Does Xanax cause memory loss?
Several research studies have found that chronic or heavy Xanax use can cause short-term memory loss. This is listed by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as one of the more serious side effects of Xanax requiring immediate medical attention.
Does Xanax put holes in your brain?
Xanax can cause short-term and long-term damage to brain function. Some of the damage may be permanent.
Will Xanax cause dementia?
Last year, a widely publicized study again found that benzodiazepines–Ativan, Valium, and Xanax–which are often used to treat anxiety and sleep problems, were linked to increased risk for Alzheimer’s disease in elderly people.
Why can’t you eat grapefruit while taking Xanax?
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can affect liver enzymes that are needed to break down (metabolize) Xanax. When you take Xanax with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, the amount of alprazolam in your blood may increase and boost side effects like drowsiness, dizziness and confusion.
Does Xanax cross the blood brain barrier?
When someone takes Xanax, there is a change in their brain function is a result, because these substances cross the blood-brain barrier and impact GABA, which is a neurotransmitter that controls communication between neurons in the central nervous system.
Why is Xanax bad for older adults?
Long-term use can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms when discontinued. In older people, research has shown that benzodiazepines can impair cognition, mobility, and driving skills, and they increase the risk of falls.
What is the best anti-anxiety medication for elderly?
Buspirone is an anti-anxiety drug that has been shown to be effective for older adults. Benzodiazepines, another anti-anxiety drug, are effective but should be prescribed carefully to older adults because of risk of memory impairment, unsteadiness, and falls.
Can senior citizens take Xanax?
Although guidelines state benzodiazepines should rarely be prescribed to adults over the age of 65, the average age of those receiving their first benzodiazepine prescription was 78.
What works like Xanax not addictive?
Article at a Glance: People with a history of addiction may benefit from taking anxiety medications that don’t have addictive properties. SSRIs, SNRIs, buspirone, beta-blockers, pregabalin, gabapentin, hydroxyzine, PanX and diphenhydramine are all options for anxiety that are alternatives to addictive benzodiazepines.