Overdose - The Alprazolam Overdose Thread [Archive]

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Cleverdemise

27-04-2005, 00:56

Hi everyone..... On christmas day I developed anxiety and panic disorder... I was perscribed 1mg pills for a about a month, and then and i got cut down to two .5mg pills of xanax, which i take two times a day, unless i have an emergency and require three...... I usually use them for recreational use about once a month, but i've heard that you can overdose at around (i read this on erowid, the kid was 14) 20mgs of xanax and end up in a temporary coma. I have a high tolerance for pills, and not just benzodiazapines, i'm talking pretty much any pills. Like i can take 40-50 mgs of valiums and not even really feel anything. I can drive just fine and my motor skills are are great. Vics and perks have no affect one me.The problem is that i've heard that if you take around 20 mg's of xanax, you can go into a xanax coma, which would obviously not be cool. Right now at this very second, i'm on 17mg's of xanax, and other than feeling a little heavy and down, I'm not feeling a whole lot. I usually only use xanax reacreationally about once month, so i don't think i have a crazy high tolerance. Ofcourse, the 20mg coma thing i read on erowid from a 14 year old kid, so maybe that's why. I'm about 6ft tall and i weight about 140 lbs, and 19 years old, so do you think it would be safe to take any more? I'm not really trying to get into a coma or anything, obviously... ***** also, i have a really high tolerance for pills. Not just benzos, i'm talking any pills. Asprin, vics, valiums, i dont know why, but i just have a high tolererance to pills. Would it be safe to take more than 20mgs? Be honest, i dont wanna die or go into a coma or anything. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated, and thanks in advance.

Edited by: Cleverdemise

Gahaba22

27-04-2005, 01:11

Cleverdemise

27-04-2005, 11:42

Cleverdemise

28-04-2005, 01:23

It is really hard to take you seriously. I don't know anyone who could take 17mg of xanax and still be conscious- and trust me, I would know. If you are not going to be mature about your drug use and the use of this forum, please refrain from using both.

Thanks

Why is it so hard to take me seriously? I actually have severe axiety and panix disorder, is it possible that half of the dosage of I'm taking is making me "normal" and the other half is the recreational effect? White footballs are .25 mg, peach are .5mg, blue 1mg, and bars are 2mg. I'm hardly a drug abuser (other than xanax, which like i said, is only once a month) due to my high level of anxiety. Are there some kind of drugs that counter-act xanis? I'm also on Depakote, paxil, kavakava, and a few other tranquilizing, stress releaving herbs. But i can assure you, i definitely ingested 17 mg;s of xanax, and other than feeling really tired, and slightly heavy and out of it, i felt nothing at all.

And on another note, is it possible for xanax to go bad or something? The pills i took looked kinda old. Another thing is, i know you can develop a tolerance quickly to benzo's, but i can't hardly imagine building up tolerance that can diminish 17mg's of zanis. Well, i just picked up 30 bars, so i'll try again in the future, but any input would be gladly appreciated. I'm not a faker or anything, this is all the truth, why would i go out of my way just to lie, there's nothing to benefit from it.

Once i took around 10 mg's of xanax, and i was so fucked up, i could barely type, and i fell down the steps and got bruised and hurt, and i didnt feel a thing, and then i fell asleep for like 20 hours. So i can't understand why 17mg's of zani's would have virtually no effect on me. There had to be something wrong with the pills i took, because there's no way i have that high of a tolerance... it's not like i use benzo's recreationally every other day or anything.... i do it like once a month at MOST. Other than that, i take about a mg of kolonopin daily for my actual anxiety/panic problems.....

This is one of my favorite drugs, so i'm really peeved about this.... Any information you guys can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Benzhead

28-04-2005, 13:22

Your claim does stretch credulity. After 4 years of Clonazepam therapy, I can take large doses..8mg is no problem, but it took me years to develop the level of tolerance that taking this dosage would allow.

By the way, my prescribed dosage is 4mg/day..which may have some anxiolytic effect. I know that it does if I take 4mg at one dosing.

You could be getting bad benzos, but this is pretty uncommon.

What markings are on your Xanax(Alprazolam) pills?

club222

28-04-2005, 15:14

17mg and you would be out, unless if you have a super high tolerance. I
posted my story about my experience with Xanax in some topic in the
Benzo's forum. I was prescribed to it for years to help anxiety and
depression. I overdosed on about 12mg one night. Still not sure about
the exact amount since I didn't care at the time and just took them.
I've never met anybody with a tolerance that high, and even if yours
is, I wouldn't risk taking that much Xanax. The overdose isn't worth
it. Smoke some weed or something.

Malinovski

28-04-2005, 17:38

Benzhead

28-04-2005, 18:21

Good advice.

Sorry it had top happen to you.

Thanks for sharing, Igor.

It's best to give the balance of your pills to someone that won't give them back to you..under any circumstances.

Benzodiazepines are relatively safe. They are, after all toxins with a side effect desirable for treating a small number of relatively common conditions.

Be Safe!Edited by: benzhead

picpic

26-05-2005, 22:39

As long as you don't combine Alprazolam, it's very hard to OD on it. That's one of the reasons probably the most important reason why the benzodiazapines took place of barbiturates; it is very hard to OD on them. Iknow many people that took 30-40 mg.s without any tolarance and they woke up after a few days. I'm not saying that it's a smart thing to do but it's not as dangerous as poping lots of opiate pill.

dedly

29-05-2005, 11:25

i know what cleverdemise is talking about (and in anyway does that moniker refer to your last ditch escpse route?) i did the whole rainbow of tranks, seds, etc. snd found xanax fairly benign... i could take a fistfull and still funtion like a retarded drunk...
1 time in mexico, puerto valarta i think, and i samshed a jeep due to, get this, automatic driver acceration. it was the fucking jeep and we were fucked-up, but i'm sure it was a greasy scam...

greener

30-05-2005, 18:56

I also feel that 17 mgs seems pretty far-fetched... I've been
prescribed Xanax for years, and while I've never had a dangerous
overdose, I've certainly had entirely regrettable, uncomfortable, and
even downright scary experiences at doses under 12 mgs (and that was
after years of tolerance... Don't EVER try some ridiculous amount
like that without a complete knowledge of the drug's effect on
you). If you're only taking them once per month, you should have
no tolerance to speak of, despite how hardcore one might percieve
himself to be when it comes to pharms...

That said, I just wanted to add a note that it is never a good idea to
enter a situation under the impression that you already have a high
tolerance to a substance which is new to you. I know how it feels
to require much higher doses of MOST drugs than most people, but I have
also learned several times that I'm still a lightweight when it comes
to others. Start small, even if it means wasting a small amount
of the drug and not getting high as desired.

PenguinPhreak

30-05-2005, 20:30

Notice that he said he takes recreational</span>
doses once a month, but takes 2-3 .5mgs a day (and 1mgs prior to that).
I still find it hard to believe that you could develop that much of a
tolerance that quickly. If you did in fact take as much as you said you
did without experiencing hardly any effect, there has to be something
else at work here.

Tavz

31-05-2005, 18:15

powderhead55

29-03-2006, 01:05

anyone know the estimated limit for xanax? SWIM has 12 bars (2mg) with no tolerance (hasn't done XanaX before) this isn't a "how many can i do before i die" type of question, SWIM hopes it'll last him a couple weekends, it's just something that makes you more comfortable knowing

M3th

29-03-2006, 03:28

Some people it only takes 2 to attain a mellow high, some people take more. Just depends on the person.

Sitbcknchill

29-03-2006, 05:31

Here is some information regarding alprazolam it's rather long but it's pretty interesting read...

476

Xanax ( Alprazolam Intensol, Novo-Alprazol )
In Canada ( Apo-Alpzar, Nu-Alpraz )

Xanax ( Alprazolam ) is an anti-anxiety agent benzodiazepine used primarily for short-term relief of mild to moderate anxiety and nervous tension. Alprazolam is also effective in the treatment of activity depression or panic attacks. It can also be useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome and anxiety due to a neurosis. Xanax ( Alprazolam ) may help the symptoms of PMS if extreme, and, if given with various narcotics, the pain from some cancers. Xanax ( Alprazolam ) is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders, agoraphobia, essential tremor, fibromyalgia ( low dosage ), and ringing ears.

* Xanax ( Alprazolam ) is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines.
* Xanax ( Alprazolam ) affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
* Xanax ( Alprazolam ) may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

CLASS: Triazolo Benzodiazepines.
Generic name: Alprazolam.
Type: Anti anxiety.

Strengths:
Oral Solution: 0.25mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg / 5 ml, 0.25mg / 2.5 ml.
Tablets: 0.25mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg.

Normal dosage:
USE UP TO EIGHT MONTHS ONLY!
If under 18 years of age, DO NOT USE!

* 18 to 60 years of age, 0.25mg to 1.5mg daily.
* Over 60 years of age, lower dosage, increased cautiously.
* Dosages: Actual dosage must be determined by a physician.

Dosage Depends on Disorder:

* Oral (For anxiety or nervous tension):
Start : 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg 3 times daily.
Maximum : 4 mg in 24 hours.
* Oral (For panic disorder):
Start : 0.5 mg 3 times daily.
Increases : 1 mg daily in 3 to 4 day intervals.
Maximum : 10 mg in 24 hours.

Problems with:
Liver Function: If liver disease is present, start dosage at 0.25mg, increase as needed.
Kidney Function: N/A.

Testing:
Before taking: None if for short-term use.
While taking: None if for short-term use.

Take: With or without food. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Alprazolam (Xanax XR). Swallow whole.

Full Benefits: First day to a week.

Missed Dose(s): Take if within one hour ;if over an hour skip and then continue on your normal schedule. Never Take a Double Dose

To Stop Use: Do not stop without consulting your physician and never abruptly if you have been taking it for over three weeks. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in your dose.

Overdose symptoms include: Confusion, loss of consciousness or sleepiness. Can be fatal. Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of an Xanax ( Alprazolam ) overdose include:

* Sleepiness.
* Dizziness.
* Confusion.
* A slow heart beat.
* Difficulty breathing.
* Difficulty walking and talking.
* The appearance of being drunk.
* Unconsciousness.

Remember: Keep this and all other medicines out of the reach of children; never share your medicines with others and use this medication only for the indication prescribed.

