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What Is Alprazolam (Xanax) and How Does It Work?Alprazolam is a prescription medication indicated for the treatment of anxiety disorder (a condition corresponding most closely to the APA Diagnostic and Statistical Manual [DSM-III-R] diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder), or the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety. Generalized anxiety disorder (also anxiety) is characterized by unrealistic or excessive anxiety and worry over circumstances of life for a period of time. Anxiety or tension problems associated with the stress of everyday life usually do not require treatment with this drug. Alprazolam tablets are also indicated for the treatment of the panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia. This drug is also used as a treatment for anxiety associated with depression. Alprazolam belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are medications that have anti-anxiety-producing properties. This medication must be prescribed by a doctor and is available by prescription only. This medication should not be used by patients who are pregnant. The use of this drug may affect the health of the baby.
QUESTIONPanic attacks are repeated attacks of fear that can last for several minutes. See AnswerWhat Are Dosages of Alprazolam (Xanax)?Dosages of Alprazolam (Xanax) Should Be Given As Follows: Adult Dosage Forms & Strengths Tablet: Schedule IV
Tablet, extended-release: Schedule IV
Tablet, orally disintegrating: Schedule IV
Oral solution: Schedule IV
Dosage Considerations of Alprazolam (Xanax) Treatment of Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders
Panic Disorder Treatment (Panic and Anxiety Attacks) Immediate-release
Extended-release
Treatment for Anxiety Associated With Depression
Treatment of Premenstrual Syndrome (Off-label)
Dosing Modifications Renal impairment
Advanced hepatic impairment
Not recommended for use in patients 18 years and younger. Treatment of Geriatric Dose Panic Disorder Immediate-release:
Extended-release:
Geriatric Dose Anxiety Associated With Depression
Maintenance
Geriatric Dosing Considerations
What Are Side Effects Associated with Using Alprazolam (Xanax)?Common side effects of alprazolam (Xanax) include:
Serious adverse reactions of alprazolam (Xanax) include:
Side effects of alprazolam (Xanax) from postmarketing reports:
This document does not contain all possible side effects and other serious side effects may occur. Check with your doctor for additional health information about common problems or negative side effects associated with this medicine. Patients taking this medicine should not use alcohol. SLIDESHOWAnxiety Disorder Pictures: Symptoms, Panic Attacks, and More with Pictures See SlideshowWhat Other Drugs Interact with Alprazolam (Xanax)?If your doctor has directed you to use this prescription medication, your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions, health risks and side effects, and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of this drug or any medicine before checking with your doctor, health care provider or pharmacist first. Severe Interactions of alprazolam (Xanax) include:
Serious Interactions of alprazolam (Xanax) include:
Alprazolam (Xanax) has moderate interactions with at least 264 different drugs. Minor interactions of alprazolam (Xanax) include:
This document does not contain all possible interactions of this drug with other drugs. Therefore, before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the medications you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list of drugs with your doctor and pharmacist. Check with your doctor if you have health questions or concerns. What Are Warnings and Precautions for Alprazolam (Xanax)?Warnings
Contraindications
Effects of Drug Abuse
Short-term Effects
Long-term Effects
Cautions
Pregnancy and Lactation
From References SOURCE: What are the most common side effects of alprazolam?Alprazolam may cause side effects.. drowsiness.. light-headedness.. headache.. tiredness.. dizziness.. irritability.. talkativeness.. difficulty concentrating.. What is the effect of alprazolam?Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA).
Does alprazolam cause drowsiness?Alprazolam may cause drowsiness, so caution should be used when combining it with other medications that cause drowsiness. These could include: Antihistamines such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl®) Narcotic pain medication such as morphine, oxycodone (OxyContin®), and hydrocodone (Vicodin® and Lortab®)
Is alprazolam a sedative?Xanax is the brand name for Alprazolam, a prescription Sedative in the Benzodiazepines family. Benzodiazepines were originally developed as a replacement for Barbiturates. Xanax affects the brain and Central Nervous System (CNS).
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