Tablets, oral solution
To treat anxiety and panic disorder.
In general, alprazolam produces mild sedation by depressing activity in the central nervous system. In particular, alprazolam appears to enhance the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural chemical that inhibits the firing of neurons and dampens the transmission of nerve signals, thus decreasing nervous excitation.
Adults: Initial dose is 1.5 mg a day, taken in three divided doses; may be gradually increased to a maximum dose of 4 mg a day. Older adults: Initial dose is 0.5 to 0.75 mg per day, taken in two or three divided doses; may be gradually increased to a maximum dose of 2 mg a day. Children: Not usually prescribed.
Two hours.
Up to six hours.
Alprazolam can be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk.
Store in a tightly sealed container away from heat and direct light.
If you miss a dose, take it if you remember within one hour. Otherwise, skip the missed dose and take the next one at the regular time. Do not double the next dose.
Never stop taking the drug abruptly, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms (seizures, sleep disruption, nervousness, irritability, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, muscle aches, memory impairment). Dosage should be reduced gradually as directed by your doctor.
Short-term therapy (eight weeks or less) is typical; do not take it for a longer period unless so advised by your doctor.
Use with caution; side effects such as drowsiness and dizziness may be more pronounced in older patients.
Alprazolam can impair mental alertness and physical coordination. Adjust your activities accordingly.
Alcohol intake should be extremely moderate or stopped altogether while taking alprazolam.
Use of this drug during pregnancy should be avoided if possible. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
Alprazolam passes into breast milk; do not take it while nursing.
Safety and effectiveness have not been established for children under age 18.
Use of this drug can lead to psychological or physical dependence. Short-term therapy (eight weeks or less) is typical; patients should not take the drug for a longer period unless so advised by their doctor. Never take more than the prescribed daily dose.
Extreme drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, slow reflexes, poor coordination, staggering gait, tremor, slowed breathing, loss of consciousness.
Call your doctor, emergency medical services (EMS), or the nearest poison control center immediately.
Other drugs may interact with alprazolam. Consult your doctor for specific advice if you are taking any drugs that depress the central nervous system; these include antihistamines, antidepressants (including nefazodone) or other psychiatric medications, barbiturates, sedatives, cough medicines, decongestants, and painkillers. Be sure your doctor knows about any over-the-counter medication you may take.
None reported.
Consult your doctor if you have a history of alcohol or drug abuse, stroke or other brain disease, any chronic lung disease, hyperactivity, depression or other mental illness, myasthenia gravis, sleep apnea, epilepsy, porphyria, kidney disease, or liver disease.
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