Warnings

* Do not stop taking abruptly.
* Do not give this drug to anyone who is psychotic.
* Narcotics may increase the sedative effects of this drug.
* Do not take other sedatives, benzodiazepines,or sleeping pills with this drug. The combinations could be fatal.
* Do not drink alcohol when taking benzodiazepines. Alcohol can lower blood pressure and decrease your breathing rate to the point of unconsciousness.
* The habit-forming potential is high; it is possible to become dependent in the first few days.
* Do not stop taking this drug abruptly; this could cause psychological and physical withdrawal symptoms.
* Do not take Alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Alprazolam may worsen this condition.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have:

* kidney disease.
* liver disease.
* a history of alcohol or drug abuse.
* asthma or bronchitis.
* emphysema.
* any respiratory disease.
* depression or suicidal thoughts.
* mania.
* bipolar disorder.
* any psychiatric condition.

Use caution:

* Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities as Xanax ( Alprazolam ) may cause drowsiness or dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. (If it is definite that Xanax ( Alprazolam ) causes drowsiness you cannot then is “If you experience”)
* Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax ( Alprazolam ) . Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax ( Alprazolam ) .
* Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Alprazolam ( Xanax XR ). Swallow whole. These tablets are specially formulated to slowly release the medication in the body.
* Xanax ( Alprazolam ) is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication.
* Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than directed by your doctor.
* Withdrawal effects may occur if alprazolam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use.
* Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication.
* Xanax ( Alprazolam ) may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives ( used to treat insomnia ), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines and muscle relaxants.

Do not use if:

* you had negative reactions to other benzodiazepines
* you have a history of drug dependence.
* you have had a stroke.
* you have multiple sclerosis.
* you have Alzheimer's disease.
* you are seriously depressed or if you have other brain disorders.
* you have myasthenia gravis or acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
* you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
* you are breast-feeding.
* you are under eighteen, and only in small doses with very close monitoring if over sixty.

Inform Physician if: you have a seizure disorder, impaired liver / kidney function, history of alcoholism / drug abuse, psychosis, palpitations or tachycardia.

Xanax ( Alprazolam ) Symptoms or Effects

Common: Clumsiness, Sleepiness, Drowsiness, Dizziness, Depression, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea / Constipation, Difficulty urinating, Vivid dreams, Headache, Dry mouth, Decreased sex drive, and/or changes in behavior.

Rare: Abdominal cramps, blurred vision, dry mouth, racing heartbeat / palpitations, shaking / slurred speech, urination problems, convulsions,hallucinations, memory loss, trouble breathing, staggering / trembling, headache, confusion, sore breast / milk secretion, or irregular menstruation. ( Be consistent in what you capitalize in both “common” and “rare” . Either is fine, it just needs to be consistent. )

Always see physician for these side effects and for severe clumsiness and sleepiness.

See physician NOW:

* Convulsions, hallucinations, memory loss, trouble breathing or staggering / trembling.
* An allergic reaction (difficulty breathing, closing of the throat, swelling of the lips, face, or tongue or hives.)
* Sores in the mouth or throat.
* Yellowing of the skin or eyes.
* A rash.
* Hallucinations or severe confusion.
* Changes in vision.

If you experience any of the above serious side effects, stop taking Alprazolam and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately.

Other names by country:

* Xanax® - United States, Australia, United Kingdom
* Xanax XR® - (an extended release formulation) United States
* Apo-Alpraz® - Canada (also made by other companies under different names)
* Xanor® - Finland, Philippines, South Africa, Sweden
* Kalma® - Australia, New Zealand
* Ralozam® - Australia, New Zealand
* Zamhexal® - Australia
* Alplax® - Argentina
* Alviz® - Indonesia
* Alzolam® - India, Malaysia
* Alprax® - India
* Tranax® - India
* Restyl® - Bahrain, Cyprus, Egypt, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Qatar, Republic of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Syria, United Arab Emirates
* Tranquinal® - Ecuador, Peru
* Trankimazin® - Spain
* Tafil® - Costa Rica, Denmark, El Salvador, Germany, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Venezuela
* Tafil AP® - (an extended release formulation) Mexico
* Constan® - Japan
* Solanax® - Japan
* Zolarem® - Bahrain, Benin, Burkina-Faso, Cyprus, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Oman, Qatar, Republic of Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra-Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Syria, Tanzania, Tunia, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, Zambia, Zimbabwe
* Zoldac® - Benin, Burkina-Faso, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra-Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Tunia, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe
* Calmax® - Ireland

477

Xanax ( Alprazolam Intensol, Novo-Alprazol )
In Canada ( Apo-Alpzar, Nu-Alpraz )

XANAX (alprazolam tablets) is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Controlled clinical trials have demonstrated that XANAX is effective in the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder, anxiety associated with depression, and Panic Disorder with or without agoraphobia.

XANAX XR is a prescription medicine for the treatment of panic disorder. XANAX XR is a once daily formulation of XANAX® (alprazolam tablets).

XANAX XR allows patients to take a single daily dose rather than 3 to 4 times per day with XANAX.

About Xanax | Alprazolam Intensol

Xanax (alprazolam) is an anti-panic and anti-anxiety medication. Xanax is in the group of drugs known as benzodiazepines, a class of antidepressants, anti-panic agents, and muscle relaxants. Xanax is only available by prescription.

Xanax is usually used as a short term treatment for major anxiety and certain phobias. Xanax is not usually necessary to relieve everyday stress or anxiety.

Store Xanax away from light and heat. Xanax Side Effects

Xanax side effects are usually temporary, and fade with continued treatment. Higher dosage also increases the risk of side effects. Operating automobiles or heavy machinery is not recommended while taking Xanax. Be aware of how this medication affects you before attempting any potentially dangerous activities.

Common Xanax side effects: drowsiness, fatigue, light-headedness, or speech problems.

Less common Xanax side effects: abdominal cramps, constipation, dry mouth, hyperventilation, blurred vision, nausea, chest pain, change in sex drive, confusion, headache, change in appetite, insomnia, unusual dreams, change in salivation, low blood pressure, racing heartbeat, fainting, nasal congestion, difficulty urinating, sweating, weight change, skin irritation, twitching or tremors, nervous or anxious state, sun sensitivity, respiratory infection, memory impairment, menstrual difficulties, and loss of coordination. Speak to your doctor about any of these effects; your dosage may need to be adjusted or treatment discontinued.

Rare Xanax side effects: difficulty concentrating, slurred or unusual speech, double vision, fear, altered sense of taste, lack of inhibition, muscle cramps or spasms, urination problems, tingling, incontinence, warmth, weakness, change in muscle tone, or yellow eyes and skin. Speak to your doctor if you experience any of these effects; your treatment may need to be discontinued.

Xanax treatment should be discontinued if any of the following occur: hyperexcitement, muscle spasm, anxiety, hallucinations, rage or other hostile behavior, tremors, insomnia, sleeping difficulties or overstimulation.

Cautions: Xanax has been known to interact undesirably with certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor if you have, or have a history of, any of the following conditions:

* Alcohol or drug abuse - may increase likelihood of Xanax dependence
* Allergic reaction to Xanax, or other benzodiazepine. Always tell your doctor about any allergies before starting a medication.
* Borderline personality disorder or a history of violent behavior.
* Brain disease - may increase likelihood of side effects from Xanax
* Breathing difficulties such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or any other chronic lung disease - Xanax may worsen this condition.
* Difficulty swallowing - This condition may become more pronounced in children.
* Epilepsy or seizures - Abruptly starting or stopping treatment with Xanax may increase seizures. Although Xanax can be used as an aid to anti-tremor therapy, it should be used cautiously and strictly according to a doctor's instructions in these cases.
* Glaucoma - Xanax should not be prescribed to patients with acute narrow-angle glaucoma. Patients receiving treatment for open angle glaucoma should consult their doctor, as Xanax may be an acceptable treatment for them.
* Hyperactivity
* Kidney or liver problems - In isolated cases, Xanax has been reported to cause jaundice. If you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical treatment immediately. More Xanax may end up in your bloodstream if you have a pre-existing kidney or liver condition, increasing the likelihood of side effects.
* Major Depression
* Myasthenia gravis - This autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle weakness may be aggravated by Xanax treatment.
* Porphyria - Xanax (alprazolam) is listed as an unsafe drug for porphyria, an enzyme deficiency that can cause fragile skin that is sensitive to sunlight, digestive difficulties, anxiety, and reddish-brown urine.
* Psychosis or other serious mental illness - Xanax has not proved to be an effective treatment for these conditions, and is not recommended.
* Sleep apnea (temporary suspension of breathing during sleep) - Xanax may worsen this condition. Individuals with sleep apnea should not generally use sedatives as sleep aids. (See Sleep Disorders)

Dependence: Xanax has been known to be habit-forming. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if treatment is discontinued abruptly. Follow your doctor's advice about how much, and how often, you should take Xanax. If you are considering stopping Xanax treatment, ask your doctor how to safely decrease and then stop Xanax. Xanax Interactions

Xanax slows the central nervous system, and should be taken with care with medications that do the same thing. When Xanax is taken with certain other medications, the rate of side effects may increase, and the action of either medication may be increased or altered. Certain medications can cause an undesirable build-up of Xanax in the body. Ask your doctor's advice about combining Xanax with any of the following:

* Alcohol - Xanax should not be mixed with alcohol, it increases the risk of overdose and fatal toxicity.
* Agenerase (amprenavir)
* Any medication which may cause drowsiness
* Antibiotics (esp. macrolide antibiotics) like azithromycin, biaxin, clarythromycin, or erythromycin
* Antihistamines like Tavist or Benadryl
* Adalat, Procardia (nifedipine)
* Antabuse (disulfiram)
* Antiseizure medication like Cerebyx (fosphenytoin), Dilantin (phenytoin), or Tegretol (carbamazepine).
* Benzodiazepines of any other type, such as Valium (diazepam), Halcion (triazolam), Restoril (temazepam), Librium (chlordiazepoxide), Tranxene-SD (clorazepate), Paxipam (halazepam), ProSom (estazolam), Klonopin (clonazepam)
* BuSpar (buspirone) - Can result in oversedation.
* Cardene (nicardipine)
* Cordarone (amiodarone)
* Desyrel (trazodone) - Risk of additive CNS depression.
* Diflucan (fluconazole)
* Ergotamine derivatives
* Grapefruit juice
* Kava kava - Do not take this herb while taking Xanax.
* Lanoxin (digoxin)
* MAO inhibitors such as the antidepressants Nardil or Parnate.
* Narcotic analgesics of any kind, like Darvon (propoxyphene), Darvocet (propoxyphene, acetaminophen), Demerol (meperidine), Codeine, Percocet (oxycodone, acetaminophen), Vicodin (hydrocodone, acetaminophen), Vicoprofen (hydrocodone and ibuprofen) or OxyContin (oxycodone) may accelerate central nervous system or respiratory depression when taken with Xanax. Also, Xanax may decrease the effectiveness of these medications as pain relievers.
* Norflex (orphenadrine) - Risk of oversedation.
* Neoral, Sandimmune (cyclosporine)
* Nicotine - Heavy smoking may reduce the effectiveness of your treatment.
* Nizoral (ketoconazole) - Xanax should not be mixed with this antifungal medication.
* Oral contraceptives - May increase the effects of Xanax.
* Prilosec (omeprazole) - May increase the effects of Xanax.
* Rescriptor (delavirdine)
* Rifamate (isoniazid), Rifater (rifampin), or Mycobutin (rifabutin)
* Sedatives like Fioricet (butalbital, acetaminophen, and caffeine), Fiorinal (butalbital, aspirin, and caffeine), Phenobarbitol, Seconal, or other barbiturates
* Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Celexa (citalopram), Paxil (paroxetine), Prozac (fluoxetine), Luvox (fluvoxamine), or Zoloft (sertraline).
* Serzone (nefazodone)
* Skeletal muscle relaxants such as Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine), Skelaxin (metaxalone), Soma (carisoprodol), or Robaxin (methocarbamol) may cause oversedation in combination with this medication.
* Sleep medication like Ambien (zolpidem), Sonata (zaleplon), or over the counter sleeping pills should be used with Xanax only as, and if, advised by your doctor.
* Sporanox (itraconazole) - Xanax should not be mixed with this antifungal medication.
* Street drugs - Marijuana may increase sedative effects from Xanax.
* St. John's Wort - Do not take this herb while taking Xanax.
* Tagamet (cimetidine)
* Tranquilizers such as Haldol (haloperidol), Mellaril (thioridazine), or Thorazine (chlorpromazine) may cause oversedation.
* Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil (amitriptyline), Asendin (amoxapine), Anafranil (clomipramine), Pertofrane or Norpramin (desipramine), Sinequan (doxepin), Tofranil (imipramine), Aventyl or Pamelor (nortriptyline), Vivactil (protriptyline), and Surmontil (trimipramine), may increase the risk of side effects from Xanax.
* Valerian - Do not take this herb while taking Xanax.

Talk with your doctor if you are considering mixing an antidepressant and anxiety medication like Xanax with any other antidepressant, or any medication that may cause drowsiness. Anxiety medication can have increased, unexpected, or severe side effects when mixed with other medications that affect the central nervous system. Stimulants of any type may blunt the effectiveness of Xanax. Xanax Dosages

Xanax comes in doses of .25 mg (white oval tablet), .5 mg (pink oval tablet), 1 mg (blue oval tablet), and 2mg (white oblong tablet, scored). The usual starting dose is .25-.5 mg, 3-4 times per day, up to a maximum of 4-6 mg per day, divided among several doses.

Xanax should be taken exactly as your doctor recommends. Don't take more or less than prescribed, and don't double your doses if you should miss one. Take your doctor's advice about how quickly or slowly to ease off Xanax treatment if you plan to stop taking it. Xanax should not be started or stopped abruptly, as it strongly increases the likelihood of side effects. If you have a convulsive disorder, or experience severe muscle spasming, abruptly stopping or starting Xanax could increase these effects.

Xanax overdose symptoms can include confusion, poor coordination, sleepiness, or coma. Seek medical treatment immediately if you suspect an overdose. Xanax and Pregnancy

Xanax is not recommended for women who are breastfeeding, pregnant, or planning to become pregnant. Xanax could cause breathing problems or muscle weakness in an infant. Also, a newborn whose mother had been taking Xanax might experience withdrawal symptoms.

Other benzodiazepines, similar to Xanax, have been seen to cause an increase in birth defects. While Xanax has not been demonstrated to be a high risk factor for birth defects, the possibility exists that it could increase their likelihood. Xanax and Children

Xanax has not been studied for use in children. Xanax and Seniors

Older adults taking Xanax are usually encouraged to start with smaller doses (.25 mg 3-4 times per day) and limit intake to the smallest effective dose. Seniors are more likely to become too heavily sedated, or experience decreased muscle coordination. What Xanax Treats

Xanax has been prescribed as a treatment for:

* Anxiety disorder characterized by unrealistic fears and excessive worries.
* Panic Disorder, sometimes accompanied by fear of open spaces (agoraphobia).
* Also for the temporary symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, depression, fear of strangers, irritable bowel, and premenstrual syndrome. Dosage varies.
* Xanax may be prescribed in low doses to treat fibromyalgia.

Xanax is a trademark of Pharmacia & Upjohn

Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during treatment with alprazolam without first talking to your doctor. • Alprazolam may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor. • Antacids may decrease the effects of alprazolam. Separate doses of an antacid and alprazolam by several hours whenever possible. • Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with alprazolam. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

How it works:

Increases the action of GABA.

478

calmascanbe

29-03-2006, 16:46

If you have no tollerance 2mg. will do you fine. If you do more you might forget the the experiance .Do too mouch and you'll sleep through it. Be carefull for the first time.
Why do you ask?

Forthesevenlakes

02-06-2006, 02:32

swim's lab rat blacked out on 2 mg during his first trial with xanax. he was completely lucid, social, even insightful, but the next day had no memory of what had happened the night before. swim would say start with 1 mg and see how swiy feels an hour and a half later, maybe have a friend of the lab rat present to let the lab rat know how he/she is acting...

Fantasian

09-06-2006, 20:42

I built up a tolerance to Xanax in two months time and by the end of the 2nd month could easily take 20mgs and not feel much. Now people on here can tell me Im full of shit and theres no way I could take that amount without passing out but its true. We are on the internet, why would I or cleverdemise lie?

I dont believe either of you im sorry,

The only possible explanation that i can come up with is that you are taking timed release xanax. A dosing for 15mg would easily knock a tolerant person unconcious never mind 17 or 20. But taking 20 and not feeling much! Benzo tolerance can develop quickly but not that quickly, Even if one were to take massive dosages regularly tolerance could not develop that quickly.

On a side note im not really sure what the posative aspect is about taking large doses of Benzo's? Is there really any recreational aspect to ODing?

IHrtHalucingens

09-06-2006, 21:05

In SWIMs experience tolerance to xanax develops very very quickly. He has used 4mg one day and gotten great results then 30mg the next day with less effect than the 4mg from the day earlier.

It seems to depend on the person and their use. SWIM has taken over 17mg of xanax many times before without being knocked out or even close to it. He took the large dose chasing the euphoria experienced at lower doses with no tolerance. Moderation is key, only use recreationally a couple times a month otherwise youll end up taking extreme doses with no effect.

fatal

10-06-2006, 01:14

dying is rather unpleasant... or so i hear... rather undesirable at least... if you would wish to avoid this side effect please refrain from taking in excess of 10 of any pill... especially highly potent benzodiazepines... also consider the fact that if you continue to use this drug especially in these unreasonable seemingly far fetched amounts that when you stop you will experience heavy benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms which is extremely unpleasant... be safe... please dont mislead any of the more naive members of this community to think that this is ok acceptable safe or any other such thing... it is not any of those things and talking about it really isnt either...

:joint:

Wyborowa

20-06-2006, 05:12

withdrawing from benzo's is soooooooooooo much worse than gettin off opiates...if u can't get off opiates, benzo's are gonna kill ya...

hh339

20-06-2006, 10:10

Cleverdemise, I will not call you a liar: SWIM has done a lot of benzos and has gone far far beyond 20 mgs of alprazolam without falling asleep. Even SWIMS girl who was 18 at the time used to take 200 mgs of diazepam or up to 50 mgs of alprazolam, not at once but over a few hours. SWIM developed a strong tolerance very quickly and even got to the point where he took over 150 mgs of alprazolam in one day. Please people, dont call SWIM a liar. Anyway, doing that will most likely get SWIY killed(eating too much benzos, not calling SWIM a liar;)), and that is exactly what almost happened to SWIM. Benzos are highly addictive, be extremely careful and dont get carried away. Everyone should start low, and never ever go to high. I dont know what it is with Swedish people, but here 200 mgs of diazepam is considered an average dose among the users. 20-40 mgs of alprazolam is also considered average here. It will fuck people up beyond belief, but sadly enough that is what people around here is after.

BUZZFACTOR

29-06-2006, 23:07

I have lots of experience w/xanax. took it for years for generalized anxiety disorder. 2mg. for a benzo niave person would probably be too sedating unless that's what you're after. Keep in mind that smoking inhibits effectiveness of benzos. I don't recommend prolonged use of benzos kicking them is murder, siezures, all kinds of nightmare shit. One thing i did find very enjoyable was the combo of 40mg. methadone diskit and 2mg. xanax strip. Smooth buzz, nod city don't overdue it though.

Wraith

10-07-2006, 05:40

edit* 2.-2.5 was what MY FLAMINGO started at and it hit her real good.

*Please avoid self-incrimination: Thank you*

Colby

09-08-2006, 04:43

Overdosing on xanax is very serious swim friend overdosed and ended up in the hospital after passing out in his food with his family at a dinner, so becareful with xanax it is 1 strong drug.

allyourbase

12-10-2006, 18:15

SWIM knows of people whove overdosed from as little as 12 mg (and died sadly). SWIM has, in a nihilistic self destructive state, eaten well over 180 mg and not bought the farm. so it all depends on ones physiology. no doubt colby. people dont take xanax seriously perhaps because of its low scheduling under the law. but all who take it should be aware it is a SERIOUS effector. a depressant with a lot of "use me again" qualities that can leave one in quite the state of dependance.

wellhelm

12-10-2006, 18:27

180mgs is insaine, is that even possibile. Swim is curious as to the time period that 180mg's of xanax were ate. How long was swiy's blackout?

allyourbase

12-10-2006, 18:40

12 hours after being fed charcoal. no telling how much swims body absorbed before medics arrived. swim was sick for two weeks after. very weak stomach, absolutely NO coordination or balance. not a pleasant experience whatsoever.

wellhelm

12-10-2006, 18:50

yeh, now it does'nt sound like bullshit. Glad your all right. In high school swim took 20mgs or so at one time and went to sleep with no smoke's and 5 bucks and woke up with no 5 bucks, smoke's, and his budy's car keys in his pocket. He secretly placed his budy's keys on the table and claimed ignorance as to the missing gas. To this day swim has no idea what happend that night. Xanax can be dangerous, as swim's both allready know, when used inapropriatly

Riconoen {UGC}

12-10-2006, 22:45

I doubt it, most benzos will make you black out well before overdose and xanax is no different. swim once took 6mg's of kpin for kicks the next thing he knew he woke up in his ez chair 16 hours later still stoned out of his mind. he never repeated that experience again and limits his kpin recreational use to 3mg's at the most.

Sitbcknchill

12-10-2006, 22:56

Overdose of alprazolam has been shown to cause somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma, as well as death. Fatality is made much more likely by the intake of alcohol.

The LD50 of alprazolam in rats is 331 to 2171 mg/kg. Other animal experiments have been done to show that direct intravenous introduction of doses over 195 mg/kg (975 times the maximum human dosage of 10mg per day) may cause cardiopulmonary collapse. Animals could be resuscitated with positive mechanical ventilation and the intravenous infusion of norepinephrine bitartate. The studies suggest that forced diuresis or hemodialysis are of little use in treating overdosage.

In the case of an alprazolam overdose, general supportive measures should be taken, along with immediate gastric lavage. Flumenazil is a specific benzodiazepine receptor antagonist and is indicated for partial or complete reversal of the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, though it is not to be considered a complete course for the treatment of overdosage of benzodiazepines, and carries a risk of seizure..........

Sklander

14-10-2006, 01:52

Great thread. Lots of top notch information.

The way SWIM understands it is Benzo's are relatively safe as far as LD50 goes, but the things that one can do while blacked out on Alprazolam are only limited by ones own imagination.

Be careful... especially if SWIY is going to be drinking. Alcohol potentiates the effects of Benzo's to an extreme degree. DO NOT OPERATE MACHINES.

Jatelka

14-10-2006, 08:39

SWIJ will just add that where she is Flumazenil is ONLY indicated for iatrogenic (ie doctor induced) benzo od: Say if someone was oversedated as part of a medical procedure.

It is never used in recreational/suicidal intent od because of the risk of the person being an habitual user and precipitating withdrawal seizures.

monkeygone2heaven

19-10-2006, 22:00

swim almost died from xanax overdose because she thought noone could die from a few pills. you see in movies people downing a hundred pills (< (< (< -- apparently not necessarily the case for xanax. be careful.

now another swim's experience is that xanax puts her to sleep and there isn;t much to "recreationally" experience anyway. sometimes sleep can be good like if you have an anxiety disorder or something which is what this thng is for...

anyway, be really careful with this. swim has seen bad stuff happen, bad night at ER, 3 days in intensive care and so on with swim who wanted to have some fun, not kill themselves!

psyche

26-10-2006, 00:03

I think I've posted this already somewhere in detail, but SWIM also did something unbelievably stupid after unknown quantity of xanax. He went to buy beer by motorcycle. He once fell in the cityarea(in front of an emergency by coincidense) but managed to go on and went to have a couple of beers in a bar. In the way back he had really bad double vision and it was completely dark, so couple of times he drifted out of the road but got back. After getting home and starting to drink beer he suddenly woke up with a beerbottle in his hand and with a hazy recollection of the nigh. The dose was propably around 20mg because they were all gone.

That was his first time with benzos and he couldn't believe he had kept eating more xanaxes than he would ever considered taking when sober. And then driving to a nearest city when it required quite a concentration to even walk. So be careful and deside the dose beforehand.

Nicaine

26-10-2006, 08:24

people dont take xanax seriously perhaps because of its low scheduling under the law. but all who take it should be aware it is a SERIOUS effector. a depressant with a lot of "use me again" qualities that can leave one in quite the state of dependance.
SWIM agrees... not only is it addictive, but it has a certain "fiend-ish" quality that's really unusual for benzos... SWIM hasn't found other benzos so nice to use over & over again. He takes clonazepam as prescribed, but doesn't really dare use X because he's been addicted to it once and thinks it'd be likely to happen again.

Maybe that desirable quality is what makes it recreational though, dunno... if SWIY can't get it often (or feels they can keep a substance like that under control), enjoy...

stophate

26-10-2006, 17:28

Xanax can be great, but last time SWIM used it he drove his car into a bayou. Not because SWIM passed out or anything but because he felt like cutting the wheel hard for no reason. Because SWIM was on bars he felt relaxed while getting out of his vehicle, while it was sinking, and was able to save the important stuff in the car (ipod, registration papers & insurance). The cops showed up soon after and gave SWIM a ticket for reckless operation; they didnt even question SWIM's sobriety even though SWIM would clearly have been labeled as trashed by his friends. SWIM thinks that xanax is nice but the memory loss and desire for more is a bummer.

stophate

26-10-2006, 17:34

On the above occasion SWIM snorted 3mg and swallowed 3mg.

Sklander

27-10-2006, 00:25

Xanax is great for coming down off of better drugs like LSD, mushrooms and cocaine.

Its recreational use is best for sitting on the couch and playing video games thinking that SWIY is the best video game player ever!

wildbeast

18-11-2006, 03:57

I've never taken Xanax except as prescribed. The only "high" that I've known is the relief from getting rid of my anxiety.

Fortunately I get much fewer panic attacks these days so the Xanax stays on the shelf. Sometimes don't even take it with me when knowing in advance I'm travelling across high bridges. Now THAT is progress folks.

Anxiety attacks are a real bitch and i can't help but think that certain recreational drugs may play a part in the devlopment of Panic Attack disorders or Agorophobia etc.

benzoaddict

26-02-2007, 03:08

Swim has done a lot of xanax, he used to use it to intensify heroin for a cheaper buzz. Over time he gained such a tolerance to it that he can eat 10 bars now and not even get drowsy. He still craves the effect to the point of obsession, but cannot get it. Xanax is heaven at first, like the answer to all your problems, you just dont care. Once swiy gets to the point where it doesnt work anymore though, and swiy remembers that heaven you used to feel, swim tells me it sucks in an incredible fashion. If swiy has never done it before, swiy would be doing themselves one of the greatest favors of their lives to just throw the shit away and forget about it. Burn some trees and fuck the hardcore, while swiy still can.

socalsuperbike

16-06-2007, 09:04

hey everyone im new here and I love this site, the only time I ever did Xanax I took two 2mg bars and have no recolection of the night, I did wake up the next morning with a totalled car and was told that I was at dennys eating, finished my food and then crawled out and into my car without paying hahah i wish I was there

Jatelka

16-06-2007, 09:40

Welcome socalsuperbike. Before proceeding further you MUST read the rules here...

http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/misc.php?do=cfrules

Do NOT incriminate yourself. Use SWIM (Someone Who Isn't Me) or something similar when discussing extra curricular activities. Please bear in mind that not abiding by the rules here can and WILL get SWIY banned

Thank You

keats

06-07-2007, 02:27

Of all the stupid things SWIM did with drugs (and there were plenty) the stupidest might have involved xanax. One night he was bored and without any other "real" drugs, so he decided to down an entire bottle of xanax he'd been skimming off his legit perscription. Was 15mg at least, with a pretty small (.5 a day) tolerance. SWIM had read enough to know this wasn't a lethal dose, and had the half life of ~11 hours in mind, and in his idiotic burned out state forgot that meant when HALF of it was eliminated, not all. Was basically completely fucked up, couldn't remember anything for more than 10 seconds for 36 hours and then just pretty out of it for another 36. Definately a really, really bad idea, SWIM's mom thought he'd gone insane, think he said he had a fever or something but he can't remember anymore.

Laudaphun

11-07-2007, 07:32

Swim can relate the story of a friend who had never taken xanax before and came across a bottle of 1mg alprazolam tablets (xanax). Of course, being that they were 1mg pills meant nothing to swim at the time. Swim and his friend were sitting in 9th grade driver's education class, it was their 3rd class period of the day out of 8. Swim was skeptical, having read in his health book that they were a tranquillizer just like valium. But when he told his friend this, Swim's friend said, "LOL nah man, valiums great... these couldn't be valium". Swim's friend wanted to take 10 of the pills, but swim didn't think this was a good idea. Swim's friend insisted that he would need to take many of them since the pills were so small. Swim wouldn't give him 10 though, fearing for his friends saftey. Swim's friend said, "just give me 10, and you only take 5." Swim still didn't trust taking that many of this xanax (alprazolam) that he never heard of until reading about it in his health text book. Finally he gave in and gave his friend 5 pills. Swim took only 1 1/2 himself. Swim's friend asked him if he could have 3 more for "later". Swim hestitantly gave them to him, making him promise to not take them until later... of course swim's friend popped the additional 3 the second swim wasn't looking. The last thing swim's friend said to him when the bell rang and they headed their separate way was, "man, these things are kickin my ass."

To sum up the story, swim was walking around in a daze from 1 1/2 of the things... Then he began to hear everyone talking about his friend trying to eat at lunch, missing his mouth with his spoon... poking himself in random spots in the face with it as he hadn't the coordination to get it in his mouth... and then finally falling into the garbage can when he went to throw his garbage away. The next thing swim knew, he saw his friend on a stretcher lying passed out in the nurse's office. That was probably one of the scariest times in swim's life.

Swim's friend was fine, they didn't even pump his stomach, they just let him sleep it off... for about 2 days. All in all, swim's friend took 8mg alprazolam, never having ever heard of it.

Seeing his friend in the stretcher would be the last time swim saw his friend for several years as he got banned from swim's high school for the use of drugs on school property and had to move away to live with his sister.

Orchid_Suspiria

11-07-2007, 08:12

Thats the thing about alprazolam(xanax)as someone mentioned before,they have this quality that makes a person want to just keep taking more.No other benzodiazepine or any drug seems to have this quality as much as alprazolam does.Swim has taken some pretty massive doses of this stuff.Last summer swim had a supplier that always had them and swim would almost always get a massive amount.Up to thirty or more at a time on somedays.One day swim had alot of them and he decided to go for a record.The reason why xanax have this take more and more quality is because they are fast acting and have a short half life.That good,calm feeling comes and goes and a person just wants more and more.

