What is Alprazolam?

What is Alprazolam?

• Alprazolam is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

• Alprazolam is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. Alprazolam is also used to treat panic disorders.

• Alprazolam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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What is the most important information I should know about alprazolam?

• Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Alprazolam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.

• Avoid alcohol while taking alprazolam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by alprazolam.

• Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form alprazolam (Xanax XR). Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.

• Alprazolam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if alprazolam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is Alprazolam What is Alprazolam What is Alprazolam prescription drugs drug doctor pharmacist pharmacy

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alprazolam?

• Do not take alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Alprazolam may worsen this condition.

• Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

     · have kidney disease;

     · have liver disease;

     · have a history of alcohol or drug abuse;

     · have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease;

     · are depressed or have suicidal thoughts; or

     · have mania, bipolar disorder, or another psychiatric condition (other than anxiety or panic disorder).

• You may not be able to take alprazolam, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

• Alprazolam is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that alprazolam is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

• It is not known whether alprazolam passes into breast milk. Do not take alprazolam without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

• If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from alprazolam. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of the medication.

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How should I take alprazolam?

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Take alprazolam exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

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Take each dose with a full glass of water.

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Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form alprazolam (Xanax XR). Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.

•

Do not take more of the medication than is prescribed for you.

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Alprazolam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if alprazolam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

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Store alprazolam at room temperature away from moisture and heat.