Why Is Xanax More Addictive?

Question by Zor: Why is xanax more addictive?

than other benzo

Best answer:

Answer by ladyren
More addictive than what?

Answer by eigenfunxion
The shorter half life allows for more acute relief of symptoms. In theory this leads to less buildup of tolerance; therefore, fewer/less severe withdrawal symptoms and less “addiction.”

However, benzos are potential drugs of abuse (lab animals will self medicate) and so, with a shorter half life, people have a tendency to take another dose as soon as the pleasant feeling wears off, not when they actually start feeling anxiety etc again. This negates the advantage of the shorter half life and acute treatment.

additionally, the shorter the half life the faster the withdrawal symptoms set in; therefore, the person has a greater urgency to take another dose and due to the quicker onset, these withdrawal symptoms can be more dangerous.