Anyways this day swim just laid around in his room listening to music and eating alprazolam.Well he managed to take 15!Luckily nothing bad happened other than swim blacking out and waking up the next day wondering why he was missing so many of his xanax.

soma

01-10-2007, 12:58

SWIM loves Xanax, and his 'sweet spot' is 4mg - but if he falls asleep (which he can prevent if he is active) he has amnesia. If he remains active, he has no amnesia, but is very sociable, talkative, relaxed and euphoric.

2mg is a good starting dose, in his opinion. 2mg will still bring a smile to one's face and sitting in a good sofa will be an amazing experience.

dirtyp

01-10-2007, 15:48

conclusion, xanax overdose is not possible, only in combination with alcohol (maby)

Laudaphun

05-10-2007, 04:30

I am going to refrain from posting my thoughts on the previous post, I will only say that anyone reading this thread with the same question in mind as the original thread starter should ignore the last post

Jatelka

05-10-2007, 06:33

conclusion, xanax overdose is not possible, only in combination with alcohol (maby)

Actually dirtyp, there is quite a lot of evidence that Alprazolam is more toxic than other benzodiazepines in overdose.

See here...

http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/local_links.php?action=jump&id=1309&catid=129

hh339

05-10-2007, 07:50

???

You can OD and die with any benzo. That's just the way it is. Misinformation can also kill, remember that.

soma

05-10-2007, 13:09

Completely true, a local newspaper reported that a young man died after taking 29 alprazolam 2mg tablets (or "bars").

dirtyp

05-10-2007, 13:25

i realy dindn't know that, i thought you just fel asleep thats all. swim once took a whole bottle 50 pills of 2mg, he was high, but swim has high tollerance to benzo's

soma

05-10-2007, 20:06

Dirty,
Most benzos have a MUCH higher LD50 (lethal dose) than does alprazolam. For example, people have taken over 500 tablets of Diazepam and lived to tell the tale. Certainly, no on assume this is by any means safe- everyone is affected differently by medication. However, as alprazolam is a triazolo-benzodiazepine, not a typical benzo, it appears it can be more lethal in certain individuals. The only other triazolo-benzo I know of is triazolam/Halcion. Also dirty, I bet you felt bad when you noticed that there were 50 xanax killed in a night, I know I'd be pissed at myself. Such a waste of good drugs :)

Matt The Funk

07-10-2007, 02:07

SWIM's personal sweet spot for xanax(if he has decided to refrain from taking them for a few days) is 3-4mg. Anymore and it's a bit of overkill. If consumed with alcohol 1mg-2mg with a beer or two is how he rolls. But he also takes .5(or more) 3 times daily....but has been trying to stop doing this. SWIM believes xanax is GREAT for anxiety, and thats partially why he uses it, and alcohol, but the euphoria that goes with it(and alcohol) makes it really addictive. And the most SWIM has taken is 3mg with a few glass's of kahlua and milk, and then 2 hours later 3mg with 4 shots of whiskey and 3 shots of tequila. Swim felt great until something disturbed him emotionally(he is bi-polar, but believes it was just the alcohol) and he left the party walking intoxicated out of his mind and broke his cell phone(along with a few mail boxes). He was stopped by security(gated community) and they let him get a cab home, and let him off with a warning because they liked him. Most of the night is a blur but the end is some what clear as he was sobering up when security got him. And keep in mind his tolerance. I have seen people take 4mg and act like E-tards, and others take the same and only seem drunk, who knows. Know yourself, your source, etc...

merecat

24-11-2007, 13:26

SWIM overdosed on Xanax. She had had a little experience with them (never more than 4mg); and no tolerance at the time.

She had planned on taking no more than 7-8 1mg pills. Something happened however, and she just kept taking them. It was a Sunday afternoon. She passed out and slept for 36 hours. Whe she woke up she was very surprised to learn that it was Tuesday, and that she had lost an entire day.

She doesn't remember taking any pills beyond 7-8, however there were 19 missing from the blister pack. SWIM had unintentionally taken 19mg and slept through her boyfriend's birthday.

SWIM would like to agree that anything over 4mg is a waste.

bineon

11-04-2008, 07:01

SWIM has taken as much as around 8mg in a sitting. Thank god the pills he had were .25s and not 1 or 2mgs or else he would have sure just kept eating them easy. He likes to snort .5mg and eat 2.5mgs. He actually finds redosing more of a problem with Zolpidem as it inebriates you quite a bit more/easily than Alprazolam.

xmaster23

11-05-2008, 23:29

hey guys whats up.. i just took last night 2mg of alprazolam for the first time and smoke some weed... although i didnt feel much i did felt it alittle bit and then fell asleep... so next try i wanna try with a little bit more anyway i was wondering.. is there a lethal dose with alprazolam?

moda00

12-05-2008, 01:14

Please read the rules and do not self incriminate. I presume maybe you mis-typed, and that it was SWIM (someone who isn't you) you were referring to?

One thinks it would be safe to try increasing by 0.5 to 1 milligrams of alprazolam at a time and see how that does swiy when finding their dosage in general. That said, try it alone to understand the effects without weed, and if one does it at bedtime one may be asleep while its effects would be working, as it is a sedative, and if one is tired and it is nighttime, and one smokes, one may have just fallen asleep before it could affect one, or even fallen asleep due to the drug's sedative properties. So perhaps swiy could try a 1-2 mg dose during the day and without weed before upping things in that particular situation. For a first time user 2 mg may have been enough to knock swiy out, as swim's seen new users get faded on less than that...

Swim has low/normal benzo tolerance. If she hasn't done benzos in awhile she will feel 1-2 mg of alprazolam pretty good, if she has done them recently she may take more like 3 mg, but everyone responds differently, she hasn't taken or needed more than 3 mg.

The search is a good tool to find past threads on topics, I suggest someone might find some good info in this thread (found by searching "alprazolam lethal dose") it has lots of experiences and opinions and may give one some more perspective.. do be careful, better safe than sorry.
http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17233

In swim's opinion it shouldn't usually take more than 4-5 mg to 'get off' recreationally, although more may not kill you, it could certainly knock you out or lead to one doing very stupid things one doesn't recall- example would be driving under the influence and getting in an accident or robbing a pharmacy (both stories I've read reported here on DF I believe), or in the thread is the example of one who took 8 mg, blacked out, and ended up eating the other 22 mg for a total of 30 and waking in the ER) and one should be very careful about issues of tolerance and combining with other drugs.

It seems that overdoses seem to come in between 10-30mg from what swim has read, but they do have a pretty wide safety margin between a dose that will get one high or knock one out and one that will be lethal, so just dose responsibly and know swiy's limits by testing the waters slowly. Enjoy!

hey guys whats up.. swim just took last night 2mg of alprazolam for the first time and smoked some weed... although swim didnt feel much s/he did felt it a little bit and then fell asleep... so next time swim wants to try with a little bit more anyway s/he was wondering.. is there a lethal dose with alprazolam?

Ididnotinhale

12-05-2008, 02:37

Ididnotinhale

12-05-2008, 02:41

Everyone is different, swim has taken up to 17 mg of Klonopin in one night and really didn't feel to much, but he has been 3mg a day for about a year.

moda00

12-05-2008, 03:17

In swims pharmacology class he was told that it is nearly impossible to kill oneself with benzos because surprisingly the body will puke it up. The only danger is choking on ones own vommit. This does not hold true with rophynol which is easy to OD on.
If one has benzos with even a tiny bit of alcohol, opiates, or just about any downer then it is very easy to OD due to the synergy.
Even though it is hypothetically very difficult to OD on xanax (alprazolam) please do not try to test your limits!
Even if one doesn't OD the user will likely forget what's going on and could start to drink or take other drugs and kill themselves.
swim forgot to mention that although it may be "difficult" to kill oneself on benzos alone, it is very easy to put yourself in temporary coma which can seriously damage your brain.
Once again, be careful.Hmm, swim has not known benzos to cause nausea but could see how any substance in toxic amounts could cause vomiting.. that said, wouldn't that depend on how quickly the substance is absorbed, the type of benzo, the dose, the form (pharma pills, pure powders, EX vs IR), and the method of intake?

Of course there are other methods of ingestion- though, with benzos, often less frequently utilized and less effective- that would bypass the stomach entirely.. However, even if this is presumed true for oral dosing alone, which is most common, taking all the different factors into account, wouldn't that mean that the body would have to have a set cut-off point to know when it had to puke to interrupt absorption in time to prevent death, and take into account things like delayed absorption with time release pills vs. immediate release, and the fact that some will inevitably remain in the stomach and in the bloodstream following vomiting?

Or if the statement that the body will respond by puking (or perhaps more likely passing out, or both, something/anything to stop absorption and/or ingestion- which are obviously two very different concepts, and also having to do with a variety of factors and whether the overdose was accidental or intentional, which are obviously two very different scenarios) before death can occur, then that is simply a contrived way of conveying the idea of benzodiazepines having a wide "margin of error.." But if that is what was meant we cannot generalize that the only danger of overdose is choking on one's own vomit.. because I am sure that there have been cases of alprazolam- and other benzodiazepine- overdose that have resulted in death, which one unless one wants to say that in those cases this puking mechanism failed, it would seem more reasonable to say there is no guarantee

It just doesn't seem logical, although perhaps I am reading too much into it- do you think perhaps they meant that because there is such a large "margin of error" with most benzodiazepines that vomiting and/or loss of consciousness will often occur before a lethal dose is reached by ingesting pills? Anyone know more?

Thanks for the post emphasizing caution in dosing and for sharing that in context, I don't mean to criticize your post, simply responding to the idea that swiy shared was presented by that instructor and wondering if either swiy could clarify if the instructor explained this further, or in the context what s/he meant by that? Anyone who has knowledge of benzos feel free to chime in, would be nice to clarify what is behind this rather vague statement about benzodiazepine overdose, as I don't know much about it? And important to discuss the idea of differences between overdose potential and toxicity between different benzodiazepine type drugs.

And as for "Rohypnol" (flunitrazepam), is this really pharmacologically that dissimilar from all other benzodiazepines, as to be the only one which can cause overdose? I know the initial post is about alprazolam lethal dose, which as at least one study I have seen (I believe it is already in the archive, I'll find the link and add it), may be more toxic than other non-triazolo-benzos in excessive dosage.. Is there reason to believe that this property is the cause of excess risks associated with flunitrazepam, which (correct me if I am wrong) is also a triazolo-benzodiazepine? Or are there excessive risks with flunitrazepam other than those commonly known by its media reputation, which have nothing to do with its lethal dose but rather its potential to render one unconscious or cause memory loss? Interested to hear the pharmacology behind this.. thanks.
EDIT: Never mind I take it back apparently flunitrazepam is a nitro benzodiazepine!! So if not its classification based on the molecular structure, then what is it that would make flunitrazepam the most risky for overdose, or was that statement simply in regard to its misuse by dosing others without their knowledge in order to commit an assault, which would obviously create a higher risk situation in general because of the unknown dose being consumed, and any unknown factors like health conditions, other drugs or medications the person is on, alcohol consumed, etc.

