Alprazolam Immediate-Release Oral Tablet: Dose, Adverse Effects, Applications, and Additional Information

What is Diazepam's Equivalent?

Alprazolam Immediate-Release Oral Tablet: Dose, Adverse Effects, Applications, and Additional Information

Diazepam's equivalent, in the form of a generic prescription medication, is Alprazolam. This drug is approved for various uses in adults, including:

• managing anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder with or without agoraphobia (fear of being in places where escape might be difficult)
• providing temporary relief from intense, persistent worry (generalized anxiety disorder)

For more details, refer to the "Alprazolam uses" section below.

Drug properties

Alprazolam falls under the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

Alprazolam oral tablets are available in immediate-release form in four strengths: 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg. The "immediate-release" label means that the drug is quickly released into your system after consumption.

Besides the immediate-release tablets, Alprazolam is also available as orally disintegrating tablets, oral solution, and extended-release oral tablets. However, this text focuses on the immediate-release oral tablets only. Consult your doctor for more details on other forms.

Brand-name version

Alprazolam for panic disorder

The brand-name version of Alprazolam's immediate-release oral tablets is called Xanax. To learn how these drugs compare, explore this link.

Alprazolam is a generic drug. A generic drug is an exact replica of the active ingredient in a brand-name medication. Xanax is the brand-name medication that underlies Alprazolam. A generic drug is considered just as safe and effective as the original medieval substance. As a rule, generics tend to be less expensive than brand-name drugs.

If you're interested in taking Xanax instead of Alprazolam, share your thoughts with your doctor. They will inform you if Xanax is available as a prescription for your specific condition and if your insurance covers it.

To explore more about how generics compare to brand-name drugs, follow this link.

Form

Alprazolam dosage

The dosage recommended by your doctor depends on several factors such as:

immediate-release* oral tablet

• the type and severity of your condition
• your age
• other medical conditions you may have
• other medications you are taking

Generally, your doctor will start you on a low dosage and progressively increase it to achieve the optimal level for you. The final dose prescribed will be the smallest dosage that produces the desired effect.

Below, you'll find typical dosages and recommendations for Alprazolam. However, please follow your doctor's prescription instead.

Dosage for panic disorder

Strengths

Following is the Alprazolam dosage information for treating panic disorder.

| || --- || Alprazolam for panic disorder || Form | immediate-release oral tablet || Strengths | • 0.25 mg• 0.5 mg• 1 mg• 2 mg || Initial dose | 0.5 mg || Frequency | three times a day |

• 0.25 milligrams (mg)• 0.5 mg• 1 mg• 2 mg

The maximum daily dose for panic disorder is 10 mg, split into three doses.

Dosage for generalized anxiety disorder

Here's Alprazolam dosage information for the short-term management of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The duration of "short-term" may vary depending on the patient. For more clarity, visit this section below.

| || --- || Alprazolam for GAD || Form | immediate-release oral tablet || Strengths | • 0.25 mg• 0.5 mg• 1 mg• 2 mg || Initial dose | 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg || Frequency | three times a day |

Starting dose

The maximum daily dose for the short-term treatment of GAD is 4 mg, divided into three doses.

What if I miss a dose?

0.5 mg

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if your next dose is due soon, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions concerning missed doses.

It's important to remember not to take double doses to compensate for missed doses. Also, avoid taking extra doses to catch up for missed doses. This can result in severe side effects (for more information, refer to the "Alprazolam side effects" section below).

To ensure you don’t miss a dose, consider using a medication reminder. This includes setting alarms or using timers. Alternatively, you can download a reminder app on your phone.

Will I need to take this drug long-term?

How often

Alprazolam is not intended for long-term use. Your doctor will typically prescribe it for the shortest duration. However, the duration considered "short-term" may vary depending on the individual patient. Your doctor will collaborate with you to manage your symptoms using Alprazolam for the shortest period possible.

For further insights into the potential adverse effects of alprazolam, engage in a conversation with your physician or pharmacist. They can offer guidance on managing any bothersome or concerning side effects.

three times per day

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) keeps track of medications it has authorized, including side effects. If you've experienced side effects from alprazolam, you can report them through MedWatch.

Below is a brief rundown of mild side effects associated with alprazolam. For more details, consult your doctor or pharmacist, or refer to alprazolam's prescribing information.

Mild side effects of alprazolam may include:

• drowsiness
• feeling dizzy or lightheaded
• muscle weakness
• balance issues or coordination problems
• slower reaction times
• speech difficulties or trouble concentrating
• memory problems
• appetite changes
• irritability
• constipation
• dry mouth
• low blood pressure
• nausea
• weight fluctuation
• changes in sex drive
• minor allergic reaction*

In many cases, these side effects subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they worsen or persist, reach out to your doctor or pharmacist.

Severe side effects

Although severe side effects from alprazolam are uncommon, they can occur. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects. Dial 911 or your local emergency number if your symptoms seem life-threatening or if you believe you're experiencing a medical emergency.

Potentially serious side effects can encompass:

Alprazolam for GAD

• decreased capacity to safely perform tasks requiring alertness and coordination, such as driving
• seizures
• hallucinations (perceiving things that are not real)
• liver complications
• risks of dependence and withdrawal*†
• risks of misuse and addiction*‡
• risk of severe harm or death when combined with opioids*‡
• severe allergic reaction

Side effects in older adults

Older adults (65 years and above) have a higher propensity for side effects with alprazolam compared to younger adults.

Specifically, older adults are more likely to encounter issues with concentration and memory while taking this medication. In addition, they may experience drowsiness and slowed reaction times, as well as trouble with coordination or balance. These problems can augment the risk of falls.

