Xanax, a brand name for alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders. Taking too much Xanax can result in extreme sedation, confusion, and loss of consciousness. The risk of overdose is increased if Xanax is taken alongside substances such as opioids and/or alcohol.
In case of an emergency, such as loss of consciousness, unresponsiveness, or breathing difficulties, call 911 immediately.
- Symptoms of a Xanax overdose can include weakness, drowsiness, loss of consciousness, and slowed or stopped breathing, which can result in death.
- Xanax overdose can be treated with professional monitoring and management of airways and breathing, administration of flumazenil to reverse the effects, and stomach pumping.
- Substances that interact with Xanax and increase the risk of overdose include opioids, alcohol, and other benzodiazepines.
Can you overdose on Xanax?
Taking more Xanax than prescribed or taking illicit Xanax can result in an overdose. Xanax is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders and is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. It causes sedating effects, which can be dangerous and sometimes fatal in large doses. [1]
Alprazolam (Xanax) is commonly prescribed and is reportedly one of the most widely diverted benzodiazepines in the US, meaning that it can be more easily obtained. Many people buy illicitly obtained Xanax because of its relaxing effects or to enhance euphoria when combined with other substances. [2]
Its accessibility contributes to the high number of alprazolam overdoses, both accidental and intentional. Statistics also suggest that Xanax may be more dangerous in overdose than other benzodiazepines and sedatives. [3][4]
Typically, it is likely that a person will recover from a Xanax overdose with professional treatment. However, reports show that when Xanax is combined with other substances, particularly CNS depressants such as alcohol or opioids, toxicity is more severe, leading to a higher number of fatalities. [3][5]
Can you die from Xanax overdose?
There are cases of people dying from Xanax overdose. [6][7] However, in most cases, people will recover with professional treatment. Xanax overdose can be particularly dangerous as alprazolam is fast-acting and potent, meaning that the effects will emerge quickly. As such, without rapid treatment, overdose effects such as loss of consciousness or severely slowed heart rate can be fatal. [8]
Often, fatal Xanax overdoses are accidental and involve multiple substances. For example, people may be prescribed Xanax for anxiety and an opioid painkiller. This combination can be dangerous so would likely be prescribed carefully and within appropriate and safe doses. However, should the individual then choose to drink alcohol along with these medications, the combined effects could be severe or fatal. [9]
The severity of a Xanax overdose can depend on several factors, including the dosage, age, weight, addiction substances, and tolerance. [3]
Maximum recommended Xanax dose
The recommended daily dosage of Xanax varies depending on the condition but is often between 4 and 10 mg, split into divided doses. Taking more than this can result in an overdose and for some people, overdose can even occur within this dosage range. [10]
Treatment is often commenced with a low dose and increased gradually, to prevent adverse effects. People who take a large dose of Xanax, particularly those who have not used the medication before, may be at higher risk of experiencing overdose. [10]
Xanax overdose symptoms
Common Xanax overdose symptoms include: [2][10]
- Drowsiness
- Extreme sedation
- Change in mental state
- Confusion
What to do if someone overdoses on Xanax
In the event of any of the above symptoms, or if a Xanax overdose is suspected, contact a medical professional. In case of an emergency, such as severe overdose symptoms including unresponsiveness and trouble breathing, call 911 immediately, as life-saving care is required.
It may be helpful to gather information about the individual, their prescriptions, and what substances they have taken and in what doses, to help inform their treatment.
Treatment for Xanax overdose
Treatment for a Xanax overdose may include being admitted to the hospital for professional monitoring. Breathing issues and severe sedation will be monitored and managed and it may be necessary to administer fluids. In some cases, the individual will have their stomach pumped to remove any remaining substances. [10]
Flumazenil can be administered which can help reverse the effects of Xanax, helping to restore normal breathing. This will be administered only by a professional, as monitoring is required during this treatment in case of seizures or other adverse effects. [8][10]
Xanax interactions
Severe Xanax overdoses typically include a combination of Xanax and alcohol and/or opioids. These substances, like Xanax, are CNS depressants. This combination can lead to an increased risk of respiratory and cardiac effects and potentially fatal overdose. [2][8]
Other medications that can also increase risks associated with CNS depression when combined with Xanax include: [1][10][11]
- Antihistamines
- Sleeping pills and tranquilizers
- Other benzodiazepines
- Antipsychotic medications
- Anticonvulsant medications
- Certain tricyclic antidepressants
- Buprenorphine
Treatment following Xanax overdose
Xanax overdose may be more likely to occur in those who abuse the medication, with or without additional substance abuse. In these cases, individuals may benefit from substance use disorder treatment, such as:
If a Xanax overdose has occurred as an intentional suicide attempt, the individual will likely be referred to appropriate mental health services. They may require treatment to manage their mental state, including:
- Inpatient care
- Therapy
- Medications
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