Also this is the study I was referring to, it is already in the Archive:
http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/local_links.php?action=jump&id=1309&catid=129
and there is one other relevant study, an interesting overview of alprazolam that may help us to more knowledgeably discuss relevant issues of pharmacology and toxicity:
http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/local_links.php?action=jump&id=2985&catid=129

trptamene

12-05-2008, 04:10

A quick google search for the ld50 gave

The acute LD50 of alprazolam in rats is 331 to 2171 mg/kg

on a few websites, not sure of the orig. source.

rxbandit

12-05-2008, 05:24

I have seen fellow swimmers tank aprazolam... this did not end in fatality but one swimmer ended up hitting his girlfriend, then hitting a cop that arrived because of this then running in a zig zag pattern until tackled and another managed to beat up some ten year olds playing basketball at the YMCA. I'm sure those two fellows wished the stuff would have killed them, once they sobered up...

trptamene

12-05-2008, 20:04

Solinari

12-05-2008, 20:36

And as for "Rohypnol" (flunitrazepam), is this really pharmacologically that dissimilar from all other benzodiazepines, as to be the only one which can cause overdose? I know the initial post is about alprazolam lethal dose, which as at least one study I have seen (I believe it is already in the archive, I'll find the link and add it), may be more toxic than other non-triazolo-benzos in excessive dosage.. Is there reason to believe that this property is the cause of excess risks associated with flunitrazepam, which (correct me if I am wrong) is also a triazolo-benzodiazepine? Or are there excessive risks with flunitrazepam other than those commonly known by its media reputation, which have nothing to do with its lethal dose but rather its potential to render one unconscious or cause memory loss? Interested to hear the pharmacology behind this.. thanks.
EDIT: Never mind I take it back apparently flunitrazepam is a nitro benzodiazepine!! So if not its classification based on the molecular structure, then what is it that would make flunitrazepam the most risky for overdose, or was that statement simply in regard to its misuse by dosing others without their knowledge in order to commit an assault, which would obviously create a higher risk situation in general because of the unknown dose being consumed, and any unknown factors like health conditions, other drugs or medications the person is on, alcohol consumed, etc.

I really don't think flunitrazepam is more dangerous than other benzodiazepines or other nitro-benzodiazepines like nitrazepam, in overdose. I do believe this is propaganda, and may stem from the claim that 'flunitrazepam is 10 times stronger than diazepam' and therefore taking 1 tablet of flunitrazepam is like taking 10 blue valium. Flunitrazepam is essentially 10 times more potent than diazepam, but then alprazolam could be said to be essentially 20 times more potent, it's all about single doses.

As for the puking thing, i don't think this is true either, although eating the sheer number of tablets would probably make anyone puke, so yea there could be some truth in it. I don't believe it's an anti overdose mechanism, rather a response to the sheer number of tablets, hell just eating a few can make you gag.

331 to 2171mg/kg, man that is high, and such a huge range. Even the lower number of that, 331mg PER kg, so half the people weighing 75kg would need at least 24 GRAMS of alprazolam for it to be lethal, that can't be right, that's 24,000 1mg tablets and that's the lowest number, and in rats.

soma

12-05-2008, 23:19

SWIM thinks you stand a MUCH better chance of taking too much and doing something incredibly dangerous or stupid than actually overdosing.

davestate

12-05-2008, 23:20

331 to 2171mg/kg, man that is high, and such a huge range. Even the lower number of that, 331mg PER kg, so half the people weighing 75kg would need at least 24 GRAMS of alprazolam for it to be lethal, that can't be right, that's 24,000 1mg tablets and that's the lowest number, and in rats.

Unfortunately, results in rats do not correlate to results in humans. Look up any LD50 results, you will see that it varies wildly between test species, and should never be used in the case of humans. Remember, even if the LD50 was the same in both the rat and human, theres still a 50% chance the dose'll kill you

radiometer

13-05-2008, 00:33

Is there a lethal dose of alprazolam?

There is a lethal dose of ANYTHING.

Ididnotinhale

13-05-2008, 04:38

Swim and many of nearly all of his aquaintances also report similar uncharacterstically violent behavior on higher doses of alprazolam. When people take very high doses of this drug I begin to worry about those around them rather than the person themselves, they usually wake w/ no memory of the event and utter confusion as to how the stories they are hearing about what they did can possibly be true. High doses of alprazolam seem to truly turn some ppl evil. Is odd because at lower doses these ppl seem like angels, like they're on cloud 9.

This is getting interesting, because at low doses people are so mellow and swim could never imagine any of his fellow swimmers getting violent when taking a "normal" recreation level. Swim knows that benzos are used anti-nausea for chemo, but many drugs do very different things when very high doses are taken.
Also when the body knows that it is being "poisoned"(for lack of a better word) vomiting is the natural reaction. If one takes to much of heroin, alcohol, dxm, mushrooms, salvia, and even pot puking is likely.
Pot is a great example of how xanax could cause puking. Pot is used to treat nauseousness for those going through chemo like xanax, but swim has seen people smoke so much that they have actually puked. Swim has smoked enough many times where he has gotten nauseous, but also when he has had stomach problems he has also smoked a small amount and it has helped with the nausea. So in short to much of just about any drug can cause puking. Swim can't think of a single drug where extremely high amounts don't cause puking so he figures xanax is no different.

Swim hypothesizes the hypnotic benzos(like rophynol) are much more dangerous than the anxiolytic benzos, hence why hypnotics are rarely used. Possibly when my professor said that one can die much easier from rophynol than other benzos he may have used that as an example for all hypnotics since it is the most commonly known hypnotic.

Examples of hypnotics: Ermin, Halcion, Dalmane, Loramet. Temazepam
Examples of anxiolytics: Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan, Valium

As one can see, hynotics are rarely used, except for a little bit of Halcion, but nothing compared to any of the listed anxiolytics, swim knows that hypnotics are more likely to cause amnesia, but he also believes that their use must have been replaced by anxiolytics for some other safety issue. Such as accidental overdose leading to death. Wikipedia states that
"From a research perspective, there are some data suggesting that temazepam may be more frequently involved in drug-related deaths than are some other benzodiazepines" since temazepam is a hypnotic this shows once again how hypnotics are more dangerous.

So far swim hypothesizes that hypnotics are much more dangerous than anxiolytics and that extremely high doses of either type of benzo may cause vomitting.

Swim found this quote that was in an article that only spoke of anxiolytics:
"Very high doses of benzodiazepines can cause respiratory depression, unconsciousness or coma. Death rarely occurs from overdose of benzodiazepines alone, but deaths can occur if large doses are combined with alcohol or other drugs. Deaths can also occur from inhalation of mucus or vomit when a person is unconscious."
http://www.druginfo.adf.org.au/article.asp?ContentID=benzodiazepines#preventing

As swim previously said and as stated above, death is unlikely from high doses of anxiolytics, like xanax. During swims life he has heard of girls during both high school and college who tried to commit suicide with xanax alone, but none of them succeeded. Swim also knows that there was one girl who chased her xanax with alcohol and she died.

Panthers007

13-05-2008, 05:15

Aside from being a statistic as in a corpse, one can also go into the irreversible coma. A famous case of this was a young woman named Karen Anne Quinlan. She, according to doctors and friends, took a couple of Valiums (diazepam) and drank gin. She wound up in a coma - flat-liner brain dead - for several years if memory serves me. It was all over the news as bad as O.J. Simpson. Her family wanted her taken off basic life-support. Someone else said no. They said yes. And back and forth it played out - like a soap opera from hell.

So one might not die from taking a large quantity of benzodiazepines. It could be worse: Your emaciated shrunken body on a bed under TV cams next to a machine that goes <beep!> <beep!> <beep!> for what is likely eternity. Yuck!

Laudaphun

13-05-2008, 06:31

Everyone is different, swim has taken up to 17 mg of Klonopin in one night and really didn't feel to much, but he has been 3mg a day for about a year.

Keep in mind that someone whose body has become accustomed to benzos can often handle exxagerated doses. Someone who hasn't taken clonazepam, alprazolam, or whatever benzo you're talking about is going to be in a world of trouble at doses that high. SWIM is also prescribed 3mg clonazepam and/or alprazolam daily (not to be taken at the same time). Overall SWIM takes 2-3mg daily of one or the other, or both. With rare exception does SWIM exceed either 3mg of one or the other, or 3mg combined. SWIM tends to lay off of the alprazolam during the academic setting as there tends to be more pronounced amnesia. However, when in more social situations SWIM resorts to the alprazolam (which her marmoset is considering phasing out).

On rare occasion, the marmoset will take multiple doses (nothing near 17mg), but doses at which would have caused a blackout in the marmoset years ago before daily use began. When the marmoset was young, didn't not take a benzo regularly, and her primary interest was recreation, doses at around 6mg were about the upper limit before blacking out (and that was combined with no other substances)... Addition of any other substance, namely ethanol usually made it highly likely that something bad would happen to her marmoset. Maybe some think that 6mg is a low dose to be blacking out at, well every marmoset is different as stated in the above post.

However, SWIM is confident that most people who do not have a tolerance for benzos would be considered in a state of overdose if found by a medical personel after having consumed 3-7mg alprazolam (with 3mg being conservative and depending on individual sensitivity). SWIM can recount several marmosets being treated for an overdose after consuming "estimation" between 6-8mg alprazolam. While not particularly toxic, (alprazolam is slightly more toxic in regards to benzos in general) a state of unresponsiveness is cause enough for alarm.

Granted, in these cases (we're talking 6-8mg) no treatment was necessary other than close medical supervision. Basically, the hospital just let the marmosets "sleep it off" if confident that the marmoset was not in any immediate danger of death.

At least one marmoset did have his stomach pumped (at a dose of 7mg? if SWIM remembers correctly). SWIM did not witness this marmoset's "episode" and is going on the marmoset's own story, recounted to SWIM by the marmoset. Don't remember if other drugs were involved (SWIM is inclined to think that alprazolam at 7mg was the only substance involved, if her memory serves her correctly and the marmoset who told her the story was 100% honest). This particular marmoset got into a lot of trouble over this by his parents, and SWIM remembers thinking that it seemed odd that so much trouble came out of consumption of 7mg alprazolam. But SWIM had never exceeded 5-6mg (to her own recollection), so she just figured that a mg or two could mean a big difference. The marmoset in mention was a young kid whose drug of choice was methamphetamine but not yet a full blown addict, as he had not progressed to regular use(not to say that everyone will end up as an addict because SWIM has no firsthand experience with methamphetamine nor been around many other marmosets who have). From what SWIM has seen, it seems to be an epidemic in very isolated regions.

Up until that particular incident, SWIM had never heard this marmoset talk about any benzo, nor expressed interest in any depressant type drugs. This marmoset was scared enough from the experience that when his and SWIM's paths parted ways, he was completely against all drugs. Maybe 16 or 17 years old at the time, SWIM remembers this particular marmoset as being a real nice kid and hopes very much so that this marmoset has stuck to his resolution to never touch drugs again. SWIM still worries that the marmoset's initial scare with an alprazolam overdose wore off and he resumed his use of methamphetamine and cocaine. LOL SWIM was still "wet behind the ears" at that age... not for long though.

The point SWIM is trying to make is that doses that experienced benzo users view as nothing special, might end up getting some other SWIM into a lot of trouble. Fortunately for safety's sake, benzos have a low toxicity. The drugs which benzos have largely replaced would likely do more than just get one of these random SWIM's out there into a heap shit-pile of trouble, but often times prove to be fatal. Barbiturates or methaqualone would be much more capable of proving fatal to a non-tolerant SWIM if taken at doses frequently taken by regular, tolerant users. Even tolerant users of these older drugs, could reach a tolerance at which an overdose could occur due to their low lethal/effective therapeutic dose ratios. Despite the greatly increased saftey of benzos in overdose, extreme caution still needs to be exercised as if you are in a state of blackout, greatly reduced inhibitions, and have an alprazolam(or other benzo) dose in your system large enough to cause such, you are putting yourself at risk if you do not have a very sober and responsible "sitter" looking out for you.

Appologies for the length, SWIM has just seen too many other SWIM's get into a lot of trouble from what the majority(NOT all) of the community on this forum view as smallish doses. Even elderly people are prone to have accidents, break bones, etc from therapeutic doses. SWIM watched her own grandfather nearly fall down the steps due to loss of coordination from a Dr. prescribed dose. Had SWIM not caught him...

Laudaphun added 1240 Minutes and 21 Seconds later...

After reading back through, and reading this post a couple of posts, SWIM was reminded of yet one other marmoset who had "overdosed" on xanax (alprazolam) in a similar fashion.

This marmoset was a mother with no history of drug abuse, several kids, and a BF that was a complete ass. This marmoset was abused as a child and and as an adult entered into a relationship with an abusive partner. She took care of and had custody of not only her own children, but her brother's as well as he and his GF were straight up crackhead's not able to take care of children. Obviously someone very, very stressed out.

Anyways, SWIM recounts her telling him the story of the time she was prescribed a bottle of 0.25mg alprazolam. Again, this is a story told to SWIM by the marmoset mentioned, so SWIM is repeating only what she remembers being told. The marmoset remembered taking one (maybe more?) and feeling very relaxed. SWIM can understand why this might have been a very attractive feeling, given the marmoset's difficult life growing up and now as an adult trying to be responsible when all of the others in her life were not. This marmoset told SWIM how she remembers driving and just feeling so relaxed, so she kept taking them. She didn't give any specifics or gestimations as to how many she took, only that she continued to take them as she really liked that relaxed feeling. This is very vague, but as SWIM recalls the marmoset told her that she just remembers driving along and feeling so nice and relaxed that she just kept taking them... SWIM "thinks" she wrecked (not 100% sure), but the next thing the marmoset recalls is being in the hospitol being treated for an overdose.

There is no way to really gauge the dosage she took, but the one thing that really stuck out to SWM about this particular instance is that the dosage units were so small (0.25mg) and the marmoset was not trying to get "messed up" but rather just trying to keep that "relaxed feeling" she initially reported.

Typically a dr. would prescribe a max of 90 tablets to anyone, especially on the first time use of a medication. Assuming that, she would have had at max, 22.5mg at her disposal... very doubtful that this marmoset took anything even close to that, and even that is just an educated guess as to what quantity she was actually prescribed. SWIM doesn't even think this marmoset knew what xanax (alprazolam) was before being prescribed it. Perhaps if SWIM runs into this particular marmoset again, she will ask about it again and get more details and edit this post at a later time.

radiometer

13-05-2008, 07:57

This is getting interesting, because at low doses people are so mellow and swim could never imagine any of his fellow swimmers getting violent when taking a "normal" recreation level.

According to the published data (http://www.rxlist.com/cgi/generic/alpraz_ad.htm), in studies of alprazolam, disinhibition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disinhibition) was reported at a rate of 2.7%, a not insignificant frequency.

Granted, almost all tales I've heard of violent behavior associated with the use of benzodiazepines have included the use of large doses, often in combination with alcohol.

Could you quantify what you mean by "a normal recreational level?"

Ididnotinhale

18-05-2008, 18:07

purplehaze

18-05-2008, 18:48

I would suggest only having one dose available, be it 5mg etc, at one time. Do not have these things in the house with you after dosing, it can be taken way to lightley and people think ah that wont happen to me, but after you pop them you are going to forget you took them and if you have more you will keep taking them. Panthers explained this well one time, it is very true, when playing with benzos only have what your going to take available to you.

thomasj

18-05-2008, 19:58

Well, Alprazolam has a long half life so, I would say dose according to half life. It also has different active routes i.e., oral, rectal, insufflation, and i.v. The highest rate of metabolization will take place via rectal suppository. Avoid drinking grape fruit juice, it works as an antagonist of a receptor that effects metabolic rates.(can't quite remember which one but, positive of it) I, personaly, would not exceed 8 mg but also have been on it for atleast 4 years. 3 mg seems sufficient for you but, of course im just guessing because I don't know how much you weigh and even that will cause rapid motor skill loss. I have a dui to prove it. Don't drive, don't drink. Just relax.

Ididnotinhale

22-05-2008, 00:13

Thomas, did you get the DUI for benzo's alone?

Also insufliation of benzo's really doesn't work better than oral. Just not enough mucus membranes. Luckily there are far more mucous membranes in the anus.

Many people suggest using benzo's to save money, but if you choose to do so decrease your amount by 30%

Swim is still wondering, has anyone found a source of death from benzos alone?

Also, the half life isn't that long, it's about 12 hours. Just because a half life may be 12 hours, does not mean that one will feel the effects for 12 hours. For instance, marijuana has a half life of 1.3 days, but one definetly doesn't feel high for over a day.

stoneinfocus

22-05-2008, 00:41

some of thse have a ceiling effect, so it´s impossilbe to kill yourself with them, that´s why they´re still around.

Try, as a normal leathal person, getting a script for anything, in a size ir quantities, which could kill you...impossible, not available to adults anymore, just for doctors onyl, maybe in america with barbs but not in europe anymore.(except slin, but they can´t let you die of diabetes) -okay a bit exaggerated, some opoid patches might sdo the trick, but you´d have to be close to death anyway,wf or being prescribed one of those or have a very intimate realtion to your doc.

thomasj

22-05-2008, 00:49

Thomas, did you get the DUI for benzo's alone?.
Yes, but not Alprazolam it was called temazepam.
And read this, it might answer your question. Results of Australia but, there diazepam is prescribed more often than alprazolam.
"There were 2063 single benzodiazepine overdose admissions: 131 alprazolam overdoses, 823 diazepam overdoses and 1109 other benzodiazepine overdoses. The median LOS for alprazolam overdoses was 19 h which was 1.27 (95% CI 1.04, 1.54) times longer compared with other benzodiazepines by multiple linear regression. "
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1884537

Solinari

22-05-2008, 15:26

Overdose will be a subjective term and i imagine the vast majority of 'overdoses' will be over the prescribed dose. I bet most overdoses were due to someone finding some one else that was heavily intoxicated, on the floor, unresponsive or unable to look after themselves. Then that person taking the intoxicated person to hospital rather than letting them sleep it off which is what i imagine would happen if they were never found in the first place.

stoneinfocus

22-05-2008, 15:50

Overdose is not a subjective term, overdose is a defined medical term, i.e. a dose of more than the prescribed one and many other criteria.

thomasj

22-05-2008, 17:02

Overdose is not a subjective term, overdose is a defined medical term, i.e. a dose of more than the prescribed one and many other criteria.

Yes but that defines more around the term of drug abuse than overdose. I think overdose would be considered the state in which your liver can not process the excess amount resulting in toxicity. The term overdose is very tangible though as with many other things in the medical field, it is up to the md treating it to make the proper diagnosis.

Solinari

22-05-2008, 17:39

What i was trying to say is if someone took enough diazepam (or whatever) to cause them to black out or pass out and wake up the next day, they wouldn't say they overdosed and nearly died. Where as someone who took a lot of heroin and passed out would be in a dangerous situation and probably lucky to wake up if no one intervened, then that person would say they overdosed.

In a lot of peoples mind, they equate overdose to death or near death, but with a lot of things that doesn't always happen, benzodiazepines is one of them. Taking more than the prescribed or maximum recommenced dose, doesn't necessarily mean an overdose as such, tolerance has a large part to play in it as well.

moda00

22-05-2008, 19:53

These are all good points. I think Solinari's point about different drugs is a good one (ie. heroin is more likely to be called an "overdose" than pharmaceutical benzodiazepines, for both social/cultural reasons and also because it is probably true imo that heroin is more dangerous and more likely to result in death if one loses consciousness from it- but this also has to do with routes of administration) Also, the fact that a situation like that happens probably much more frequently than is recorded, and whether or not the incident is remembered or termed an "overdose" likely depends less on physical measurements of health, blood concentration, dose, etc. and more on whether other people were around to respond, call emergency services etc. With certain drugs, benzos being one of the big ones, GHB too, there are doses that will "knock you out" without usually causing any significant health problems- but if this occurs with others around, it is more likely that they will involve emergency medical services, not wanting to be responsible for an overdose or death and doing nothing. The perceptions of those observing the event affect how it will be labeled.

Once when swim was young and reckless, she got drunk and was puking, and went home to her parents' house. While she could have slept it off, her mom freaked out and took her to the hospital- thus her version is "alcohol poisoning/could have died" whereas swim's perception is "should not have drank so much and gone home, but certainly was not near death."

However, the OP refers to a LETHAL dose of alprazolam, which would be an overdose resulting in DEATH (as opposed to an overdose resulting in temporary or lasting adverse health effects), for clarification. So while overdose certainly can be ambiguous, we can talk about overdoses in terms of factors which can increase or decrease the chance of a fatality as a result.. And since benzos can result in memory problems ("blackouts") or over-sedation ("pass-outs") fairly frequently and usually without any adverse health effects, this issue could certainly use more clarification in general..

radiometer

22-05-2008, 21:19

Swim is still wondering, has anyone found a source of death from benzos alone?

Sure, this is just one paper I found via 10 seconds of googling...

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15725773

Wolf BC, Lavezzi WA, Sullivan LM, Middleberg RA, Flannagan LM.
Office of the Medical Examiner, Palm Beach County, West Palm Beach, Florida, USA. bwolf@leegov.com

Alprazolam-related deaths in Palm Beach County.

Alprazolam is a commonly prescribed benzodiazepine. The abuse of benzodiazepines is most frequently seen in conjunction with the abuse of other drugs. Only rare fatalities have been attributed to alprazolam alone. We undertook a retrospective review of cases investigated by the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner's Office in which postmortem toxicologic studies indicated the presence of alprazolam, to further study the pattern of alprazolam abuse. Our review consisted of 178 cases, including 87 in which death was attributed to combined drug toxicity, 2 to alprazolam toxicity alone, 44 to trauma, 12 to natural causes, and 33 to another drug or drugs. Cocaine and methadone were the most common cointoxicants in the cases of combined drug toxicity, while heroin was less frequently detected. There was considerable overlap in the postmortem blood alprazolam concentrations among the groups. The overlapping ranges of concentrations of alprazolam detected indicate that it may be difficult to define a lethal alprazolam range, and that it may not be possible to determine the actual role of alprazolam as a causal factor in cases of combined drug toxicity. This study confirms that alprazolam alone is rarely a cause of death, and that alprazolam abuse usually occurs within a polydrug use pattern. The high incidence of cocaine as a cointoxicant has not been previously reported.

Emphasis added.

I find this reported incidence of death associated with a combination of alprazolam and cocaine rather interesting...

stoneinfocus

22-05-2008, 21:39

Jep, so for this reason you should probably have had the last few senteces emphasised? ;-)

to elaborate on the overdose issue a bit; it´s, like "bause" all related to medical practice and these practice always relates to the term "overdose" to conditions, where the effect of the drug can be controlled and monitored for achieving the desired drug-effect.

Example given: A preson in his privacy is prescribed a drug at a dose, which is said to provide the desired drug-effects, with the lest unwanted drug-effects, he´s not overdosing, he is, when he takes his pills and passes out on the street, which is definately not wanted in this setting.

A person recieving a dental surgery is given midazolam at a dose, that he passes out and maybe gets an amnesia from it. Both is desired and it´s not an overdose, for said reason.

The term "abuse" is rather subjectively used and imho can´t be logically related to any setting of use (with one exception, mentioned later-on), even moreso, abused by inferior judging of medical professionals, caused by inferior determination of the word "abuse" and should therefor be abandoned completely, as it´s only holding some value, when abuse gets equal to an overdose-scenario, which then is sufficient to describe real world problems and can be nailed as a valuable approach to a solution of the very issue of "abuse".

radiometer

22-05-2008, 22:42

Jep, so for this reason you should probably have had the last few senteces emphasised? ;-)

No, because although interesting, it is not relevant to the topic of this thread.

Panthers007

22-05-2008, 23:04

thomasj

22-05-2008, 23:26

I can see that cocaine and alprazolam/diazepam/etc. could put quite a strain on the heart - among other things. Rather like a "speedball" does. And cocaine, being cocaine, would tend to invite use of benzodiazepines.
That is the most truthful statement ive heard so far. Alot of people who can't take coming down use a benzo. Or non benzos like zolipidem. Definitely alot more toxic than a benzo by itself.

davestate

22-05-2008, 23:32

I can see that cocaine and alprazolam/diazepam/etc. could put quite a strain on the heart - among other things. Rather like a "speedball" does. And cocaine, being cocaine, would tend to invite use of benzodiazepines.

IIRC was there not a recent thread on here debating the dangers(or lack of) of combining an upper with a downer?

Solinari

23-05-2008, 12:33

Yea, that is what i was saying, the intervention by someone else can make what would have been a black/pass out turn in to an "overdose" simply by finding that person in a state.

Edit: That's the second time i have missed multiple pages, i was replying to Moda00's last post.

schiz0phren1c

04-06-2008, 13:30

Hello.

Four days ago I woke up at the Emergency Department with nasal tube and infusions,with amnesia about events prior to the hospitalization.Now I remember that I took 8 mg of alprazolam in order to get stoned.That quantity equals 8 tablets out of 30 tabs package.When I returned home yesterday-get this-I found noneexcept one of thepills.Since nobody had access to them,I devised a theory,with two possible explanations:

1)After I took the first 8 pills I lost my senses and overindulged myself in an alprazolam consuming festivity.

2)I became suicidal (?) so I reached for the rest of the package.

So here is my advice.The key word here is desinhibition,so if you intend to get stoned on benzoes,keep the rest of the pills out of your reach.You may loosethe capability to judge or perhaps you may get amnesia.I would recommend that you keep off the alcohol,too.

Bitter lesson.........

Cheers,

Igor

Edited by: Malinovski

Hi Mal,Swim of mine would just like to add a similar story,
Swim is a big lad(6'2,200+pounds) in his 30's and THOUGHT he was experienced,one night in Bangkok(and the tough guys crumble!:laugh:) Swim was out drinking super potent cocktails,a friend of swims gave him some Alprazolam to hold for him at the start of the night as we had visited the pharmacy on the way out and Swims friend has small pockets and was afraid to lose them,after a couple of super potent cocktails Swim asked his mate could he take a Xan,after he did...the WHOLE night went downhill :(
Swim has a serious problem in that he can be clinically OD'd and still standing,talking(shouting) running around and making a total cock of himself at a stage where he should be well unconscious,
it was discovered later that on top of the many super potent cocktails Swim went back into the bathroom and necked 8 more of the remaining 1mg Alprazolam at some stage of the night,Swim is an experienced Bouncer/Martial artist who was usually referred to in Thailand as Jai Dee(a really nice guy) but that night,Swims friends were to spend the whole night stopping this out of control juggernaut arsehole from causing trouble in a city where troublemakers frequently end up seriously hurt or worse,
culminating in Swim destroying his own Apartment in Bangkok and deciding to attempt go and wander the streets with a legally held .45 cal pistol,swim was lucky his beautiful girlfriend and many friends as well as the extremely understanding security on his condo all cooperated to try keep swim under control,swim didn't end up in hospital,but felt like death for a week,both physically and mentally and emotionally,and spent a long time apologising to the many people affected by his arsehole rampage,
swim treats ALL benzo's with extreme respect now,and NEVER mixes with alcohol,
OP,17mg of Alparazolam is amazing,Swim has the same type of tolerance to pills as you seem to,but be careful,if these ones are sub par,and you attempt to repeat the same dose of good quality,you could wind up brown bread,take heed from an older guy with the same tolerances you have,and take care of yourself.
thanks all,sorry for wall of text.

schiz0phren1c added 13 Minutes and 23 Seconds later...

Swim and many of nearly all of his aquaintances also report similar uncharacterstically violent behavior on higher doses of alprazolam. When people take very high doses of this drug I begin to worry about those around them rather than the person themselves, they usually wake w/ no memory of the event and utter confusion as to how the stories they are hearing about what they did can possibly be true. High doses of alprazolam seem to truly turn some ppl evil. Is odd because at lower doses these ppl seem like angels, like they're on cloud 9.

I would just like to add to my above post that this is ABSOLUTELY true in SWIMS case,asI mentioned in my other post, SWIM is a Martial Artist and Pistol and Shotgun competition enthusiast with many weapons stored or displayed in his Bangkok apartment(I miss it a lot :( ),Swim is an amazingly together,trustworthy guy,but on that particular might of madness,almost every sword,knife,axe,and other Martial art weapon in Swims apartment had to be hidden as he seemed to think his loving friends and beautiful GF were demons of some type and wanted to/attemped to kill many of them,it was only by the grace of Buddha and his wonderful friends that swim didnt end up shot dead by Thai police,Swim would not wish this demonic transformation on anybody. :(

purplehaze

05-06-2008, 16:58

it was only by the grace of Buddha and his wonderful friends that swim didnt end up shot dead by Thai police

It could have just as well been another appearance for the noodly appendage of the flying speghetti monster.

Sorry im leaving now.

schiz0phren1c

05-06-2008, 18:30

It could have just as well been another appearance for the noodly appendage of the flying speghetti monster.

Sorry im leaving now.

http://img45.imageshack.us/img45/5072/touchedbyhisnoodlyappenms5.jpg

:D

Laudaphun

11-06-2008, 05:14

A normal recreational level really depends on the tolerance of the user. For newbies to benzo's swim would say a "normal" level would be anything under 3mg or so, but as tolerance builds 15 mg could easily be a "normal level". Sorry that swim did not make that clear earlier.

As panther stated, Quilan got put into permanent Coma, but once again it wasn't benzo's alone, she alcohol along with her downers. Additionally according to wikipedia
She "took a tranquilizer, believed to be phenobarbital, but perhaps valium or methaqualone " So possibly it wasn't even a benzo, but rather a barbiturate, which is far easier to OD on even without any "help" from alcohol or other downers.

Newbies??? a 3mg alprazolam dose normal for newbies? ... SWIM has taken xanax for well over a decade, and in her younger years would take very large doses... Don't seemed to remeber a bottle of 90 lasting more than a weekend.

Now, SWIM's normal, once daily dose is 2mg... 3-4mg occasionally. One rare occasions. Do not confuse "newbie" with using medication responsibly. SWIM could easily let herself take 15mg/day if she wanted... but she knows that would be like walking into a lion's den and then running as fast as she could.

So is SWIM a newbie because she seldom take over 2mg alprazolam per day, or perhaps 2mg clonazepam others, depending on SWIM's mood? Would SWIM like to take more? YES, but SWIM chooses not to. Becareful when you word newbies in that context.