Fentanyl and Xanax

The combination of fentanyl and Xanax has gained more attention in recent years due to its potentially lethal consequences. Fentanyl, a potent opioid, and Xanax, a benzodiazepine, both have legitimate medical uses but are associated with significant risks when misused. This article explores the dangers of mixing fentanyl and Xanax, highlighting the potential health hazards, overdose risks, and long-term implications of this lethal combination.

Understanding Fentanyl and Xanax 

Fentanyl:

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid pain reliever that is exponentially more potent than other opioids like morphine or heroin. It is primarily used for managing severe pain, particularly in cases of chronic pain or during surgical procedures (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021). 

Xanax:

Xanax, or alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine medication commonly prescribed for treating anxiety and panic disorders. It acts as a central nervous system depressant, producing sedative effects.

Counterfeit Xanax: Xanax Laced with Fentanyl

The combination of fentanyl and Xanax is often unknown to individuals who purchase Xanax from illicit sources, but it poses an extremely dangerous threat.

Counterfeit tablets that mix fentanyl and Xanax are frequently thinner than genuine Xanax tablets, and they may bear stamped numbers or markings as identifiers.

Even without fentanyl, Xanax alone is a commonly abused prescription drug. By affecting brain chemicals, it provides relief from anxiety symptoms and induces a sense of calm and relaxation.

Xanax holds the distinction of being one of the most abused and highly addictive drugs available. Independent of fentanyl, Xanax has the potential to lead to dependence and addiction at a relatively rapid pace. When individuals seek Xanax outside of legitimate prescriptions, they expose themselves to a heightened risk of purchasing Xanax that has been adulterated with fentanyl.

Increased Risk of Overdose 

Mixing fentanyl and Xanax significantly increases the risk of overdose, leading to life-threatening complications. 

Respiratory Depression:

Both fentanyl and Xanax depress the central nervous system, slowing down respiration. When combined, these effects intensify, potentially resulting in slowed or stopped breathing, which can be deadly (Center for Substance Abuse Research, 2013). 

Heightened Sedation:

Fentanyl and Xanax have sedative properties that can cause extreme drowsiness and impair motor skills. Combining these substances exacerbates sedation, increasing the risk of accidents, falls, or other injuries (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). 

Increased Potency:

Fentanyl is significantly more potent than other opioids, and when mixed with Xanax, it amplifies the potency of both substances, making it easier to accidentally overdose even with small amounts (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021).

Respiratory Distress and Other Health Risks 

Respiratory Distress Syndrome:

Combining fentanyl and Xanax can lead to respiratory distress syndrome. This is where your lungs fail to provide adequate oxygen to the body. This condition can result in brain damage, organ failure, or death (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2016). 

Increased Risk of Seizures:

Xanax withdrawal can cause seizures in individuals who have developed a physical dependence on the drug. When combined with fentanyl, the risk of seizures is further elevated (U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2020). 

Cardiac Complications:

Mixing fentanyl and Xanax can lead to cardiovascular problems, including irregular heart rhythms, heart attacks, or cardiac arrest. These complications can be life-threatening, particularly in individuals with pre-existing heart conditions (Mayo Clinic, 2021).

Long-Term Implications 

Addiction (Physical and Psychological Dependence):

Combining fentanyl and Xanax increases the risk of developing addiction (physical and psychological dependence) on both substances, making quitting more challenging and increasing the likelihood of addiction (National Institute on Drug Abuse, 2021). 

Withdrawal Symptoms:

Individuals who abuse fentanyl and Xanax together may experience severe withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, insomnia, muscle pain, nausea, and hallucinations, when attempting to stop using the substances (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2016).

Getting Help for fentanyl and Xanax abuse:

 Mixing fentanyl and Xanax is an extremely dangerous practice with severe consequences, including overdose, respiratory distress, and long-term health complications. Understanding the risks associated with these substances and seeking professional help for any substance use concerns is crucial. Remember, your health and well-being are paramount, and resources are available to provide support and guidance. 

If you are abusing fentanyl and Xanax and are looking for help, reach out to us here at Tree House Recovery in Denver. You don’t have to face this alone. Are trained addiction specialists can help you recover and live a life of freedom, purpose and health. Call use to day for a fast, free and convential assessment.