Medical Questions » Medicines Questions » Question No. 654
Question:I have been prescribed Xanax for post-traumatic stress. At the moment I would barely be sleeping at all if I were not taking it. Can you tell me which group of drugs Xanax falls into, can it cause addiction, and what are its side effects?
Answer:Xanax is a benzodiazepine, and is very useful for the short term relief of stress and anxiety. If the problem is long term it is better to change to a medication that is designed to be used for months on end, as regular use of Xanax over this period of time may cause dependence, and make it difficult to relax or sleep normally when it is ceased. Xanax does not cause addiction, which is far more serious than dependence, but it may cause drowsiness, loss of interest, depression and poor coordination if taken inappropriately. If you find that you cannot do without the medication, talk to your general practitioner about using a more appropriate drug.
       
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