What is Xanax? How does it work (mechanism of action)?

Alprazolam (Xanax XR, Niravam), is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine drug family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Alprazolam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits activity in the brain. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may cause anxiety or other psychiatric disorders. The FDA approved alprazolam in October 1981.

What are the side effects of Xanax?

The most common side effects of Xanax taken at lower doses are:

Other side effects include:

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What are the withdrawal symptoms of Xanax?

Withdrawal Addiction is more likely to occur at high doses given over prolonged periods. Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as:

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.

What is the dosage for Xanax? How is it taken?

  • The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 to 4 times daily using immediate release tablets. The dose may be increased every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily.
  • The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily.
  • The effective dose for preventing panic attacks may be as high as 10 mg daily for some patients. The starting dose when using extended release tablets to treat panic disorder is 0.5 mg once daily and the average dose is 3-6 mg once daily.
  • Alprazolam may be taken with or without food.

QUESTION

Panic attacks are repeated attacks of fear that can last for several minutes. See Answer

Which drugs or supplements interact with Xanax?

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Is alprazolam safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?

What else should I know about Xanax?

Alprazolam is available as:

  • Tablets: 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg.
  • Tablets ER (extended release): 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 mg.
  • Tablets (Orally disintegrating): 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg. Solution: 1 mg/ml

Keep alprazolam should be stored at room temperature, 15 C to 30 C (59 F to 86 F).

Alprazolam is available in generic form, and you need a prescription from your doctor or other health-care professional to obtain this drug.

Brand names for alprazolam are Xanax, Xanax XR, and Niravam.

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Medically Reviewed on 11/14/2019

References

FDA Prescribing Information