It’s assuring to know that there’s a drug that can help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. These drugs, however, are not without side effects. Their calming properties can lead people to misuse and abuse them.
One of these drugs is Xanax, a trusted brand name for of relief. Used as prescribed, Xanax can effectively treat anxiety and panic disorders. But when abused or misused, it can lead to physical and psychological dependence that could result in addiction.
Blue Xanax is a variation of the drug, most recognizable by its blue color. This blog post explores the potential side effects and the addiction potential associated with blue Xanax.
Understanding Xanax
Xanax is the name of a brand of alprazolam pills used for treating generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).
Xanax is the most prescribed anti-anxiety medication, well known in many households. The brand name became synonymous with its generic forms, leading most people to refer to alprazolam as “Xanax”.
The drug alprazolam belongs to the benzodiazepine family, a type of central nervous system depressant used to treat severe pain and insomnia and induce calm and relaxation. Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety disorders, accounting for roughly 66 million yearly prescriptions in the U.S.
A benzodiazepine drug increases the effects of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter in the brain that reduces activity in some brain regions related to fear and anxiety. It also slows down some central nervous system functions, such as heart rate and breathing. It helps induce sedation and sleep, relieve stress, and prevent seizures.
Benzodiazepines are Schedule IV drugs, meaning they have a low potential for abuse and physical dependence.
Comparing Xanax Bars With Xanax Pills
Xanax usually comes in two forms: bars and pills. The shape typically indicates the prescription dosage, a valuable aid for doctors, pharmacists, and users.
Xanax is a potent medication, so it’s important to understand how much dosage comes in its pill and tablet forms.
Both the Xanax tablet and the Xanax pill are produced with lines or grooves built in to help take smaller doses that at the full tablet or pill.
The most common form prescribed by doctors for treating anxiety disorders is the pill, a standard one-milligram dosage of alprazolam. These can be divided once, each half containing a half a milligram of alprazolam. Because of its oval shape, users commonly refer to the pill as a “football” Xanax.
The bar form, prescribed for more severe cases of anxiety and panic attacks, contains a two-milligram dose of alprazolam. It can be dived into two one-milligram doses of alprazolam, or cut it into four pieces, each quarter containing one-forth of a milligram.
Doctors usually first prescribe a one-fourth milligram dosage. Over time, the patient’s body will get accustomed to the drug, and the doctor may increase the dosage to achieve the desired effects. Generally, the maximum daily prescription dosage of alprazolam is four milligrams, taken in three or four doses.
Differentiating Xanax Bars
Aside from its shape, you can also differentiate Xanax by looking at its color. Whether in a bar or pill form, the different colors of Xanax represent not only the dosage strength but also the pharmaceutical companies that manufactured them.
Here are some of the common colors of Xanax pills or bars.
Blue Xanax Bar
Blue Xanax is one of the most common variations of Xanax. Blue Xanax bars come in a 2 mg dosage. However, blue Xanax pills are more common and contain a dosage of 1 mg. Because of their color and shape, blue Xanax pills are more popularly known as blue football alprazolam.
White Xanax Bar
White Xanax bars, commonly called “sticks,” are the most widely prescribed Xanax color. A white Xanax bar comes in the usual 2 mg dosage that users can stretch into four 0.25 doses. This medication’s high potency makes it very effective for treating anxiety and panic attacks. However, it can also be dangerous and addictive if not taken correctly.
Yellow Xanax Bar
The yellow Xanax bar is similar to a white Xanax bar in dosage and effects. Its nickname, “yellow school bus,” is derived from its yellow color and rectangular shape. While they both contain 2 mg of alprazolam, the color difference is attributed to the various pharmaceutical companies producing them.
Green Xanax Bar
The green Xanax bar is also a 2 mg dosage of alprazolam, and the green color indicates that a different manufacturer produces it. While it has the same potency and effects as the white and yellow Xanax bar, it can come in different shapes:
- An oval green Xanax pill contains 1 mg of alprazolam, also called the “green football”
- A green Xanax bar includes a dose of 2 mg; however, users can cut it into three segments, unlike other colored Xanax pills
- A triangular green Xanax pill is usually 3 mg of alprazolam, the highest dosage available
Orange Xanax Bar
The orange Xanax bar is also called “peach Xanax bar” or “orange alprazolam.” It is frequently oval shaped, with a low dose of 0.5 mg. It is ideal for treating less severe anxiety. Since this form contains a lower dosage, users may consume the whole bar without increasing the risk of overdosing.
Purple Xanax Bar
The purple Xanax bar has a 2 mg dosage of alprazolam and typically comes in an oval shape that users can split into two. Pfizer, a leading pharmaceutical company, usually manufactures it. Mylan Pharmaceuticals also produces a 2 mg round pill, with the code M A23 engraved on it.
Identifying Fake Xanax Bars or Pills
Since it’s a Schedule IV drug, Xanax is highly regulated and can only be bought with a valid prescription. However, it still comes with a low risk of dependency and abuse. The risk of addiction is much higher with fake Xanax.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), alprazolam is one of the most commonly encountered benzodiazepines illegally sold on the street. Xanax popularity has led to a rising number of fake Xanax bars and pills on the market, making it one of the most abused prescription drugs.
Fake Xanax bars and pills are usually created with counterfeit substances that can be even more dangerous than alprazolam. Users don’t know what ingredient are in street drugs, and are vulnerable to substances with unknown side effects.
On the street, other names for Xanax and other benzodiazepines include:
- Xan
- Xannies or Zannies
- Bars
- Ladders
- Footballs (blue footballs, green footballs, etc.)
- French fries
- Yellow school bus
- Z-bars or Zanbars
- Benzos
- White boys
- White girls
- Yellow boys
- Peaches
- Planks
- Upbars
- Bicycle parts
- Handlebars
- Totem poles
If you encounter these names when purchasing Xanax, you may be dealing with a fake drug. It’s crucial to avoid fake Xanax since it can be extra potent and could cause serious harm. Moreover, it may contain additional ingredients that can be dangerous, such as fentanyl and other opioids.
The Side Effects of Blue Xanax
Taking Xanax is an effective way to manage anxiety symptoms. Xanax relaxes the body and calms the mind by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and slowing down the central nervous system.
However, taking blue Xanax can still come with some side effects, which include:
- Shortness of breath
- Poor coordination
- Tremors
- Hypersensitivity to sound and light
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Mood swings
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Slurred speech
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory problems
- Stomachache
- Fatigue
- Depression
It’s critical not to take blue Xanax with other drugs, such as birth control, antibiotics, antidepressants, and cold medicine. If you’re taking any of these medications, you must inform your doctor before taking any form or color of Xanax.
The Addictive Potential of Blue Xanax
While prescribed Xanax is generally safe and effective for short-term use, some users may take a dosage beyond their doctor’s prescription to strengthen or prolong its calming effect. Some users also consume Xanax recreationally. These forms of Xanax abuse can cause an increased tolerance to the drug, which leads to Xanax dependency.
When users become dependent on Xanax, they may find it challenging to function normally. Because of this, they may turn to abuse Xanax more frequently, leading to a higher risk of addiction. Xanax drug abuse can also lead to an overdose, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Because of its addiction potential, blue Xanax should only be taken as prescribed by your doctor. If you’re struggling with blue Xanax abuse, it’s essential to seek help immediately.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms
Users who frequently abuse Xanax may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly lessen their usual dosage or quit taking the drug, which can affect them physically and mentally.
Some of the most common physical Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Body pains
- Blurred vision
- Nausea and vomiting
- Intense sweating
- Chills or tremors
- Seizures
Additionally, psychological Xanax withdrawal symptoms include:
- Increased anxiety
- Agitation and irritability
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Insomnia
- Panic attacks
- Hallucinations
Do not take these symptoms lightly and do not wait for severe withdrawal symptoms before considering professional help. If you are experiencing any withdrawal symptoms mentioned above, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately.
Get Help at La Hacienda for Blue Xanax Addiction
If you’re struggling with blue Xanax abuse and addiction, treatment options are available. Depending on your needs and preferences, you can choose from a variety of addiction treatment options including La Hacienda Treatment Center.
Medical Detoxification at La Hacienda
Detox is the first step toward recovery. Under medical supervision this treatment helps to flush out the toxins from the body and reduce withdrawal symptoms. It also allows for a safe and comfortable transition to sobriety, ensuring that the dependence on the drug is addressed and managed. Additionally, it prepares the patient for further treatments that they will need to recover from blue Xanax addiction.
Residential Program
La Hacienda offers inpatient and outpatient addiction treatment programs.
The inpatient residential treatment program provides a safe and supportive environment for patients to focus on recovery. They participate in various therapies and activities to help them learn life skills, develop positive behaviors, and cope with triggers while living at the rehab center in the relaxing Texas Hill Country.
Outpatient treatment is good for those who need to maintain outside responsibilities–such as working or attending school–while undergoing treatment. This program also offers a range of treatments and activities to help better understand addiction and to learn how to manage it in the long run.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) seeks to help users distinguish and change negative behaviors and thought patterns that enable their addiction. Through counseling sessions, patients can explore the underlying causes of their Xanax dependency and learn ways to control and manage it more effectively.
Individual and Group Therapy
Individual therapy provides a personal setting for those struggling with blue Xanax addiction. This one-on-one counseling allows patients to concentrate on their personal thoughts and feelings associated with the drug and helps them develop healthier coping techniques.
Group therapy focuses on building a support group of people who are also battling prescription drug abuse. It provides a safe and non-judgmental environment to share thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Get the Help You Need
Blue Xanax, when prescribed, is an effective method to manage and treat anxiety disorders. It’s critical to follow your doctor’s prescription when taking the drug and never exceed the recommended dosage. Additionally, you should purchase only from legitimate sources, as fake blue Xanax can worsen your symptoms and have serious side effects.
If you’re struggling with Xanax abuse or addiction, seek help from a doctor immediately. There are also excellent treatment facilities that can help you recover safely and efficiently. With the proper treatment and support, you can get back on track and live a life free of drug abuse.
Remember that you’re not alone. We offer detox programs and residential treatments for a more comprehensive approach to treating blue Xanax addiction.
Contact us today to start your journey to recovery!
Sources:
https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Benzodiazepenes-2020_1.pdf
https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/benzodiazepines
https://effectivehealthcare.ahrq.gov/get-involved/nominated-topics/safe-use-prescription
