrally mediated though we do not have full understanding of this process. Benzodiazepine tetrazepam (used as muscle relaxant) relieved spasm of isolated rat duodenum and guinea pig ileum [10], which suggests peripheral involvement. On the other hand, intravenous diazepam decreased the pressure of lower esophageal sphincter in humans [11] that may suggest both peripheral (myogenic influence) and central (anxiety) mechanism.
However, the use of medications should be individualized, and potential risks and benefits should be carefully considered. It is essential for individuals experiencing benzo belly to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. That’s because some medications may interact with benzodiazepines or worsen withdrawal symptoms. Non-pharmacological strategies such as hydration, gentle exercise, and stress-reduction techniques are also recommended to support the body’s recovery during withdrawal. Given the potential for long-lasting and distressing symptoms, it is crucial for individuals experiencing benzo Belly to seek professional medical advice. A healthcare provider can offer guidance on safely tapering off benzodiazepines and provide support for managing withdrawal symptoms.
If you have withdrawal symptoms from lowering your dose or stopping Xanax, be sure to tell your doctor. Some people report an increased sex drive, but others report a decrease. Doctors usually prescribe lower doses of Xanax for older adults and may increase the dose slowly if needed. An important side effect to consider in older adults is trouble with balance and coordination.