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GENERIC NAME: alprazolam
BRAND NAME: Xanax
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Alprazolam
is a member of the benzodiazepine family.
Benzodiazepines are sedatives that cause
dose-related depression of the central nervous
system. They are useful in treating anxiety,
insomnia, and muscle spasms.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: yes
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 0.25mg, 0.5mg,
1mg, 2mg.
STORAGE: Alprazolam should be stored
at room temperature in a tightly closed
container.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Alprazolam is used for
the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic
attacks. Anxiety disorders are characterized by
unrealistic worry and apprehension, causing
symptoms of restlessness, aches, trembling,
shortness of breath, smothering sensation, palpitations, sweating,
cold clammy hands, lightheadedness, flushing,
exaggerated startle responses, problems
concentrating, and insomnia. Panic attacks occur
either unexpectedly or in certain situations
(i.e. driving), and can require higher dosages
of alprazolam.
DOSING: Alprazolam may be taken with
or without food. Alprazolam is metabolized by
the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney.
Dosages of alprazolam may need to be lowered in
patients with abnormal kidney function.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Alprazolam should
not be taken with ketoconazole or itraconazole. Alcohol
should be avoided by patients taking
benzodiazepines. Alprazolam can lead to
addiction (dependency), especially at high
dosages over prolonged periods of time. Because
of alprazolam's addicting potential, dosages
should never be increased by the patient. In
patients addicted to alprazolam, abrupt
discontinuation of the medicine can lead to
symptoms of withdrawal (insomnia, headaches,
nausea, vomiting, light headedness, sweating ,
anxiety, and fatigue). Seizures can occur in
more severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently,
patients on alprazolam for extended periods of
time should slowly taper the medication under a
doctor's supervision rather than abruptly
stopping the medication.
PREGNANCY: Benzodiazepines, such as
alprazolam, can cause fetal problems and should
not be used in pregnancy or in nursing
mothers.
NURSING MOTHERS: Benzodiazepines, such
as alprazolam, can cause fetal problems and
should not be used in pregnancy or in nursing
mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent side
effects of alprazolam taken at lower doses are
drowsiness or lightheadedness, which probably
reflect the action of the drug. Side effects of
higher dosages (those used for panic attacks)
include fatigue, memory problems, speech
problems, constipation, and changes
in appetite with resultant changes in weight.
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