Xanax Addiction: Understanding Benzodiazepine Dependence and Finding Treatment in Charlotte, NC
Xanax (alprazolam) is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications in the United States—and one of the most frequently misused benzodiazepines. Across Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and throughout North Carolina, thousands of people struggle with Xanax dependence, often starting with a legitimate prescription for anxiety or panic disorder.
At Nova Transformations, our Charlotte-based addiction treatment center has seen a concerning increase in benzodiazepine addiction. What many people don’t realize is that Xanax can cause severe physical dependence—even when taken exactly as prescribed—and withdrawal can be life-threatening without proper medical management.
This comprehensive guide explores what Xanax is, why it’s so addictive, the serious dangers of benzodiazepine withdrawal, warning signs of dependence, health consequences, and the evidence-based treatment options available right here in Charlotte, NC. Whether you’re concerned about your own Xanax use, worried about a loved one, or seeking to understand this growing crisis, this article provides essential information.
Americans misused benzodiazepines like Xanax in 2023 (SAMHSA National Survey)
What is Xanax?
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, a benzodiazepine medication prescribed primarily for anxiety disorders and panic disorder. It belongs to the same class of drugs as Valium, Ativan, Klonopin, and other benzodiazepines.
How Xanax Works
Xanax enhances the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. This produces:
- Anti-anxiety effects: Reduced worry, nervousness, and panic
- Sedation: Calming, drowsiness, relaxation
- Muscle relaxation: Reduced physical tension
- Anticonvulsant effects: Prevention of seizures
- Amnesia: Impaired memory formation (can cause blackouts at higher doses)
Common Benzodiazepines
| Medication | Brand Name | Onset | Duration | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alprazolam | Xanax | Fast (20-30 min) | Short (4-6 hours) | Panic disorder, anxiety |
| Clonazepam | Klonopin | Medium (1 hour) | Long (18-50 hours) | Panic disorder, seizures |
| Lorazepam | Ativan | Fast (30-60 min) | Medium (10-20 hours) | Anxiety, insomnia |
| Diazepam | Valium | Fast (30-60 min) | Very long (20-100 hours) | Anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures |
Xanax’s fast onset and short duration make it particularly prone to abuse and dependence.
💡 Why Xanax is Prescribed
Legitimate medical uses of Xanax include:
- Panic disorder: Frequent, unexpected panic attacks
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD): Short-term use only
- Anxiety associated with depression: Temporary relief while antidepressants take effect
Medical guidelines recommend benzodiazepines for short-term use only (2-4 weeks) due to addiction risk. Long-term benzodiazepine prescriptions for chronic anxiety are generally not recommended, as tolerance and dependence develop quickly.
Why Xanax is So Addictive
Several factors make Xanax uniquely addictive among benzodiazepines:
- Rapid onset: Effects are felt within 20-30 minutes, creating immediate relief and reinforcing use
- Short half-life: Xanax leaves the system quickly (6-27 hours), leading to between-dose anxiety and cravings
- Powerful effects: Xanax is more potent milligram-for-milligram than many other benzos
- Euphoria: Beyond anxiety relief, Xanax can produce pleasurable feelings
- Physical dependence: The brain adapts quickly, requiring Xanax to function normally
- Rebound anxiety: Anxiety worsens between doses, creating a vicious cycle
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), benzodiazepines like Xanax are Schedule IV controlled substances, indicating accepted medical use but significant abuse potential.
Signs and Symptoms of Xanax Addiction
Recognizing Xanax addiction can be challenging because many people start with a legitimate prescription. However, there are clear warning signs that use has become problematic.
Behavioral Signs of Xanax Addiction
- Taking more than prescribed: Using higher doses or more frequent doses than directed
- Running out early: Consistently needing refills before scheduled
- Doctor shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to get multiple prescriptions
- Buying without prescription: Obtaining Xanax from friends, family, or dealers
- Preoccupation with supply: Anxiety about running out, hoarding pills
- Failed attempts to quit: Wanting to stop but unable to
- Continued use despite problems: Using even when causing relationship, work, or legal issues
- Combining with other substances: Mixing Xanax with alcohol, opioids, or other drugs (extremely dangerous)
- Social isolation: Withdrawing from activities and relationships
- Neglecting responsibilities: Poor performance at work or school
- Deceptive behavior: Lying about use, hiding pills
- Defensive reactions: Anger when questioned about Xanax use
Physical Signs and Symptoms
During Use:
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Slurred speech
- Poor coordination and balance
- Dizziness and lightheadedness
- Confusion and disorientation
- Memory problems and blackouts
- Slowed reflexes and reaction time
- Blurred vision
- Weakness and fatigue
Tolerance Development:
Needing higher doses to achieve the same anti-anxiety effect—a hallmark of physical dependence that can develop within weeks of regular use.
