How Xanax Is Becoming More Popular in the UK
Xanax UK trends show misuse is rising across the country, despite all circulation coming from illicit or counterfeit sources. What was once a lesser-known prescription medication in the US is now making its way into UK university dorms and corporate workplaces alike.
With its increasing prevalence, we’re exploring: what is driving this spike in Xanax use across the country?
We’re highlighting some of the key reasons people are turning to recreational Xanax. Looking at the very real dangers behind its misuse, we’ll provide guidance on safely reducing if you’re struggling.
What is Xanax and how does it work?
Xanax is a brand name given to the drug alprazolam, one type of drug in the benzodiazepine family. In the United States, Xanax can be prescribed to treat severe anxiety and panic disorders. In the UK, however, alprazolam is not available on the NHS and is only issued in rare cases through private prescription. This means the vast majority of Xanax circulating in the UK is bought illicitly, often through online sellers or counterfeit sources.
Like other benzodiazepines, Xanax works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that slows down brain activity. After taking Xanax, you might feel calmer and sedated, which is why many people use it in moments of stress and anxiety. Xanax is fast-acting, with effects usually felt within an hour. Effects also wear off quickly, so this fast rise and fall is part of what gives Xanax its potent, “instant relief” reputation.
The downside is that this rapid effect also increases the risk of misuse, dependence and withdrawal, especially when used outside of medical instruction.
Why are young people increasingly drawn to Xanax?
Xanax’s increasing prevalence among younger crowds has received increasing media coverage in the UK over the past few years. One survey carried out through Snapchat claimed that as many as 35% of young people knew at least one friend taking Xanax. It is believed that as many as 1.7% of all English 15-year-olds have tried tranquiliser drugs, with more young people reaching out for drug treatment services than ever before.
These young adult drug trends are being witnessed more frequently across the country. There are likely several reasons for the increase in Xanax and alprazolam misuse in the UK, which can include:
Ease of access, normalisation and social media influence
Arguably, it is easier than ever for young people to see videos about Xanax online. Quick TikTok edits, music videos, meme culture and influencers all have quick rundowns of what the drug is. Yet the information given is usually not backed up. In addition to this, steady exposure makes the drug feel more normal, making viewers feel like Xanax is more common and accepted than it is in reality. Combined with how easily it can be purchased on the dark web, many young people are exposed, in some way, to Xanax long before they understand what it really does.
A false sense of safety
Because Xanax is a prescribed medication overseas, many young people assume it is safer than illicit drugs. This misconception hides the real dangers of alprazolam misuse, particularly when pills are sourced illegally, vary in strength or are counterfeits. The association with “medicine” means some young people can try to explain away their use to their parents if they’re caught.
Self-medicating stress, anxiety and sleep issues
Young people today report higher levels of anxiety, academic pressure and sleep disruption than ever before. Young people can so easily look up Xanax’s effects online, making its sedating effect more appealing for some form of relief. Without a medical professional, self-medication quickly becomes dangerous, with cycles of dependency becoming a normal part of secondary school and college life.
What makes Xanax misuse so dangerous?
Some of the main risks of Xanax outside of a prescription are:
Cognition and memory impairment
Xanax’s effects include slowing activity in parts of your brain responsible for memory and decision-making. Research shows that when misused, a person can have problems making new memories while Xanax is active in their system. Another effect is “blackouts,” in which a person cannot recall what they did after taking the drug. Over time, misuse will impair a person’s cognitive clarity, making day-to-day tasks and responsibilities harder to fulfil.
Risky drug combinations (alcohol, opioids, cannabis)
Mixing Xanax with alcohol, opioids, or cannabis dramatically increases its risks, potentially leading to overdose. These substances all depress your central nervous system, so when taken together, the sedative effects compound one another. Breathing can slow to dangerous levels, coordination drops sharply and blackouts are far more likely.
Severe withdrawal symptoms
Xanax withdrawal, like withdrawal from other benzodiazepines can be intense because the drug leaves the body quickly. When someone stops using it regularly, the brain struggles to rebalance its calming GABA activity. This can quickly cause surging feelings of anxiety and agitation. In more serious cases, people can experience panic attacks, tremors, sweating, hallucinations or seizures. The discomfort in withdrawal leads many to return to the drug as a form of escape.
The rise of fake Xanax pills in the UK
Fake Xanax pills are now one of the biggest dangers linked to alprazolam misuse in the country. They also reflect a wider pattern of prescription drug misuse that UK authorities have been warning about.
Because the drug isn’t prescribed on the NHS, most Xanax circulating in the country comes from illegal online suppliers or overseas sources. Unregulated Xanax may contain little to no alprazolam at all. Instead, these drugs can contain unknown sedatives or even traces of opioids. They aren’t regulated, so the drug’s strength can vary wildly, with a higher potential for overdose.
How can I reduce Xanax use safely?
If you’re struggling to quit or reduce Xanax, there are some steps you can take to make the process safer. These include:
- Be aware of the dangers of stopping suddenly: If you stop suddenly after extended periods of use, withdrawal can become dangerous. Quitting cold turkey can lead to tremors and seizures, so please be aware of the dangers.
- Speak to a GP about tapering: Safer dose reduction may need medical support, especially for those with daily or long-term use.
- Avoid mixing substances: The way Xanax interacts with other substances can be riskier than you first think. Make efforts to avoid polysubstance use to decrease these risks.
- Build healthier coping mechanisms: Working on healthier coping mechanisms and outlets can support you in managing cravings for the drug. Sleep routines, support groups and exercise schedules may become an anchor in times of stress.
Lastly, if your health is becoming worse from Xanax misuse, it may be best to reach out to a professional treatment provider.
Where can I get support for addiction in my life?
If you’re worried about your Xanax use, or someone else’s, you’re not alone. Please remember that help is closer than you think.
At Providence Projects, we specialise in medical detox that keeps you supported through any withdrawal. We use evidence-based therapies as a pivotal part of our treatment pathway to get to the root drivers of addiction, then aftercare is in place for the foundation of your lasting and complete recovery.
Our team is waiting for your call today. Reach out and take the first step towards a stronger, sober future.
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If you are looking for rehab to take your, or a loved ones, life back from addiction, look no further than Providence Projects. Reach out to us today to find out how we can help you or a loved one achieve long-term recovery.
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