What is Alprazolam?

Alprazolam, also known as Xanax, is a short-acting tranquilizer belonging to the triazolobenzodiazepine (benzodiazepines with triazole rings) class of drugs.

This medication can be used to treat short-term anxiety disorders such as panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder caused by depression.

Purchasing this medicine from the Internet or outside the United States is not safe. It is not under the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommendation to sell and distribute this medicine outside the United States.

Some of these medicines may have dangerous ingredients, or they may not be distributed by licensed pharmacies.

How to take Alprazolam?

Alprazolam should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Read carefully and follow all the directions on the prescription label, medication guides, or instruction sheets. Occasionally, your doctor may change your dose. Do not take it in smaller or larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Let the doctor know if you are feeling an increased urge to use this medicine.

Never share alprazolam with another person, especially someone with a past of drug abuse or addiction. Misuse of this drug may lead to overdose, addiction, or death. It is against the law to sell or give away this medicine.

Carefully measure the dose of liquid medicine. Use a dosing syringe or a medicine dose-measuring device to measure the liquid.

Swallow the whole extended-release tablet without crushing, chewing, or breaking it.

Do not swallow the whole oral disintegrating tablet. Allow the oral tablet to dissolve in your mouth instead of chewing.

Alprazolam is typically taken for no longer than ten months in the case of panic disorder, and for no longer than four months in the case of anxiety disorder. Carefully follow the instructions of your doctor regarding doses.

Check with the doctor if there is no improvement in your symptoms or if they get worse.

You may have the requirement of frequent medical tests if you are using this medicine for the long term.

Do not go for a sudden stop in using this medicine, or you could face unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Consult the doctor before tapering your dose.

Maintain a record of the medicines at room temperature away from moisture and heat. You should be aware if anyone is misusing it or using it without a prescription.

Throw away the alprazolam liquid that is not in use within 90 days.

What to know before taking Alprazolam?

You should avoid taking Alprazolam if:

• You also take ketoconazole or itraconazole (antifungal medicines); or
• You have a past of an allergic reaction to benzodiazepine (Diazepam, Alprazolam, Ativan, lorazepam, Restoril, Klonopin, Tranxene, Restoril, Valium, Xanax, Versed, and others).

To ensure this medicine is safe for you, tell the doctor if you have ever had:

• Drug or alcohol addiction;
• Kidney or liver disease (alcoholic liver disease);
• Mood problems, depression, or suicidal thoughts/behavior; or
• Breathing problems including sleep apneas or COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)

Tell the doctor about your pregnancy or your plan to conceive. This medicine may harm an unborn baby. Avoid using Alprazolam during the first trimester of pregnancy.

If you are using Alprazolam while you are pregnant, you may give birth to a drug-dependent baby. After the birth of the baby, it may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. Babies dependent on habit-forming drugs may need medical treatment for several weeks.

You should avoid breastfeeding while using Alprazolam.

Alprazolam is not under the recommendation for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

What are the benefits of using Alprazolam?

Alprazolam helps treat panic disorders, anxiety disorders, and anxiety due to depression.

It works by enhancing the effects of natural chemicals in the body known as GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric acid).

What are the side effects of Alprazolam?

Go for emergency medical help if you have allergic reactions due to the use of Alprazolam. Signs of an allergic reaction include breathing issues, hives, swelling of your face, throat, lips, or tongue.

Alprazolam may make your breath slow or stop it; especially you were recently using alcohol, an opioid medication, or other drugs that can slow your breathing. Your attendant should seek medical help if you have weak or shallow breathing, if you stop breathing, or if you are hard to wake up.

Call your doctor instantly if you have:

• Lightheadedness)
• weak or shallow breathing)
• Risk-taking behavior, hallucinations)
• A seizure)
• Being agitated or talkative, racing thoughts)
• Decreased need for sleep, increased energy)
• Jaundice) or
• Double vision

Older adults are more likely to have the sedative effects of Alprazolam for a longer time. Use caution to avoid fall or accidental injury because it is common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines.

Common side effects of Alprazolam may include:

• Feeling lightheaded; or
• Drowsiness

It is not a complete list of side effects, and others may occur. Take your doctor’s advice regarding side effects. Report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

How does Alprazolam work?

Alprazolam works by inducing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain that are known as Gamma-Aminobutyric acid.

What to avoid while using Alprazolam?

Avoid alcohol consumption. Serious side effects or death may occur.

Avoid drinking alcohol and performing any hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Drowsiness or dizziness can cause accidents, falls, or severe injuries.

Interaction of grapefruit with Alprazolam can lead to unwanted side effects. Avoid using grapefruit products.