Withdrawal Symptoms:
Experiencing symptoms when doses are missed or reduced:
- Anxiety and panic (often worse than baseline)
- Tremors and shaking
- Sweating
- Rapid heart rate
- Insomnia
- Nausea
- Muscle tension and aches
- Irritability and mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Hypersensitivity to light, sound, and touch
Psychological and Cognitive Effects
- Memory impairment (anterograde amnesia)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion and disorientation
- Mood swings
- Depression
- Increased anxiety between doses (rebound anxiety)
- Paradoxical reactions (agitation, aggression, disinhibition)
- Emotional numbness
🚨 Xanax Withdrawal Can Be Fatal
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is one of only two substance withdrawals that can cause death (the other being alcohol). Complications include:
- Seizures: Can occur suddenly, even in people with no seizure history
- Delirium: Severe confusion, hallucinations, and disorientation
- Cardiovascular complications: Dangerous changes in blood pressure and heart rate
- Catatonia: In severe cases, complete unresponsiveness
- Death: From seizures or cardiovascular collapse
Never quit Xanax or any benzodiazepine cold turkey, especially if you’ve been using regularly or at high doses. Always seek medical supervision. Contact Nova Transformations at (704) 961-9322 for safe detox coordination in Charlotte.
High-Risk Behaviors
- Driving impaired: Xanax significantly impairs driving ability; DUI is common
- Mixing with alcohol: Extremely dangerous combination that can cause respiratory depression and death
- Combining with opioids: Deadly combination; involved in many overdose deaths
- Using counterfeit pills: Street Xanax may contain fentanyl or other dangerous substances
The Dangerous Reality of Xanax Withdrawal
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is medically serious and requires professional management. Understanding the timeline and risks is crucial.
Xanax Withdrawal Timeline
| Timeframe | Symptoms | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| 6-12 Hours | Early anxiety, restlessness, insomnia | Mild to Moderate |
| 1-4 Days | Peak symptoms: severe anxiety, tremors, sweating, rapid heart rate, insomnia, nausea, potential seizures | Severe (MOST DANGEROUS) |
| 5-14 Days | Gradual improvement but persistent anxiety, insomnia, mood swings, cognitive difficulties | Moderate |
| 2-8 Weeks | Protracted withdrawal: anxiety, depression, insomnia, irritability, concentration problems | Mild to Moderate |
| Months+ | Post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS): intermittent anxiety, insomnia, mood fluctuations | Mild (but persistent) |
Why Medical Detox is Essential
Professional, medically-supervised benzodiazepine detox typically involves:
- Gradual tapering: Slowly reducing dose over weeks to months to prevent severe withdrawal
- Medication management: Using longer-acting benzodiazepines (like Valium) to ease withdrawal
- Medical monitoring: 24/7 observation for complications
- Symptom management: Medications for anxiety, insomnia, and other symptoms
- Nutritional support: Proper hydration and nutrition
- Psychological support: Therapy and counseling during the difficult process
A proper benzodiazepine taper can take several weeks to several months depending on the dose and duration of use. This is not a weakness—it’s medical necessity.
⚠️ The “Cold Turkey” Myth
Some people believe they can quit Xanax “cold turkey” through willpower. This is extremely dangerous and potentially fatal. Benzodiazepine withdrawal requires medical management. Even people who have successfully quit other drugs on their own should never attempt to quit benzodiazepines without medical supervision.
Health Consequences of Xanax Abuse
Long-term Xanax use and abuse cause serious physical, cognitive, and psychological damage.
Cognitive Impairment
- Memory problems: Both short-term and long-term memory impairment
- Dementia risk: Studies link long-term benzodiazepine use to increased dementia risk
- Processing speed: Slowed thinking and reaction time
- Executive function: Difficulty with planning, decision-making, problem-solving
- Learning difficulties: Impaired ability to form new memories
Some cognitive effects may persist even after stopping use, particularly in long-term users.
