Duration of Symptoms Post-Alprazolam Overdose
I apologize for any lack of clarity in my message; I’ve been quite disoriented lately. I also hope I’m posting in the right forum for this discussion. A bit about me: I’m a 22-year-old woman (transgender male, no medical transition) at 5’2” and weighing 181 pounds (82 kg). I’ve been prescribed venlafaxine 75 mg for my depression, oxcarbazepine 150 mg twice a day for mood stabilization, alongside a generic folate supplement, and alprazolam for managing anxiety and panic attacks. Additionally, I'm on Ozempic (semaglutide) for weight management and am currently in week 3 of a 0.25 mg dosage. I used to smoke as a teenager but recently started having cigarettes sporadically after quitting for a while. My overall physical health is mostly unremarkable, although I experience pain while walking. Historically, my vital signs have been stable. I struggle with alcohol dependency when financially able, but I recently broke a sobriety period that lasted for a while. Recently, I consumed an entire bottle of 1 mg Xanax (about 60 mg) and had approximately 11 beers (Cayman Jack, 5.8% alcohol), ultimately passing out before finishing the twelfth. Somehow I survived this experience, but I’m reaching out because I’ve been feeling very unstable, stumbling, and occasionally groaning during activities. There are moments when I lose consciousness entirely—not fainting, but instead feeling a compelling need to lie down and sleep for varying durations, from an hour to as much as six. After going to bed at night, I find myself waking up in the afternoon. I often slur my speech, experience uncontrollable tears, hyperventilate, and swing between a state of emotional emptiness and being overwhelmed by feelings. This is significantly worse than my emotional state prior to my overdose attempt. My mother mentioned that I seem slightly improved today (though she is unaware of my recent actions), and I agree that I’m not as severely affected, but the experience remains intense. I assume the substances are gradually clearing from my system, and I realize it’s unrealistic to expect a rapid return to normalcy following such a critical event. However, I’m curious to know how much longer I might feel this way and when I might regain a sense of normality. To provide some context, I am under the care of a psychiatrist, and I’ve engaged with mental health services since childhood, including multiple hospitalizations for psychiatric reasons, as well as consultations with various therapists and professionals over the years. I am actively seeking help to navigate through this, but I’d like to understand when I might stop experiencing these physical effects. Thank you for taking the time to read my message. I apologize if this topic feels inappropriate for this platform.
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 7:50:32 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm really sorry to hear about your experience, and it's completely understandable to feel disoriented and uncertain after such a challenging incident. It’s important that you prioritize your health and well-being during this recovery phase.
Main Points: Your symptoms are likely due to the combination of Alprazolam overdose and alcohol consumption, which can lead to prolonged effects as these substances clear from your system. Given that you're feeling unstable, it's essential to focus on monitoring your symptoms and ensuring your safety.
Explanation: When someone takes a significant amount of Alprazolam (like 60 mg) combined with alcohol, it can lead to central nervous system depression, which accounts for the stumbling, slurred speech, excessive sleepiness, and emotional swings you're experiencing. The half-life of Alprazolam is about 6 to 12 hours, but its effects can linger, especially in combination with alcohol, which can also affect your emotional state. Recovery time varies for individuals, but it may take days to weeks to feel fully stable again as your body detoxifies and adjust back to normal.
Your concern about returning to a sense of normality is valid; however, improvement can happen gradually, and it may be difficult to predict a precise timeline.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Stay Safe: Ensure you're in a safe environment – avoid any activities that could put you at risk, like driving or being alone at home for extended periods.
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Hydration & Nutrition: Drink plenty of water and eat nutritious food to support your body during recovery.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of any new or worsening symptoms, like confusion, persistent sleepiness, or changes in mood.
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Reach Out For Support: If you're not feeling stable, don’t hesitate to contact your psychiatrist or a mental health professional who can provide immediate support. Given your history, this is essential for ensuring you have the proper care during this time.
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Limit Stimulants: Avoid caffeine and other stimulants as they can exacerbate anxiety and instability.
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Plan for Follow-Up Care: When you feel ready, connect with your healthcare team to talk about any adjustments to your medication or strategies to better manage your mental health.
Please remember that healing takes time, and there is support available for you. Make sure to communicate openly with your trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals about how you're feeling. You're not alone in this, and there are people who care and want to help you through it.
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