What is a Xanax Bar?
Xanax bars are small pill-sized tablets of Alprazolam, also known as “zanies” and “planks”. Each Xanax bar contains 2 mg of Alprazolam, which can be divided into two 1 mg halves. Smaller doses of Xanax include 0.5 mg and 0.25 mg, the lowest dose available. The generic form of the medicine is known as Alprazolam.
Why do People Take Xanax?
Xanax is a class of benzodiazepine that is beneficial for the management of panic and anxiety disorders. It stimulates the central nervous system, promoting calmness and reducing anxiety. It is a prescription medicine and controlled substance regulated by the FDA. Medical experts prescribe Xanax for two primary conditions: anxiety disorders in adults and children, and panic disorder which is commonly associated with anxiety.
Xanax for Anxiety
According to a report from IMS, Xanax consistently ranks as one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States and is the most widely prescribed psychiatric medicine in the country. However, its growing popularity online has also made it widely used as a recreational drug. Xanax is a CNS stimulant medicine that has positive effects on the management of anxiety disorders. It is available in two variations: Xanax immediate-release and Xanax XR (extended-release) formulations. Both the Xanax bar and Xanax XR take effect quickly on the central nervous system, calming nerves and the brain by increasing GABA neurotransmitters inside the CNS.
Xanax Bars for Panic Disorder
Xanax is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that slows down the functionality of the brain to provide calming effects. When a person is going through panic attacks, their mind continually worries; Xanax slows this activity of the brain, contributing to calmness. The American Psychiatric Association estimates that 8 million Americans have panic disorders after teenage years, and Alprazolam has been proven to be effective in treating these disorders.
Xanax Bars: Addiction or Dependence
Xanax is a highly addictive medicine due to its working procedure. It directly stimulates the central nervous system by calming the nerves and the brain, which may trigger sedation or euphoria. Addiction usually occurs after long-term use of Xanax, so doctors prescribe this medicine for a short period. Addiction may also occur when the medication is used without limits; experts recommend following medicinal guidelines for proper medication. Despite its benefits, it may cause side effects when misused.