Xanax is commonly misused to create an alcohol-like high, with feelings of euphoria and increased sociability.
The 1990 to 1998 National Institute of Drug Abuse statistics show that the number of Americans who began to misuse sedatives nearly doubled, while abuse of pain relievers rose 180% during this time period.
Xanax addiction withdrawal studies in which patients on xanax dosages of two miligrams a day for one year indicate that some individuals experience withdrawal symptom recurrence.
Illegal possesion of Xanax is a felony and carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, and a $5,000 fine.
Three out of four drugs that are used illegally in the United States are prescription drugs.