Physical Health Problems
- Respiratory depression: Especially when combined with opioids or alcohol
- Increased fall risk: Leading to injuries, fractures (particularly in elderly)
- Motor vehicle accidents: Impaired driving ability
- Sleep disruption: Paradoxically, long-term use worsens sleep quality
- Weight changes
- Digestive problems
- Weakened immune system
Mental Health Deterioration
- Worsening anxiety: Rebound anxiety between doses; baseline anxiety worsens over time
- Depression: Benzodiazepines can trigger or worsen depression
- Emotional blunting: Reduced ability to experience emotions
- Increased suicide risk: Particularly during withdrawal
- Paradoxical reactions: Increased aggression, impulsivity, disinhibition
Overdose Risk
While benzodiazepine-only overdose is rarely fatal, the risk increases dramatically when combined with:
- Alcohol: Both are CNS depressants; combination can cause respiratory failure
- Opioids: Extremely dangerous; involved in majority of benzodiazepine-related deaths
- Other sedatives: Sleeping pills, barbiturates, other benzos
Deaths involving benzodiazepines in the United States in 2021 (NIDA)
Counterfeit Xanax: A Growing Danger
Street-purchased “Xanax” pills may contain:
- Fentanyl: Powerful opioid causing numerous overdose deaths
- Other benzodiazepines: In unknown, dangerous doses
- Research chemicals: Untested substances with unknown effects
- No active ingredient: Providing no relief but perpetuating seeking behavior
Across Charlotte and North Carolina, fake Xanax pills containing fentanyl have caused numerous deaths.
📍 Benzodiazepine Crisis in Charlotte, NC
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County face significant challenges with benzodiazepine misuse:
- High prescription rates: North Carolina has substantial benzodiazepine prescribing
- Emergency visits: Atrium Health and Novant facilities treat benzodiazepine-related emergencies regularly
- Polysubstance deaths: Many opioid overdose deaths in Charlotte involve benzodiazepines
- Counterfeit pills: CMPD has seized numerous fake Xanax pills containing fentanyl
- DUI arrests: Benzodiazepine impairment is common in DUI cases
- Treatment demand: Facilities like Nova Transformations see consistent need for benzodiazepine addiction treatment
If you’re struggling with Xanax or benzodiazepine dependence in Charlotte, help is available locally.
Comprehensive Xanax Addiction Treatment at Nova Transformations
Recovery from benzodiazepine addiction requires specialized care due to the dangers of withdrawal. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, NC, we provide evidence-based treatment specifically designed for Xanax and benzodiazepine dependence.
Our Charlotte Benzodiazepine Treatment Programs
1. Medical Detox Coordination
Safe benzodiazepine withdrawal is the critical first step:
- Medical evaluation: Assessing dependence severity, medical history, risk factors
- Coordination with detox facilities: We work with trusted medical detox centers in Charlotte
- Tapering protocol: Gradual dose reduction over appropriate timeframe
- Medical monitoring: 24/7 supervision during acute withdrawal
- Symptom management: Medications for anxiety, insomnia, and other symptoms
- Seizure prevention: Protocols to prevent life-threatening complications
Never attempt to detox from benzodiazepines on your own. The risks are too serious.
2. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our Partial Hospitalization Program in Charlotte provides intensive treatment after medical detox:
- 20-30 hours of treatment weekly
- Daily structured programming (5-6 days per week)
- Individual therapy addressing anxiety and underlying issues
- Group therapy with others in benzodiazepine recovery
- Psychiatric services for medication evaluation
- Anxiety management training (non-medication approaches)
- Family education and therapy
3. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our Intensive Outpatient Program in Charlotte offers continued support:
- 9-12 hours of treatment weekly
- Individual therapy: CBT, DBT, and other evidence-based approaches
- Group therapy: Process groups, education, skills training
- Relapse prevention: Managing triggers and cravings
- Alternative anxiety management: Learning to manage anxiety without medication
- Life skills development: Stress management, emotional regulation
4. Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Most people with benzodiazepine dependence have underlying anxiety disorders. Our dual diagnosis treatment in North Carolina addresses both:
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
- Panic Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- PTSD and trauma
- Depression
- Co-occurring substance use disorders
Treating the underlying anxiety disorder is essential for preventing relapse and building lasting recovery.
✨ Why Choose Nova Transformations for Benzodiazepine Treatment?
