Alprazolam

Generic Name: Alprazolam Tablets (al-PRAY-zoe-lam)
Brand Name: Xanax

Prescribed For

Alprazolam is used for the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Anxiety disorders are characterized by unrealistic worry and apprehension, causing symptoms of restlessness, aches, trembling, shortness of breath, smothering sensation, palpitations, sweating, cold clammy hands, lightheadedness, flushing, exaggerated startle responses, problems concentrating, and insomnia. Panic attacks occur either unexpectedly or in certain situations (for example, driving), and can require higher dosages of alprazolam.

How To Take

Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. Alprazolam may be taken with or without food. If stomach upset occurs, take with food to reduce stomach irritation. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while you are being treated with Alprazolam.

Side Effects

The most frequent side effects of alprazolam taken at lower doses are drowsiness or lightheadedness, which probably reflect the normal actions of the drug. Side effects of higher dosages (those used for panic attacks) include fatigue, memory problems, speech problems, constipation, and changes in appetite with resultant changes in weight.

Alprazolam can lead to addiction (dependency), especially at high dosages over prolonged periods of time. Abrupt discontinuation of the alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, sweating, anxiety, and fatigue. Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently, patients on alprazolam for extended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under a doctor's supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication.

Dosage

Alprazolam may be taken with or without food. The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 times daily using immediate release tablets. The dose may be increased every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily. The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily. The effective dose for preventing panic attacks may be as high as 6 mg daily.

What happens if I overdose

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of alprazolam can be fatal.

Symptoms of an alprazolam overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, fainting, or coma.

Drug Interactions

Produce additive CNS depressant effects.

May increase effects of alprazolam, producing excessive sedation and impaired psychomotor function.

Plasma concentrations of these agents may be increased by alprazolam.

Serum digoxin concentrations may increase.

May slow dissolution or disintegration, resulting in slowed or decreased Niravam absorption.

May decrease alprazolam plasma levels.

May increase alprazolam plasma concentrations.

Concurrent use with alprazolam is contraindicated.

May increase serum levels of alprazolam and enhance alprazolam's effects.

May antagonize sedative effects of alprazolam.

None well documented.

Storage

Alprazolam should be stored at room temperature, 15-30?°C (59-86?°F).