Xanax, also called alprazolam, is a class of drug called a benzodiazepine. This type of drug enhances the substance known as GABA, which promotes calm feelings. Xanax is most often prescribed to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and insomnia. As a prescription medication, alprazolam has been an effective treatment for anxiety disorders that has helped countless people live healthy, productive lives.
However, because its use causes calm feelings of well-being, and causes them quickly, Xanax dependency and abuse have become widespread. In this guide, we’ll explore the appeal of Xanax bar and the dangers of their misuse.
Understanding Xanax Bars
The Appeal of Benzodiazepine Bars
Sometimes referred to as “planks,” “z-bars,” “zanies,” “bars,” or “blue footballs,” bars of Xanax got their name from the pill’s shape: a long plank-like tablet. They’re prescribed by doctors to give patients flexibility in doses. The bars are easier to break into smaller pieces, so patients can get the exact dose they need.
Subdividing the large-dose bars gives patients the ability to use Xanax to treat situational anxiety such as social anxiety, phobias, and panic attacks.
Different Types of Bars
There are four types of alprazolam planks. While they all have the same bar shape, they come in different colors.
- Green: Indicates a 2mg dose of Xanax.
- White: A 2mg dose made by a different manufacturer than the green bars.
- Yellow: A 2mg generic alprazolam. Also referred to as a “school bus.”
- Blue, purple, and pink: Indicates a dose ranging from 0.5m to 3mg.
The Risks of Addiction and Overdose
While Xanax is effective in the treatment of anxiety and insomnia, it also releases dopamine. Dopamine is a hormone that affects the pleasure systems in the brain. Combined with its fast-acting nature, this effect leaves people vulnerable to Xanax abuse and addiction.
Signs of Xanax Overdose
While it’s possible to overdose on Xanax bars by themselves, the medication’s status as a popular party drug means users typically mix it with other substances. Xanax is most commonly abused at the same time as alcohol, opiates, or cocaine.
It’s not always easy to spot the signs of Xanax overdose as it typically resembles alcohol intoxication to start. Early symptoms of overdose include:
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Blurred vision
- Feelings of nausea
- Lower respiratory rate
- Loose, floppy limbs
- Gurgling sounds while breathing
- Poor balance or coordination
- Passing out or coma
- Feelings of lightheadedness
Side Effects of Long-Term Xanax Abuse
The risks of Xanax abuse aren’t limited to overdose. Regularly misusing Xanax causes several side effects as well.
- Depression and irritability
- Drowsiness or a lack of energy
- Headaches, blurred vision, and dizzy spells
- Reduced libido
- Muscle cramps and twitching
- Insomnia and abnormal dreaming
- Digestive issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Inconsistent appetite, weight loss, or weight gain
Without Xanax’s calming effects, many people wouldn’t be able to live functional, healthy lives. However, its side effects and addictiveness make it dangerous to take without the supervision of a medical professional. Xanax shouldn’t ever be used without a prescription or recreationally as a party drug as its misuse comes with serious risks and side effects.
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