Xanax

Xanax - Alprazolam

Xanax, the brand name for the prescription drug 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.

Xanax 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 Xanax. Xanax should be stored out of the reach of children and in a tightly sealed container. Xanax may be taken with or without food. Xanax is metabolized by the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney. Dosages of Xanax may need to be lowered in patients with abnormal kidney function.

Potentially dangerous drug interactions can occur when taking Xanax. Xanax should not be taken with ketoconazole or itraconazole. Alcohol should be avoided by patients taking benzodiazepines. Xanax can lead to addiction (dependency), especially at high dosages over prolonged periods of time. Because of Xanax’s addicting potential, dosages should never be increased by the patient. In patients addicted to Xanax, 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. Additionally, Xanax can cause fetal problems and should not be used in pregnancy or in nursing mothers.

The most frequent side effects of Xanax 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. Xanax is also a fairly common street drug due to some of its effects. Xanax is dangerous as such due to its potential side effects, the risk of fatal consequences when overdosing on it, as well as the addiction that can be caused by taking Xanax.