Alprazolam is an anxiolytic drug that belongs to the class of benzodiazepine. The generic name is Alprazolam and brand name is Xanax XR, Niravam, and Xanax. Alprazolam influence certain chemicals present in brain that get unbalanced in people suffering from anxiety.
Alprazolam is used to treat panic and anxiety disorders and is helpful in treating anxiety that occurs as a result of depression.
Important information
Avoid using Alprazolam if you are suffering from narrow angle glaucoma, if you use ketoconazole, itraconazole or if you are allergic to Alprazolam or similar drugs like Tranxene, Valium or Ativan.
Avoid using Alprazolam if you are pregnant as this medication can lead to birth defects or fatal withdrawal symptoms in newborn baby.
Alprazolam can be addictive too. Misusing this medication can lead to overdose, addiction or even death.
Avoid drinking alcohol while you are on Alprazolam. This medication can enhance the effects of alcohol. Since the medication can be habit forming, it should be used by only the person whom it is being prescribed to. Store the medication in a place where others cannot access it.
Things to remember before taking Alprazolam
It is quite dangerous to buy Alprazolam through vendors outside U.S. or through internet.
To ensure Alprazolam is suitable for you, speak to your doctor if you have
- epilepsy or seizures
- liver or kidney disease
- open angle glaucoma
- breathing disorder or asthma
- history of suicidal thoughts/behaviour or depression
- history of alcohol or drug addiction
Dosing Information
Normal Adult dose of Alprazolam- Anxiety
Immediate release tablets, oral concentrate, orally disintegrating tablets
Initial dose: 0.25-05mg to be taken orally- thrice a day
This dose can be increased gradually after every 3-4 days if required and depending upon patient’s tolerance to the medication.
Maintenance dose: Can increase up to daily dose of maximum 4mg in split doses
Normal Adult dose of Alprazolam- Panic disorder
Immediate release tablets, orally disintegrating tablets
Initial dose: 0.5mg to be taken orally- thrice a day
This dose can be increased gradually after every 3-4 days if required and depending upon patient’s tolerance to the medication.
Maintenance dose: 1-10mg/day in split doses
Alprazolam and pregnancy
Do not use Alprazolam when you are pregnant as it can lead to life threatening effects. Babies born to mothers who take Alprazolam require medication for many weeks post birth. You can see harmful withdrawal symptoms in new born baby so avoid using the medication during pregnancy.
Alprazolam and breastfeeding
Alprazolam secrets into breast milk and can harm a breastfeeding baby. Do not breastfeed your baby while you are using Alprazolam.
Alprazolam- Side effects
- drowsiness
- memory problems
- feeling tired
- lack of coordination, balance or slurred speech
Drug Interactions
Taking this medication with other drugs can make you feel drowsy so speak to your physician if you are using this medication with sleeping pill, muscle relaxer, pain medicine (narcotic), and medicine for depression, seizures or anxiety. Speak to your doctor if you are using the following medicines or stopped using them
- nefazodone
- digoxin;
- fluvoxamine
- cimetidine
- ritonavir or other drugs to treat AIDS, HIV
- antifungal medicine- voriconazole, fluconazole