Fentanyl and Xanax

There has been concern over recent years about the heightened risks tied to the deadly combination of fentanyl and Xanax. While fentanyl is a powerful pain reliever and Xanax can help relieve anxiety and panic disorders—its misuse can be extremely dangerous. 

When taken together, these drugs can be a dangerous mix—with potentially fatal consequences. Let’s take a closer look at why combining these substances is risky, has a higher chance of overdose, and can lead to long-term effects on a person’s health. 

Understanding Fentanyl and Xanax 

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is significantly more potent than other opioids. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, fentanyl can help manage severe or chronic pain. 

What Is Xanax?

Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine that can treat anxiety and panic disorders. This prescription substance is a central nervous system depressant and produces a sedative effect.   

Understanding Counterfeit Xanax: Xanax Laced with Fentanyl

A combination of fentanyl and Xanax can pose an extremely dangerous threat to the individual who purchases it from an illicit source. The problem is that the individual often doesn’t know they bought Xanax laced with fentanyl.

Even without fentanyl, Xanax is a commonly abused prescription drug. Its effect on brain chemicals can provide relief from symptoms of anxiety in a short amount of time. Xanax has the potential to lead to addiction at a relatively rapid rate, which is why it is one of the most abused drugs available. 

When Xanax is purchased outside of legitimate prescriptions, individuals expose themselves to a heightened risk of purchasing Xanax laced with fentanyl. 

What Does Counterfeit Xanax Look Like? 

Counterfeit tablets that mix fentanyl and Xanax are often thinner than prescribed Xanax tablets. They also may have a number stamped on them or other numbers acting as identifiers. 

Xanax and Fentanyl Overdose Risks

Xanax mixed with fentanyl can create a significant risk of overdose, which can lead to life-threatening complications. 

Respiratory Depression

Fentanyl and Xanax depress the central nervous system that slows down respiration. When combined, the drug intensifies the effect, resulting in slowed or stopped breathing, which can have a deadly effect, according to the Center for Substance Abuse Research. 

Heightened Sedation

Fentanyl and Xanax are sedatives, which means that they can cause extreme drowsiness and impair motor skills. There is an increased risk of falls, accidents, or other injuries when the substances are combined. 

Increased Potency

Fentanyl is significantly more potent than other opioids. When the substance is mixed with Xanax, it amplifies the potency of both substances. It makes it easier to accidentally overdose, even in small amounts, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. 

Respiratory and Other Health Risks 

Respiratory Distress Syndrome

A combination of fentanyl and Xanax can cause respiratory distress syndrome, which happens when your lungs fail to provide enough oxygen to the body. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, respiratory distress syndrome can result in brain damage, organ failure, or death. 

Increased Risk of Seizures

People who’ve become physically dependent on Xanax can experience seizures during withdrawal. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, adding fentanyl into the mix only increases the risk of seizures. 

Cardiac Complications

Mixing fentanyl and Xanax can cause cardiovascular problems, like irregular heart rhythms, soul attacks, or cardiac arrest. These complications can be life-threatening, especially to people with pre-existing heart conditions, according to Mayo Clinic.

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 has an incredibly high risk that can lead to serious consequences like overdose, trouble breathing, and lasting problems that can negatively impact your life. It’s important to understand these dangers—and to know that help is out there if you’re struggling. Your health matters, and you don’t have to go through this alone.

If you’re using fentanyl and Xanax and want to make a change, Tree House Recovery in Denver is here for you. Our experienced addiction specialists are ready to support you on the path to recovery. Reach out today for a quick, no-cost, confidential assessment—and take the first step toward a healthier, more purposeful life.