Many people are prescribed Xanax (alprazolam) to help manage anxiety or panic disorders. But because Xanax is a controlled benzodiazepine, questions often come up about how long it remains in the body or shows up on drug tests.
The time Xanax stays in the body can vary. Factors include age, liver function, metabolism, how often the medicine is used, and how much is taken. The type of test also affects detection windows. The answer depends on several factors, including the type of drug test and individual body chemistry.
At Wisconsin Recovery Institute, our team supports individuals and families with questions about addiction to prescription medications. Our approach is rooted in personalized, evidence-based care that considers each person’s unique needs.
How Long Does Xanax Stay in the Body?
In general, Xanax is usually detectable in urine for about 1 to 4 days after the last dose. In blood, Xanax can be found for up to 24 hours. Saliva tests may detect Xanax for up to two-and-a half days, while hair tests can show traces for up to 90 days.
Xanax, also called alprazolam, belongs to a group of medicines known as benzodiazepines. These medications work by calming the brain and nerves. The half life of Xanax (how long it takes for half of the amount taken to break down) can range from 6 hours to as long as 27 hours. Many factors, such as age, liver function, and metabolism, affect how quickly Xanax is broken down.
For most people, it takes about 4 to 5 half-lives for a drug to be almost completely cleared from the system. This means that Xanax will likely be mostly eliminated from the body about 44 to 135 hours after the last dose.
Factors That Affect How Long Xanax Stays in the Body
How long Xanax stays in your body depends on a range of individual factors. Age is one factor; people older than 65 often metabolize Xanax more slowly. This can increase detection time. Body weight and composition also matter, as people with higher body fat can store the drug for longer periods.
A faster metabolism can lead to quicker elimination, while a slower metabolism can extend how long Xanax stays on your system. Liver function is important, too. Impaired liver function slows the breakdown of Xanax, making it remain in the body longer. Drinking water helps keep the body hydrated and supports kidney function. However, it does not significantly increase the speed at which Xanax leaves the body.
Dosage and frequency of use are two additional important factors. Higher doses and regular use of Xanax can extend detection windows compared to lower, infrequent doses.
Rates of Xanax Detection by Test
Xanax shows up on most standard drug tests that include screening for benzodiazepines. A drug test checks for the presence of Xanax or its metabolites in a person’s system (depending on the type of test used).
Employment screening often includes a panel that tests for benzodiazepines, which means Xanax can be detected if a person has taken it recently. Legal or court-ordered testing may also look for Xanax, especially if the person is on parole or facing other legal requirements. In addition, medical testing might include a benzodiazepine screening before certain procedures or treatments to ensure patient safety.
Urine tests are used frequently to detect Xanax. For someone who uses Xanax occasionally, the drug is usually detectable in urine for 1 to 4 days. For those who use Xanax regularly or in higher amounts, it can be found in urine for up to 7 days or more. Chronic or heavy use can result in an even longer detection time.
Blood tests can find Xanax in the bloodstream for up to 24 hours after use. In some cases, especially with higher or repeated doses, Xanax might be detectable for up to 48 hours. Blood testing is not used as often as others due to the shorter detection window.
Saliva tests can detect Xanax for up to two-and-a-half days after use. In cases of heavy or frequent use, Xanax might be found in saliva for up to 4 days. Saliva testing may be used for workplace or roadside screenings.
Hair follicle tests can detect the presence of Xanax for up to 90 days after use. It generally takes about 7 to 10 days after taking Xanax for the drug to appear in hair samples.
Hair follicle tests can detect the presence of Xanax for up to 90 days after use. It generally takes about 7 to 10 days after taking Xanax for the drug to appear in hair samples.
Even though the noticeable effects of Xanax typically fade after several hours, the medication can remain in the body for much longer. Drug tests can detect Xanax or its metabolites for days or even weeks after the effects have worn off. This discrepancy takes place because the body continues to break down and remove Xanax long after its effects have ceased.
The length of Xanax’s presence in the system does not match the duration of its effects. Xanax XR, the extended-release version, may be detectable for a slightly longer period because it is absorbed and eliminated more slowly. The difference in detection time between extended-release and regular Xanax is generally minor. But even if a person no longer feels the calming or sedative effects, detection remains possible.
Risks of Xanax Misuse
Misusing Xanax causes several health risks. Physical dependence can develop, which means a person’s body starts to rely on the drug to function normally. Withdrawal symptoms may take place if a person stops taking Xanax suddenly.
Signs of dependence may include:
- Requiring higher doses to feel the same effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms between doses
- Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors
- Taking more Xanax than prescribed
Health risks linked to misuse include memory problems, difficulty with coordination, and slowed or troubled breathing. Overdose is another risk, especially when Xanax is used with alcohol or other drugs that slow down the central nervous system. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), benzodiazepine overdoses (including Xanax) have increased in recent years and can be fatal.
Treatment Options for Xanax Dependence
A comprehensive approach is often essential for those struggling with Xanax dependence. If you or someone you know has questions about Xanax dependence, Wisconsin Recovery Institute provides evidence-based treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions.
Medical detox is the process of safely removing Xanax from the body with consistent monitoring by healthcare professionals. Xanax withdrawal has the potential to cause seizures and other medical problems, so doctors often use a tapering method. This means the dose is slowly decreased over time, making withdrawal safer overall and lowering the risk of complications.
Therapy and counseling help people understand and change personal patterns that contribute to Xanax dependence. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a common therapy that teaches new ways to cope with stress, anxiety, and triggers for substance use. Group therapy allows people to share experiences and learn from others. Family therapy can help repair relationships and teach families how to support the recovery of the person in their life healing from Xanax dependence.
A dual diagnosis approach centers on treating both addiction and existing mental health conditions at the same time. This is important because mental health challenges are often present in people who have developed Xanax dependence. Those who are prescribed Xanax for anxiety conditions may be particularly vulnerable to developing an addiction. Treatment plans are made to address both conditions together, helping to support lasting recovery.
Finding Hope and Support for Xanax Addiction
Recovery from Xanax dependence is possible with support and a structured plan. At Wisconsin Recovery Institute, personalized care plans are created based on each person’s unique situation. These plans may include medical detox, therapy, counseling, and ongoing support.
Research shows that with the right treatment methods, long-term recovery is achievable. Each person’s recovery process can look different, and progress may happen at different speeds. Support from professionals, family, and peers often plays a role in positive outcomes.
If you or someone you know has questions about healing from Xanax dependence, Wisconsin Recovery Institute provides evidence-based treatment for substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. Call us today to connect with a treatment specialist.
