Drug Name: Xanax
Drug Class: BENZODIAZEPINES
Generic Name: alprazolam ( al- PRAZ-oh – lam)
Uses: Alprazolam is used to treat symptoms of restlessness, aches, trembling, wheezing, smothering sensation, palpitations or irregular heartbeat, sweating, cold clammy hands, lightheadedness, flushing, exaggerated startle responses, problems concentrating and insomnia. These are brought about by anxiety disorders experienced by an individual. Alprazolam is also used for the treatment of panic attacks. One out of 75 people are likely to develop panic attacks at one point in their lives.
Some conditions that have been treated by Alprazolam are palpitations,insomnia, anxiety disorders, and panic attacks.
How to use: Alprazolam may be taken either with or without food. Panic attacks may need a higher dosage.
Side Effects: Lower doses of Alprazolam may bring about side effects such as drowsiness and lightheadedness. Higher doses on the other hand may cause fatigue, memory problems, speech problems, constipation, and a change in appetite which may also lead to weight change.
Precautions: The doctor should be notified if you are pregnant, or is expecting to get pregnant. Taking Alprazolam may cause problems to both the mother and the baby. This should be avoided. Alcohol use should also be avoided during treatment. Alprazolam has an addicting potential, the dosage should not be increased unless indicated by your doctor. An abrupt stopping of the medication may lead to a withdrawal symptom to an individual. Seizures can also result due to these withdrawals. These may include unusual sensations, uncontrollable muscle spasms and loss of consciousness. In the case of addiction, the doctor should slowly cut the medication with his supervision and should not just be stopped immediately by the patient. It is very important to notify your doctor about any complications.
There are precautionary measures to remember when urgent needs come along during seizures and withdrawal symptoms.
Drug Interaction: The doctor should be informed if you are taking ketoconazole and itraconazole together with alprazolam treatment. Both these medications are for the treatment of fungal infection. Ketoconazole is used for the treatment of fungal infection particularly those that can spread to different parts of the body through the bloodstream. Aspergillosis and fungal infection localized to the toenails and fingernails are some of the conditions that itraconazole is used for.
Overdose: Drowsiness, confusion, problems with coordination and coma are some of the possible effects of overdose. Call your local poison center or other emergency services in case of overdose.
Notes: You should consult your doctor about drinking grapefruit if under aprazolam treatment. This may have certain interactions with the drug.
Missed Dose: You should never double up your dosage in case of a missed dose. You should take it as soon as you have remembered it but if it is almost time for the next one, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule.
Important Note: Keep all your appointments with your doctor.
Storage: Alprazolam should be placed in a tightly closed container and stored at room temperature.
External sources for Alprazolam:
