Fake Xanax Bars

Xanax, also known by its generic name, alprazolam, is a common choice for treating anxiety and panic disorders. But now, there’s a growing problem with fake Xanax, referred to as counterfeit Xanax. These imitation pills are hazardous because they might have dangerous ingredients like fentanyl. Such substances can result in a higher number of overdoses, fatalities, and dependencies on various drugs.

Doctors and drug stores are trying to be careful about giving out Xanax. But this hasn’t stopped people from misusing Xanax. Some folks even go to illegal sellers to get this medicine.

What Are Xanax Bars?

Xanax bars are a form of the prescription drug alprazolam, belonging to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax bars typically refer to a 2 MG dose of alprazolam, which is a higher dose than other types of Xanax pills and is not an illegal drug when prescribed. The term “bars” originates from their bar-like shape, which manufacturers score into sections to break them into smaller pieces.

Because of their potent effects, Xanax bars are highly regulated and are available only with a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. However, there are illegally produced Xanax bars that mimic the real thing and are sold on the street or in illegal online pharmacies.

What’s in Fake Xanax?

Drug dealers produce fake Xanax bars illegally, so it’s hard to know what they put in them. They often use drugs that imitate authentic Xanax. Some things used in fake Xanax make it look and feel like the real thing, but they don’t get you high. These could be baking soda, condensed milk, chalk, or other standard powders.

The significant danger is from drugs added to fake Xanax to mimic its effects. The most common is fentanyl, a powerful, highly addictive drug that is much more potent than morphine or heroin. A test by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) found that many fake Xanax pills had deadly amounts of fentanyl. They’re also seeing a new drug in fake Xanax called U-47700, a synthetic opioid that poses a severe risk of overdose.

Fake Xanax can be dangerous because of what’s in it, leading to overdose and addiction. One fake pill could have two dangerous drugs in it, and the person taking it might not know how risky it is.

Side Effects of Counterfeit Xanax Pills

The side effects of fake Xanax bars can be different because of what’s in them. Drug dealers who make counterfeit drugs are not trying to help with anxiety disorder or any health issues. They want to make money and get people addicted.

Fake Xanax might have a little bit of real Xanax in it, but the side effects are usually stronger or different than authentic Xanax. They’re more like the side effects of fentanyl and other potent drugs.

The side effects of fake Xanax bars can include:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Skin rashes
• Itching
• Hives
• Confusion
• Sweating
• Twitching
• Unsteady heart rate and blood pressure
• Passing out
• Slowed breathing
• Seizures
• Falling into a coma
• Overdosing
• Death
• When you use fake Xanax with other drugs or drink alcohol at the same time, it’s called polysubstance use. This can make side effects or overdose chances hard to guess and much worse.
• You should never stop taking Xanax suddenly without medical supervision. The risks from fake pills are too high just to stay away from withdrawal. Doctors usually say you should detox with medical help and join treatment programs for addiction to drugs like Xanax and the withdrawal that comes with it.

How to Tell if Xanax Bar is Fake

Drug dealers often make fake Xanax that’s hard to tell from the authentic drug. They know that people who want to avoid Xanax withdrawal symptoms may not check the pills they buy on the street carefully. But if you have trouble with Xanax and want to stay safe, it’s good to learn how to spot fake medicine.

Some common signs that might help you spot fake Xanax include:

• The medicine doesn’t come straight from a pharmacy
• The medicine bottle or blister pack is already open or looks odd
• You find pills in amounts that don’t match up
• The price is cheaper than what you would pay for a prescription
• The pill doesn’t have any marks, or they look off, or they have spelling mistakes
• The logo on the pill isn’t stamped in but is smooth or sticks out
• The pill’s outer layer is powdery, feels like wax, or has a color that doesn’t match the rest of the pill
• The pill weighs more than 0.5 grams, which is the usual weight for a real Xanax bar
• When you break the pill, it snaps into uneven pieces instead of splitting neatly along the lines scored into it
• The pill doesn’t dissolve in water

It is best if you can spot and stay away from fake Xanax before taking it. But having Narcan close by is a good idea in case you take a pill that has fentanyl in it by mistake. Narcan can save a life if there’s an overdose.

Xanax Addiction Treatment in Southern California

If you or someone you love is struggling with a Xanax addiction, you’re not alone; help is available. Northridge Addiction Treatment Center provides evidence-based treatment with a licensed, experienced, and compassionate, licensed team.

At NATC’s residential treatment center, medical detox is on-site in our private facility with doctors and nurses to watch over you, ensuring your safety during withdrawal. Our kind team of nurses, doctors, therapists, and counselors will customize a treatment plan to your specific needs and goals. This plan is designed to create a strong foundation of empowerment and strength for sustainable recovery. It will teach you how to cope with daily triggers to stay on track with your long-term recovery and live without addiction.

Northridge Addiction Treatment Center aims to give you the understanding and assurance to lead a life focused on healing and personal development. Our treatment specialists are here to support you in starting your path to recovery. Contact us today to get help.