Etizolam and Xanax are both treatments for anxiety disorder, often seen in a drug addiction treatment center in North Carolina. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America estimates around 18 percent of the adult population in the U.S. experience anxiety, yet, only 37 percent get treatment. There are many similarities between these two medications and some differences, too. Whether you’re simply trying to decide between using Etizolam vs. Xanax to manage your anxiety or you’ve tried both, it’s important to know about the similarities and the differences.
At Red Oak Recovery®, we’re proud to offer benzo addiction treatment as well as dual diagnosis treatment for those suffering from anxiety. Please don’t struggle with substance use disorder alone. Let us help. To learn more about our services or to enroll in our anxiety treatment program, please contact Red Oak Recovery® today at 866.457.7590 or use our convenient online form.
What Is Etizolam?
Etizolam is a thienodiazepine, which is a benzodiazepine analog. In other words, chemically, it is slightly different than a benzodiazepine like Xanax. Although not available in the U.S., it is deemed a Schedule 1 drug in some states because it can be found online and on the street as a recreational drug. Etizolam has sedative effects and is a muscle relaxant. It interacts with a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that controls the firing of neurons. As a result, it is a depressant drug that slows everything down.
Long-term use can lead to blepharospasm or twitching of the eyelids. It may also cause a specific kind of skin lesion, although that is a rare side effect of the drug.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax is a short-acting benzodiazepine also used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, specifically panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is also helpful in the treatment of nausea from chemotherapy.
Like Etizolam, Xanax has a sedative effect but can come with more side effects, including:
- Sleepiness
- Depression
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Memory problem
- In rare cases, thoughts of suicide.
It is important to monitor your benzo use carefully, as this medication is highly addictive. If you are struggling with dependence or tolerance, it’s vital to find a benzo addiction treatment program.
Similarities Between Etizolam vs. Xanax
Both medications treat anxiety and taking them causes relaxation and sedation. They also work the same way by interacting with the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. They are also both depressant drugs.
What Are the Differences?
The main difference between these two drugs is availability. Etizolam is only available in Japan and a few other countries. It is not used clinically in the United States. Xanax, however, is common in the United States, and there has been an increase in its use in the last decade. In 2006, there were over 15,000,000 Xanax prescriptions issued, compared to 2016, when that number rose to close to 30,000,000.
Abuse Between Etizolam vs. Xanax
Another commonality between Etizolam and Xanax is their use as recreational drugs. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that in Japan and countries where Etizolam is available, abuse is a regular occurrence. It appears to be on the rise in the U.S., too, according to a 2015 report in the Annals of Emergency Medicine.
Xanax abuse is also an increasing problem. The nation saw a significant increase in Xanax overdose deaths between 1999 and 2015. There has also been an increase in the number of prescriptions for this drug. Many individuals who obtain Xanax legally admit to abusing it. Symptoms of Xanax addiction include:
- Drowsiness or slurred speech
- Nausea or constipation
- Mood swings
- Changes in behavior
- Using Xanax without a prescription
- Using more Xanax than the doctor has prescribed
- Doctor shopping to obtain more medication
If you suffer from Xanax addiction, Red Oak Recovery® is here to help.
The Dangers of Benzo Addiction
Although both drugs are used to treat anxiety disorders, they are also highly addictive and can lead to dependence. When taken as prescribed, there is a small risk of addiction. However, abuse of either drug increases the chances of developing an addiction.
Etizolam and Xanax should only be used for a short period, no longer than four weeks. If you have been taking either drug for longer than that, you may be at risk for addiction. The symptoms of benzo addictions may include:
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Nervousness
- Sweating
- Hand tremors
- Heart palpitations
If you are struggling with benzo addiction, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Benzo addiction treatment can help you overcome your dependence on these drugs and get your life back on track.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, don’t wait to get help. Contact Red Oak Recovery® today to learn more about our benzo addiction treatment program.
Seek Treatment at Red Oak Recovery® Today
Families dealing with addiction to either drug will want to find a clinically focused, trauma-informed substance use treatment center. Since these are street drugs, you may want a treatment center that offers specialized treatment for young adults.
Red Oak Recovery® is the only true hybrid program in the country. They offer wilderness and adventure programs combined with clinical care. Red Oak provides:
- Eco-therapy
- Gardening
- Heroin rehab program
- Alcohol rehab program
- 12-step addiction recovery
- Adventure-based therapy
- Individual therapy
- Family therapy program
- Young adult rehab program
Red Oak Recovery® offers integrated mental health treatment and flexible lengths of stay, as well. If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction, contact us today at 866.457.7590. We can help.
