Xanax® Withdrawal Timeline: Symptoms, Stages, and How Long Withdrawal Lasts
Xanax® (alprazolam) is a fast acting benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. Because it works quickly, the brain can become dependent on it in a short period of time. When someone stops taking Xanax® too quickly, withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours and may become severe without medical supervision.
This guide outlines the complete Xanax® withdrawal timeline, common symptoms, safety considerations, and treatment options for managing withdrawal effectively.
How Long Does Xanax® Withdrawal Last?
The average Xanax® withdrawal period lasts 1 to 2 weeks, but some symptoms can persist for several months if use was long term.
General timeline:
- 8 to 12 hours after last dose: Early withdrawal begins
- 1 to 4 days: Peak withdrawal symptoms
- 5 to 14 days: Stabilization and symptom reduction
- 2 weeks to several months: Possible protracted withdrawal symptoms
Each person experiences withdrawal differently depending on dose, duration of use, and individual health factors.
Full Xanax® Withdrawal Timeline
8 to 12 Hours After Last Dose
Early symptoms begin as Xanax® levels drop in the bloodstream.
- Anxiety or agitation
- Restlessness
- Insomnia
- Irritability
1 to 4 Days: Acute Withdrawal Peak
This is the most intense stage of Xanax® withdrawal.
- Severe anxiety or panic
- Tremors or shaking
- Sweating
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Heart palpitations
- Muscle tension or spasms
- Possible seizures in high risk cases
5 to 14 Days: Symptom Stabilization
Most physical symptoms begin to lessen as the body adjusts.
- Reduced intensity of anxiety
- Sleep disturbances
- Mood instability
- Difficulty concentrating
2 Weeks to Several Months: Protracted Withdrawal
Some people experience lingering symptoms known as PAWS (Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome).
- Intermittent anxiety
- Low mood
- Sensitivity to stress
- Sleep problems
Common Xanax® Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms may vary in intensity. The most commonly reported include:
- Anxiety or panic attacks
- Sleep disruption
- Nausea or stomach upset
- Sweating or chills
- Tremors
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle cramps or tension
- Sensory hypersensitivity
- Rebound anxiety
Is Xanax® Withdrawal Dangerous?
Yes. Xanax® withdrawal can be dangerous, especially if stopped suddenly. Because Xanax® is short acting, withdrawal onset is faster and more intense compared to longer acting benzodiazepines.
Potential severe risks include:
- Hallucinations
- Severe confusion
- Seizures
- Life threatening rebound anxiety
Due to these risks, medical supervision is strongly recommended.
What Affects the Xanax® Withdrawal Timeline?
- Duration of use: Long term use increases severity
- Dosage level: Higher doses cause more intense symptoms
- Chemical dependence: Physical and psychological dependence increase withdrawal duration
- Age and metabolism: Older adults metabolize drugs more slowly
- Co occurring disorders: Anxiety, trauma, or depression may worsen symptoms
Managing Xanax® Withdrawal Safely
A slow taper supervised by a medical provider is the safest way to reduce Xanax® use. Treatment programs can provide structure, therapy, and medical support throughout the process.
The Heights Treatment in Houston offers:
- Psychiatric evaluation
- Medication assisted support when appropriate
- CBT and DBT therapy
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Panic disorder and anxiety treatment
- PHP and IOP programs
Related internal resources:
When to Seek Professional Help
If you experience severe anxiety, hallucinations, confusion, or seizures during Xanax® withdrawal, seek emergency medical care. For ongoing withdrawal support, structured outpatient programs can provide a safe and effective path forward.
Call The Heights Treatment at (832) 979 3625 or visit The Heights Treatment for a confidential assessment.
Sources
- National Center for Biotechnology Information – Alprazolam Overview
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration
