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What Is Alprazolam?
Alprazolam is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine family, the same family that includes Diazepam (Valium), Clonazepam, Lorazepam (Ativan), and others. Alprazolam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that slows down activity in the brain. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may cause anxiety or other psychiatric disorders.
Alprazolam 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 (for example, driving), and can require higher dosages of Alprazolam.
DOSING:
Alprazolam may be taken with or without food. The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 times daily using immediate release tablets. The dose may be increased every3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily. The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5mg 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 6 mg daily.
Alprazolam interacts with alcohol and medications (for example, alcohol, barbiturates, and narcotics) by exaggerating their slowing of activity in the brain and sedation.
ALPRAZOLAM SIDE EFFECTS:-
The most frequent side effects of alprazolam taken at lower doses are drowsiness or lightheadedness, which probably reflect the normal actions 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.
Alprazolam can lead to addiction (dependency), especially at high dosages over prolonged periods of time. Abrupt discontinuation of the Alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting, lightheadedness, 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.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome when using Alprazolam:
Changes in appetite; changes in sexual desire; constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; increased saliva production; lightheadedness; tiredness; trouble concentrating; unsteadiness; weight changes.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur when using
Alprazolam:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; decreased urination; fainting; hallucinations; loss of coordination; memory problems; menstrual changes; muscle twitching; new or worsening mental or mood problems (e.g., depression, irritability, anxiety); overstimulation; red, swollen blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe dizziness; severe or persistent trouble sleeping; suicidal thoughts or actions; trouble speaking (e.g., stammering, stuttering); yellowing of the eyes or skin.
This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your health care provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
All medicines may cause side effects, but many people have no, or minor, side effects. Check with your doctor if any of these most COMMON side effects persist or become bothersome when using
Alprazolam Solution:
Changes in appetite; changes in sexual desire; constipation; dizziness; drowsiness; dry mouth; increased saliva production; lightheadedness; tiredness; trouble concentrating; unsteadiness; weight changes.
Seek medical attention right away if any of these SEVERE side effects occur when using
Alprazolam Solution:
Severe allergic reactions (rash; hives; itching; difficulty breathing; tightness in the chest; swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue); confusion; decreased urination; fainting;
hallucinations; loss of coordination; memory problems; menstrual changes; muscle twitching; new or worsening mental or mood problems (e.g., depression, irritability, anxiety);overstimulation; red, swollen blistered, or peeling skin; seizures; severe dizziness; severe or persistent trouble sleeping; suicidal thoughts or actions; trouble speaking (e.g., stammering, stuttering); yellowing of the eyes or skin.
Rare Alprazolam Side Effects
Rare Alprazolam side effects that may occur include diarrhea, muscle spasms, problems urinating, decreased libido, and blurry vision. Some of these Alprazolam side effects can also be common Alprazolam withdrawal symptoms or signs of abuse. Please consult your physician if any of these Alprazolam side effects become too much of a nuisance over time.
Other rare Alprazolam side effects include:
* Stomach cramps or abdominal pain
* Constipation
* Nausea or vomiting
* Shaking or trembling
* Unusual weakness or fatigue
You should immediately consult your physician if you experience the following Alprazolam side effects:
* Confusion
* Anxiety
* Irregular, pounding, or fast heartbeat
* Mental depression
* Memory loss
* Seizures
* Delusions of hallucinations
* Angry outbursts or other behavioral changes
* Bleeding or bruising
* Sore throat, chills, and fever
* Low blood pressure
* Itching or skin rash
* Sores or ulcers in the throat or mouth
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