What condition does Alprazolam treat?
Alprazolam is used for the treatment of certain anxiety and panic disorders. It usually happens because of the depression that people are experiencing. Panic disorder is diagnosed in people who are very preoccupied with the fear of a recurring attack. It occurs unexpectedly and sometimes even when waking up from sleep.
This is an anti-anxiety medication that is in the class of drugs called a benzodiazepine. In the year 1981, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this prescription.
How does Alprazolam work?
Alprazolam acts by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that inhibits the activity in the brain. The Neurotransmitter is a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other. It is assumed that too much activity in the brain may reason for anxiety or other psychiatric conditions.
How to use Alprazolam?
The recommended dosage for this medication will depend on your condition and response.
- For anxiety, the starting dose is 0.25-0.5mg taken 3-4 times a day. The dose may increase every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4mg daily.
- For panic attacks, the starting dose is 0.5mg taken 3 times a day. The doses can be increased every 3-4 days but no more than 1mg daily.
This medication may be taken with or without food. Do not take Alprazolam in larger amounts for longer than prescribed. Follow all the instructions given by your doctor. Inform your doctor if the medicine seems to stop working well in treating your symptoms. Also, do not stop taking this medicine suddenly or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ask your doctor about how you can safely stop using this medication.
What are the possible side effects of Alprazolam?
- Dry mouth
- Stuffy nose
- Appetite or weight changes
- Muscle weakness
- Upset stomach
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Increased sweating
- Irritability
- Trouble concentrating
- Slurred speech
- Poor balance or coordination
- Insomnia
- Dizziness
- Vomiting
If these side effects persist or worsen, call your doctor right away.
What are the precautions in taking Alprazolam?
- Before taking Alprazolam, inform your doctor if you are allergic to it. As well as if you have any allergies, medical history, or current medications.
- Do not operate machinery or drive a car until you know how this drug affects you. This might make you feel dizzy or tired.
- If you missed a dose, do not take two doses to make up for the missed one. Call your doctor and ask for further instructions.
- Dangerous side effects might occur if you do not avoid drinking alcohol.
- This medication should not be used during pregnancy. This may cause birth defects and may cause life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in the baby after it is born. Let your doctor know if you plan to become pregnant or got pregnant while taking Alprazolam.
- Alprazolam can pass into breast milk and might harm a nursing baby. You should not breastfeed while you are taking this medication.
- Do not share this with others who have the same symptoms as yours.
- Keep this away from the heat, moisture, and the reach of children.
