What is Alprazolam
Alprazolam, available as Xanax or Xanax XR, is a prescription benzodiazepine used to treat
- Anxiety disorders,
- Panic disorders
- depression.
It comes in immediate-release and extended-release forms, as well as a solution for oral administration, working by enhancing certain brain neurotransmitters’ activity.
Alprazolam Uses
- Alprazolam treats anxiety and panic disorders, sometimes used for short-term depression-related anxiety.
- It enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain activity.
Alprazolam Side effects
Most common side effects of Alprazolam are:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Sleeping problems
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Increased sweating
- Dry mouth
- Weight Loss
Some of the serious side effects of Alprazolam are:
Mental health issues. Symptoms include:
- Depressed mood
- Hallucinations
Heart problems. Symptoms include:
- Chest pain
- Abnormal heartbeat
Movement problems. Symptoms include:
- Uncontrolled muscle movements
- Seizures
Contact your doctor immediately for serious symptoms. If you experience any reactions to Alprazolam, consider discontinuing use. The benefits usually outweigh side effects, and serious reactions should prompt immediate medical attention.
Precautions for Taking Alprazolam
Before taking Alprazolam, consult your doctor regarding allergies to it or other medications. Inactive ingredients may pose serious risks. Also, discuss any medical history with your doctor before use.
- Lung or breathing problems
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Glaucoma
How to take Alprazolam?
The alprazolam tablet, orally disintegrating tablet, and concentrated solution are typically taken two to four times daily. The extended-release tablet is taken once daily, usually in the morning. Use the provided dropper to measure the prescribed dose of concentrated liquid, then mix it with liquid or semi-solid food before consuming.
Dosage of Alprazolam
Dosage for anxiety disorders
Generic: Alprazolam
- Form: oral immediate-release tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1mg, 2 mg)
- Form: orally disintegrating tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1mg, 2 mg)
Brand: Xanax
- Form: oral immediate-release tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
Brand: Alprazolam Intensol
- Form: oral solution (1 mg per milliliter)
- Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years): 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg three times daily.
Dosage for panic disorder
Generic: Alprazolam
- Form: oral immediate-release tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
- Form: orally disintegrating tablet orally disintegrating tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
Generic: Alprazolam XR
-
- Form: oral extended-release tablet (0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg)
Brand: Xanax
-
- Form: oral immediate-release tablet (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg)
Brand: Xanax XR
-
- Form: oral extended-release tablet (0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, 3 mg)
Brand: Alprazolam Intensol
- Form: oral solution (1 mg/mL)
- Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years): 0.5 mg three times daily.
Missed Dose
Missing one or two doses of Alprazolam typically has no immediate effect. However, it’s essential to take medication on time as advised by your doctor, as sudden changes in chemical levels may occur. If you miss a dose, consult your doctor for guidance on when to take the missed dose.
Overdose
Accidental overdose of Alprazolam may result in harmful effects on the body’s functions, potentially leading to a medical emergency.
Warnings for some Serious Health Conditions
- For people with depression : If you have pre-existing depression, Alprazolam may exacerbate your condition. Contact your doctor immediately if your depression worsens or if you experience suicidal thoughts.
- For people with acute narrow-angle glaucoma: Avoid this medication if you have acute narrow-angle glaucoma, as it may exacerbate your condition.
- For people with liver disease : Your body may struggle to metabolize this drug, leading to higher drug levels and increased side effects.
Storage of Alprazolam
Store Alprazolam at room temperature between 68ºF and 77ºF (20ºC and 25ºC) away from heat, air, and light to prevent damage. Consult your doctor before use. Seek medical attention for any side effects or issues, and always carry your medication while travelling. Follow your prescription and doctor’s advice when taking Alprazolam.
Alprazolam vs Diazepam
| Alprazolam | Diazepam |
|---|---|
| Alprazolam is a prescription medication which is available as brand name drugs called Alprazolam Intensol, Xanax, or Xanax XR. | Diazepam oral tablet is a controlled drug that is available as a brand name drug called Valium. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine. |
| Diazepam is used for the treatment of disorders with anxiety. The medication is also used for the treatment of agitation, tremors, delirium, seizures and hallucinations resulting from alcohol withdrawal. | This medicine is used to treat sudden diarrhea (including traveller diarrhea). It works by slowing down the movement of the intestine. This reduces the number of bowel movements and makes the stool less watery. |
Most common side effects of Alprazolam are:
|
Most of the common side effects of Imodium are:
|