- Specialized expertise: Understanding of benzodiazepine withdrawal and recovery
- Safe detox coordination: Working with medical facilities for proper tapering
- Comprehensive anxiety treatment: Addressing the root cause, not just the addiction
- Evidence-based therapies: CBT, DBT, exposure therapy, mindfulness
- Medication evaluation: Non-addictive alternatives like SSRIs, buspirone
- Compassionate care: Understanding that many became dependent while following doctor’s orders
- Family involvement: Education and support for loved ones
- Continuing care: Long-term support for sustained recovery
- Charlotte location: Convenient access throughout Mecklenburg County
- Insurance accepted: Working with most major providers
Alternative Anxiety Treatments
Recovery from benzodiazepines involves learning new ways to manage anxiety:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
The gold standard for anxiety disorders, CBT teaches you to identify and change anxious thought patterns and behaviors. Research shows CBT is as effective as medication for many anxiety disorders—without addiction risk.
Exposure Therapy
For panic disorder and phobias, gradual exposure to feared situations reduces anxiety over time.
Mindfulness-Based Therapies
Mindfulness meditation, yoga, and similar practices reduce anxiety and improve emotional regulation.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Teaches distress tolerance, emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness—all crucial for anxiety management.
Non-Addictive Medications
- SSRIs/SNRIs: Antidepressants (Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac, Effexor) are first-line treatment for chronic anxiety
- Buspirone: Non-addictive anti-anxiety medication
- Hydroxyzine: Antihistamine with anti-anxiety properties
- Propranolol: Beta-blocker for physical anxiety symptoms
- Gabapentin: Sometimes used for anxiety (though requires monitoring)
Lifestyle Approaches
- Regular exercise (highly effective for anxiety)
- Sleep hygiene
- Nutrition and blood sugar regulation
- Caffeine and alcohol reduction
- Stress management techniques
- Social connection and support
Break Free from Xanax Addiction in Charlotte Today
You don’t have to live in fear of withdrawal or continue the cycle of benzodiazepine dependence. The expert team at Nova Transformations in Charlotte provides safe, compassionate care for Xanax and benzodiazepine addiction—including proper medical detox coordination and comprehensive treatment for underlying anxiety.
We accept most major insurance plans. Unfortunately, we do not accept Medicare or Medicaid at this time.
Confidential assessment available. Don’t risk dangerous withdrawal—get professional help today.
Getting Help for Xanax Dependence in Charlotte
If you or someone you love is dependent on Xanax or benzodiazepines in Charlotte, taking action can be life-saving.
🔑 Steps to Recovery from Benzodiazepine Dependence
- Acknowledge the problem: Recognizing dependence is the first step
- Don’t quit cold turkey: This is dangerous—seek medical help
- Contact Nova Transformations: Call (704) 961-9322 for assessment
- Medical evaluation: Determine appropriate tapering schedule
- Begin medically-supervised detox: Gradual tapering under medical care
- Start treatment: PHP or IOP based on your needs
- Address underlying anxiety: Learn non-medication coping strategies
- Explore medication alternatives: Non-addictive options for anxiety
- Build support network: Therapy, support groups, family
- Practice self-care: Exercise, sleep, stress management
- Commit to continuing care: Recovery is a process
What to Expect When You Call
Our admissions team understands benzodiazepine dependence and makes the process comfortable:
- Confidential discussion: Share your situation without judgment
- Assessment questions: Dosage, duration of use, previous attempts to quit
- Detox planning: Determining if inpatient detox is needed or if outpatient taper is appropriate
- Treatment recommendations: Which program level fits your needs
- Insurance verification: Checking coverage while you’re on the phone
- Coordination of care: Arranging medical detox if needed
- Next steps: Clear plan for beginning treatment
For Families: How to Help
If someone you care about in Charlotte is struggling with Xanax dependence:
- Understand it’s medical: Benzodiazepine dependence can develop even with prescribed use
- Educate yourself: Learn about withdrawal dangers and treatment needs
- Express concern gently: Many people feel shame about prescription drug dependence
- Don’t enable: Avoid providing money for pills or making excuses
- Emphasize safety: Stress that quitting alone is dangerous
- Offer to help: Assist with finding treatment, attending appointments
- Be patient: Tapering takes time; this isn’t weakness
- Support anxiety treatment: Understand underlying anxiety needs attention too
- Seek support: Family therapy, Al-Anon, or counseling for yourself
Frequently Asked Questions About Xanax Addiction
Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. It’s highly addictive for several reasons: it produces rapid, powerful relief from anxiety along with euphoria and relaxation within 20-30 minutes of taking it; it has a short half-life meaning effects wear off quickly (4-6 hours), leading to frequent dosing and between-dose anxiety that drives repeated use; it causes physical dependence with regular use—even at prescribed doses—as the brain adapts and requires Xanax to function normally; it produces severe, potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms when stopped abruptly; and tolerance develops quickly, requiring higher doses over time to achieve the same effect. Xanax affects GABA receptors in the brain (the same neurotransmitter system impacted by alcohol), making it extremely habit-forming. Many people become dependent on Xanax even when taking it exactly as their doctor prescribed, which is why medical guidelines recommend short-term use only (2-4 weeks maximum).
