Medications and Drugs

Phobias Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: ALPRAZOLAM - ORAL (al-PRAZ-oh-lam)

BRAND NAME(S): Xanax

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: 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).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. This medication may cause dependence, especially if it has been used regularly for an extended period of time, or if it has been used in high doses. In such cases, if you suddenly stop this drug, withdrawal reactions including seizures may occur. Report any such reactions to your doctor immediately. When stopping extended, regular treatment with this drug, the dosage should be gradually reduced as directed to help prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Though it is very unlikely to occur, this medication can also result in abnormal drug-seeking behavior (addiction/habit-forming). Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently, or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed. Properly stop this medication when so directed. This will lessen the chances of becoming addicted. When used for an extended period, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Drowsiness or dizziness may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: mental/mood changes, slurred speech, clumsiness, trouble walking, decreased/increased interest in sex. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: yellowing eyes or skin, signs of infection (e.g., persistent sore throat, fever). A serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.