Long term effects of Xanax on the body (INFOGRAPHIC)

What are the possible dangers of using Xanax over the long term? We present some answers to these questions visually. More here.

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Long term effects of Xanax on the body

Xanax (alprazolam) can make you feel extremely tired or affect coordination and make balance difficult. It causes pain in the joints, in the back and severe headaches. What other effects does Xanax have on the body? We explore here.

Serious effects of Xanax on the brain

Long term effects of Xanax on the body (INFOGRAPHIC)

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  • coma
  • depersonalization
  • depression
  • hallucination
  • loss of consciousness
  • problems with coordination or balance
  • stupor
  • suicidal thoughts or actions

Moderate effects of Xanax on the brain

  • agitation
  • brain receptors lose sensitivity
  • forgetfulness
  • irritability
  • modulates the effect of gaba-a receptors
  • modulates the effect of gaba-ergic neurons
  • mood swings
  • nervousness
  • nightmares and abnormal dreams
  • no fear of danger
  • paradoxical excitation
  • restlessness
  • sleep apnea
  • tiredness

Effects of Xanax on the cardiovascular system

  • hypertension
  • thrombophlebitis

Effects of Xanax on the ear

  • ear pain
  • increased sensitivity to noise
  • tinnitus

Effects of Xanax on the general health

  • changes in appetite
  • joint pain
  • weight changes

Effects of Xanax on the heart

  • cardiopulmonary collapse
  • palpitations
  • sinus tachycardia
  • tachycardia

Effects of Xanax on the intestines

  • constipation

Effects of Xanax on the kidneys

  • acute kidney damage
  • bloody or cloudy urine
  • difficulty urinating
  • problems with urinary retention

Effects of Xanax on the liver

  • elevated hepatic enzymes
  • liver disease

Damage on the lungs

  • apnea
  • aspiration pneumonia
  • depression of respiration
  • respiratory arrest
  • shortness of breath

Damage on the mouth

  • bitter or metallic taste
  • dry mouth
  • increased salivation
  • swelling of lips and tongue
  • ulcers or sores in mouth

Effects of Xanax on the muscular system

  • back pain
  • muscle cramps
  • muscle twitching

Effects of Xanax on the nose

  • change in sense of smell
  • epistaxis
  • nasal congestion
  • rhinorrhea

Effects of Xanax on the skin

  • edema
  • excessive sweating
  • itchiness
  • nonthrombo-cytopenic purpura
  • pruritus
  • round, red welts
  • severe skin rashes
  • swelling
  • yellowing of the skin

Effects of Xanax on the throat

  • choking sensation
  • ulcers or sores in throat
About the author
Lee Weber is a published author, medical writer, and woman in long-term recovery from addiction. Her latest book, The Definitive Guide to Addiction Interventions is set to reach university bookstores in early 2019.
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