Many prescription drugs are considered controlled substances as defined by the DEA in the U.S. The drug schedule is based on whether or not a substance has potential medical uses and how habit-forming it is considered to be.
Article at a Glance:
- Xanax (alprazolam) is a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has a low risk of abuse and dependence.
- It is classified as a benzodiazepine and is prescribed for anxiety and panic disorder.
- Xanax can be deadly when an overdose occurs, especially when combined with opioids.
Is Xanax a Controlled Substance?
Xanax is a controlled substance. Along with other benzodiazepines, it is currently characterized as aSchedule IV drug, meaning that it has alow potential for abuse and low risk of dependencecompared to other controlled substances. Nonetheless, these drugs can be habit-forming and deadly, especially whencombined with opioids.
Xanax Drug Class
Xanax is a benzodiazepine and aSchedule IVcontrolled substance. By law, this means that a prescription for Xanax is only good forsix monthsand that it can only be refilled up to five times within that period.
Does This Mean That Xanax Shouldn’t Be Used?
When the benefits of Xanax outweigh the risks, it can be used under the supervision of a physician and with a prescription. Xanax can help people, and as a Schedule IV drug, the DEA doesn’t consider it highly habit-forming. It is important to discuss your full medical history with your doctor, including any personal or family history of substance abuse, before taking Xanax.
What Should I Know About Xanax’s Classification?
First, everyone’s experience with Xanax can be different. Some people may be able to use it temporarily to ease symptoms of anxiety with few complications. For other people, it can be an addictive drug that’s difficult to stop using. Xanax is frequentlyused recreationallyand abused by people without a prescription. Xanax tends to lead to physical dependence pretty quickly as well, andwithdrawalfrom this drug can be difficult and severe.
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For most people, even when they take Xanax as prescribed, it is necessary totaper offwhen they stop using it. For some people who use benzodiazepines, particularly when they’re used for an extended period, amedically supervised detoxmay be necessary. None of these factors are heavily considered in the current drug schedule.
Again, Xanax’s classification as a Schedule IV drug doesn’t addresshow dangerous it is. Benzos like Xanax are very often involved invisits to the emergency roomand inoverdose deaths related to opioids. This can happen when they’re used on their own, but it is especially likely when they’re combined with alcohol or opioids.
If you’re concerned that you or a loved one might be abusing Xanax,reach outto The Recovery Village. Our licensed clinicians offer personalized treatment plans that address substance abuse and anyco-occurring mental health conditions. Help is just a call away.
