Xanax (Alprazolam)
Brand Names: Niravam, Xanax, Xanax XRRelated Medications: Ativan, Ativan Injection, Buspar, Dalmane, Diazepam, Diazepam Injection, Halcion, Klonopin, Librium, Neurontin, Thorazine, Valium
Xanax (alprazolam) is a drug that belongs to benzodiazepines. It was first approved for treating panic disorders and released in 1981. Now it is the most popular drug among benzodiazepines, which is prescribed most often. The medication is released in the form of tablets and extended-release capsules. It possesses potent and therapeutic anticonvulsant, anti-anxiety and sedative effects. Before taking Xanax, it is recommended to consult a healthcare provider to ensure the high level of safety and effectiveness of this drug.
Xanax is used for treating anxiety and panic disorders as well as nausea due to chemotherapy. It may be prescribed for managing generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, various phobias and some other anxiety disorders.
Generally, it is considered to be a highly effective benzodiazepine. The medication acts pretty quickly in the body. The first effects from its use can be expected to appear within the first hour. All the effects after taking this medication typically last for at least 6 hours.
Xanax should not be used by patients who have an allergic reaction to its components. This drug is not suitable for people who take itraconazole or ketoconazole or have acute narrow-angle glaucoma. Before prescribing this drug, your doctor should find out how often and how much alcohol you usually consume and whether you take other drugs or supplements. It is recommended to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Xanax.
Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or feeding your baby with breast milk. Do not adjust the dosage of Xanax without consulting your healthcare provider, including decreasing the dosage. Being one of benzodiazepines, Xanax may cause emotional and physical dependence. In order to avoid the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms, the use of this drug should not be stopped suddenly, but as it is recommended by your healthcare provider.
There are 881 drugs that are able to interact with Xanax. Avoid using this medication along with other psychotropic drugs, antihistaminics, anticonvulsants, ethanol and other drugs that may cause CNS depression.
The following medications should be taken with Xanax carefully, provided that their simultaneous use is accepted by a healthcare provider:
The following side effects occur more often than others:
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