Yes, benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening and is one of only two substance withdrawals that can cause death (the other being alcohol withdrawal). Severe Xanax withdrawal can cause seizures which may be fatal, delirium with severe confusion and hallucinations, dangerous elevations in blood pressure and heart rate, catatonia in extreme cases, and rarely, death from seizures or cardiovascular complications. Withdrawal is especially dangerous for those who have taken high doses (more than 4mg daily), used Xanax for extended periods (months to years), combined it with alcohol or other substances, have underlying medical conditions particularly neurological or cardiovascular, or have a personal or family history of seizures. This is why medically-supervised detoxification with gradual tapering is absolutely critical for anyone dependent on Xanax or other benzodiazepines. The tapering process typically takes several weeks to several months depending on dosage and duration of use. Never attempt to quit Xanax cold turkey or reduce your dose rapidly without medical supervision. Seek professional help at facilities like Nova Transformations in Charlotte that can coordinate safe, medically-managed withdrawal. Call (704) 961-9322 for guidance.
Signs of Xanax addiction include behavioral signs like taking more than prescribed or more frequently than directed, running out of prescriptions early and needing early refills, doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors to get multiple prescriptions), buying Xanax without a prescription from friends, family, or dealers, preoccupation with supply and anxiety about running low on pills, inability to function without Xanax, continued use despite negative consequences to health, relationships, or work, and combining Xanax with alcohol or other drugs (extremely dangerous). Physical signs include drowsiness and sedation, slurred speech, poor coordination and balance, confusion and memory problems including blackouts, mood swings and irritability, and experiencing withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, tremors, sweating, or insomnia when doses are missed. Psychological signs include escalating anxiety between doses (rebound anxiety), using Xanax to cope with any stress or discomfort, panic at the thought of being without Xanax, and continued use even when wanting to stop. If you recognize these signs in yourself or a loved one in Charlotte, professional evaluation is important. Many people with Xanax dependence started with a legitimate prescription and feel shame about becoming dependent—but this is a medical condition, not a moral failing, and treatment is available.
Yes, Nova Transformations provides comprehensive, specialized benzodiazepine and Xanax addiction treatment in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our programs specifically designed for benzodiazepine dependence include coordination with medical detox facilities for safe, medically-supervised withdrawal management (benzodiazepine withdrawal requires professional medical management and gradual tapering), Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP) with 20-30 hours of weekly intensive treatment, Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) with 9-12 hours of weekly structured care, individual therapy using proven approaches like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specifically for anxiety disorders, group therapy with others recovering from benzodiazepine dependence, dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring anxiety disorders, panic disorder, PTSD, depression, or other mental health conditions, alternative anxiety management strategies including CBT, mindfulness, exposure therapy, and stress reduction techniques, medication evaluation for non-addictive anxiety treatment options (SSRIs, buspirone, etc.), family therapy and education, and comprehensive aftercare planning. We understand that many people with Xanax dependence have legitimate anxiety disorders and need compassionate, non-judgmental care that addresses both the addiction and the underlying condition. Call (704) 961-9322 for a confidential assessment.
Xanax withdrawal timeline varies significantly based on dosage, duration of use, tapering method, and individual factors. With abrupt cessation (not recommended), acute withdrawal includes early symptoms starting 6-12 hours after last dose (anxiety, restlessness, insomnia), peak symptoms at 1-4 days (severe anxiety, tremors, sweating, rapid heart rate, potential seizures—medical emergency), and gradual improvement over 1-2 weeks as acute symptoms subside. However, protracted withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) can persist for weeks to months with symptoms including anxiety, depression, insomnia, cognitive difficulties, mood fluctuations, and heightened sensitivity to stress. With proper medical tapering (the recommended approach), withdrawal symptoms are significantly reduced but the tapering process typically takes several weeks to several months depending on dosage and duration of use. A slow, medically-supervised taper is the safest approach and dramatically improves comfort, safety, and success rates. The general guideline is reducing by about 10-25% every 1-2 weeks, but this varies based on individual response. Some people experience minimal discomfort with proper tapering, while others need even slower reductions. Never attempt rapid detox or cold turkey cessation from benzodiazepines—the risks are too serious. Work with medical professionals who understand benzodiazepine withdrawal management.
Xanax can be prescribed short-term for anxiety and panic disorders, but it should only be used for 2-4 weeks maximum due to its high addiction potential and rapid development of tolerance and dependence. Medical guidelines do not recommend long-term benzodiazepine use for chronic anxiety. Safer, more effective long-term alternatives include SSRIs and SNRIs which are first-line medications for anxiety disorders (Lexapro, Zoloft, Prozac, Effexor, Cymbalta), buspirone which is a non-addictive anti-anxiety medication, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which research shows is as effective as medication for many anxiety disorders without any addiction risk, other evidence-based therapies like exposure therapy, DBT, and mindfulness-based approaches, and lifestyle changes including regular exercise (highly effective for anxiety), sleep hygiene, nutrition, and stress management. If you’re currently taking Xanax long-term, don’t stop suddenly as this is dangerous. Instead, work with your doctor to develop a gradual tapering plan while exploring alternative treatments. Many people find that once they’re off benzodiazepines, alternative treatments work better because benzos can actually worsen anxiety over time. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, we help clients safely transition from benzodiazepines to evidence-based anxiety management approaches while treating any underlying addiction. Call (704) 961-9322 to discuss your options.
Mixing Xanax with alcohol or opioids is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. Xanax and alcohol are both central nervous system (CNS) depressants that slow breathing, heart rate, and brain function. When combined, these effects are amplified exponentially, not just additively, leading to severe respiratory depression (dangerously slowed breathing), loss of consciousness, coma, and death from respiratory failure. Even small amounts of each can be deadly when combined. Xanax and opioids create the same deadly combination. The majority of benzodiazepine-related deaths involve opioids. This combination causes profound respiratory depression, sedation so deep that breathing stops, and is responsible for thousands of overdose deaths annually. Warning signs of overdose from this combination include extreme drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, blue lips or fingernails, slow or shallow breathing, unresponsiveness, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately. In North Carolina, Good Samaritan laws provide limited legal protection for people who seek emergency help for overdoses. Never mix Xanax with alcohol, opioids, or other CNS depressants. If you’re struggling with polysubstance use involving benzodiazepines, professional treatment at Nova Transformations in Charlotte can help. We treat co-occurring substance use disorders with comprehensive care.
References and Resources
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). (2024). Benzodiazepines Fact Sheet. Retrieved from https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/benzodiazepines
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2023). National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/data-we-collect/nsduh-national-survey-drug-use-and-health
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2024). Prescription CNS Depressants DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-cns-depressants
- Lader, M. (2011). Benzodiazepines revisited—will we ever learn? Addiction, 106(12), 2086-2109.
- Ashton, H. (2005). The diagnosis and management of benzodiazepine dependence. Current Opinion in Psychiatry, 18(3), 249-255.
- Olfson, M., King, M., & Schoenbaum, M. (2015). Benzodiazepine use in the United States. JAMA Psychiatry, 72(2), 136-142.
- Billioti de Gage, S., Moride, Y., Ducruet, T., et al. (2014). Benzodiazepine use and risk of Alzheimer’s disease. BMJ, 349, g5205.
- Baldwin, D. S., Anderson, I. M., Nutt, D. J., et al. (2014). Evidence-based pharmacological treatment of anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 28(5), 403-439.
- Brett, J., & Murnion, B. (2015). Management of benzodiazepine misuse and dependence. Australian Prescriber, 38(5), 152-155.
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Fifth Edition. Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
Additional Charlotte-Area Resources:
- Nova Transformations Charlotte: (704) 961-9322
- Benzodiazepine Information Coalition: https://www.benzoinfo.com/
- Narcotics Anonymous Charlotte: https://charlottena.org/
- SMART Recovery Charlotte: Science-based support groups
- Mecklenburg County Public Health: https://www.mecknc.gov/HealthDepartment/
- Crisis Line (24/7): Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222 (for overdose emergencies)
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be life-threatening and requires medical supervision. Never stop taking Xanax or any benzodiazepine abruptly without medical guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about benzodiazepine use or treatment.
Last Updated: October 30, 2025 | Author: Nova Transformations Clinical Team | Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
