A lexicon of Xanax street names
Xanax is the brand name for alprazolam, a prescription medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. However, when obtained and used outside of a medical context, it is referred to by a wide array of street names and slang. These terms are used to disguise illicit activity, with many nicknames referencing the drug's appearance, effects, or manufacturer. Familiarizing oneself with these terms can be an important step in identifying potential substance misuse.
Street names based on shape and color
Many street names for Xanax are inspired by the drug's physical appearance, particularly the most commonly counterfeited forms. The 2mg alprazolam tablet, often white and rectangular with scores for breaking it into smaller doses, is the source of many monikers.
- Bars, Xanbars, or Z-bars: These names refer to the elongated, rectangular shape of the 2mg tablet. The 'Z' often refers to an imprint found on some versions of the pill.
- Sticks or Planks: Like 'Bars', these terms describe the rectangular shape of the high-dose tablets.
- School Bus: This slang term is used for the yellow-colored Xanax bars, likening them to a yellow school bus.
- Footballs or Blue Footballs: These nicknames refer to the smaller, oval-shaped Xanax tablets, with the added color descriptor for the blue version.
- White Boys: A term describing the white-colored Xanax bars.
Slang based on effects and manufacturer
Other street names are less about appearance and more about the psychoactive effects or the drug's origins.
- Xannies or Zannies: A simple, shortened version of the name Xanax.
- Handlebars: This suggests the calming or sedative effects of the drug, which can make users feel “loose” or relaxed.
- Benzos or Tranks: These are broader terms that refer to the entire class of drugs that Xanax belongs to, benzodiazepines and tranquilizers, respectively.
- Upjohns: This references the Upjohn Company, which originally developed the drug.
- Chill Pills: A term describing the anxiety-reducing, calming effects of the drug.
The dangers of illicit Xanax
Misusing Xanax, particularly obtaining it from illicit sources, presents a serious health risk. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), alprazolam's rapid onset and high potency increase its potential for abuse and dependence.
Counterfeit pills
One of the most significant dangers is the prevalence of counterfeit Xanax. Illicitly manufactured pills often contain no alprazolam at all or contain other, more dangerous substances, such as lethal doses of fentanyl. Counterfeit medicines can vary dramatically in potency and ingredients, making their effects unpredictable and potentially fatal. Even subtle differences in appearance, like color variation or rough edges, can indicate a fake. It is extremely risky to consume any unprescribed pill, as even one fake tablet containing fentanyl can be deadly.
Polysubstance misuse
Mixing Xanax with other depressants, particularly alcohol and opioids, is extremely hazardous. Both substances slow down the central nervous system, and combining them dangerously increases the risk of respiratory depression, which can be fatal. Statistics show that a significant portion of benzodiazepine-related overdoses also involve opioids, highlighting the deadly potential of this combination.
Addiction and withdrawal
Physical and psychological dependence can develop even with short-term use of Xanax. A person may develop tolerance, needing higher and higher doses to achieve the desired effect. Abrupt cessation can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including seizures. For this reason, medical supervision is essential when tapering off the medication.
Xanax (alprazolam) vs. other benzodiazepines
To highlight why alprazolam is a commonly abused benzodiazepine, it's helpful to compare its pharmacological properties with others in the same class. Xanax (alprazolam) has a high-potency and rapid-onset effect, which appeals to recreational users seeking a quick high, and increases its abuse potential. Other benzos have different characteristics that influence their potential for misuse.
| Feature | Xanax (Alprazolam) | Klonopin (Clonazepam) | Valium (Diazepam) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Onset of Action | Rapid (within 30 minutes) | Intermediate to rapid | Rapid |
| Half-Life | Short (average 11.2 hours) | Long (18-50 hours) | Long (up to 100 hours) |
| Potency | High | High | Lower |
| Primary Use | Short-term anxiety and panic disorder | Panic disorders, seizure control | Anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, muscle spasms |
| Abuse Potential | High, due to quick onset and potency | Moderate | Moderate |
Conclusion: The importance of safe medication use
The myriad of street names associated with Xanax underscores its prevalence in the illicit drug market and the dangers of recreational use. The use of slang terms like "bars," "footballs," and "xannies" helps users conceal their activities, but it does not diminish the profound risks involved. Illicit Xanax can be counterfeit, contaminated, or dangerously potent, and misuse of any benzodiazepine can lead to dependence, addiction, and overdose, especially when combined with other substances.
For anyone prescribed alprazolam, it is crucial to follow a doctor's instructions carefully to minimize risks. Individuals struggling with substance misuse should seek professional help. The presence of numerous street names serves as a clear indicator that a medication is being used improperly and outside the bounds of responsible medical care. For more information on benzodiazepines and their effects, resources like the NCBI Bookshelf provide valuable insights from medical professionals.