Form

If you're 65 years old or older, your doctor will likely prescribe a lower dose of alprazolam, aiming to minimize your risk of side effects. If you have any concerns, discuss them with your doctor.

*ALLERGIC REACTION*Although uncommon, an allergic reaction can occur after using alprazolam, as observed in its clinical trials.

immediate-release* oral tablet

Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction can include:

• skin rash
• itching
• flushing

A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction can include:

• swelling under your skin, typically around your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of your tongue, mouth, or throat
• difficulty breathing

Strengths

Contact your doctor immediately if you have an allergic reaction to alprazolam, as the reaction may worsen. In case your symptoms seem life-threatening or if you think you're experiencing a medical emergency, dial 911 or your local emergency number.

Alprazolam uses

• 0.25 mg• 0.5 mg• 1 mg• 2 mg

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves prescription drugs, such as alprazolam, to treat specific conditions. Alprazolam may also be used off-label for other conditions. Off-label medication use refers to using an FDA-approved drug for a purpose other than its intended use.

Alprazolam for panic disorder

Alprazolam immediate-release oral tablets are FDA-approved for managing panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, in adults. "Immediate release" means that the drug is absorbed into your system quickly after taking it.

Panic disorder explained

Starting dose

Panic disorder is a mental health issues that brings about frequent, unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a sudden, intense sensation of fear and anxiety, causing physical symptoms.

Symptoms of a panic attack can include:

0.25 mg to 0.5 mg

• nausea
• lightheadedness
• shaking
• feeling hot
• shivering
• chest discomfort
• rapid heartbeat
• fast breathing
• sensations of choking
• tingling or numbness
• feelings of detachment from reality
• fear of fainting or dying

With panic disorder, you experience ongoing anxiety about having another panic attack. In addition, you may avoid certain situations due to the fear of having a panic attack, which can lead to agoraphobia – the fear of being in a situation from which it would be challenging to escape or get help.

Panic disorder can substantially impact your daily life, relationships, and work performance.

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication that has a calming and relaxing effect. Its intended use is to help reduce the severity and frequency of panic attacks.

How often

You can learn more about your condition in our anxiety hub.

"Various individuals perceive "short-term treatment" as different time spans. Ultimately, your healthcare provider will collaborate with you to prescribe alprazolam for the least time required to manage your symptoms."

three times per day

Understanding Generalized Anxiety Disorder

GAD is a psychological condition characterizing persistent anxiety and exaggerated worries that go beyond ordinary concerns. Physicians diagnose GAD if you've exhibited symptoms for most days over a period of at least 6 months.

Symptoms of GAD may include:

• continuous, uncontrollable concerns or fears
• obsessive thoughts
• difficulty focusing
• problems sleeping
• restlessness
• agitation
• tension in muscles
• sensation of having a knot in your stomach
• nausea
• diarrhea
• heart racing
• fatigue

GAD can have significant impacts on your daily life, relationships, and ability to work.

Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication that provides a soothing and relaxing effect. It alleviates anxiety and its symptoms.

For additional information regarding your condition, explore our anxiety resource center.

Alprazolam and Minors

Medication type or medication name

Alprazolam is not authorized for any applications in children younger than 18 years old by the FDA.

Frequently Asked Questions about Alprazolam

Medication examples

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about alprazolam.

Is alprazolam approved to treat other conditions, such as sleep issues or seizures?

No. The FDA has approved alprazolam to treat only panic disorders and anxiety in specific situations.

However, doctors might sometimes prescribe alprazolam off-label for sleep problems, especially if these are related to anxiety. The medication can help you fall asleep if you take a dose right before bedtime. Doctors prescribe alprazolam only in certain circumstances, as your sleep problems may return when you stop taking the drug.

opioids

In addition, alprazolam carries a high risk of serious side effects, including misuse and dependence. Due to these risks, doctors will usually recommend other treatments for sleep problems instead.

Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine drug, is not approved to treat seizures. Other benzodiazepines, such as clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium), are approved to treat seizures.

• tramadol (Ultram, ConZip)• codeine• hydrocodone (Hysingla ER)• oxycodone (Oxycontin)• fentanyl (Fentora, Actiq, others)• methadone (Methadose)

If you're interested in treatment for sleep problems or seizures, consult your doctor.

What’s the half-life of alprazolam?

Alprazolam has a half-life of around 11 hours. A drug's half-life is the time it takes for half a dose of the drug to leave your body.

It usually takes around 4 to 5 half-lives for a drug to be fully eliminated from your system. This indicates that it may take 2 to 3 days for alprazolam to completely leave your body once you stop taking it. However, the exact time may vary based on factors such as liver and kidney function, age, and other medications you take.

seizure medications

To learn more about alprazolam's half-life, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How does alprazolam compare with other anxiety drugs, such as Ativan and bromazepam?

• gabapentin (Neurontin)• topiramate (Topamax)

Alprazolam, lorazepam (Ativan), and bromazepam (not available in the US) are all benzodiazepine drugs prescribed for anxiety.

All benzodiazepines slow down the activity in your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). These drugs have calming and muscle-relaxing effects. Benzodiazepines produce similar side effects, but they differ in terms of how quickly they work, how long they last, and their intended uses.

Alprazolam and lorazepam are both short-acting benzodiazepines. They begin working quickly and last for approximately the same duration.

Bromazepam is intermediate-acting, while some other benzodiazepines are longer-acting. Examples include clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium). Along with treating anxiety disorders, these longer-acting drugs have other uses. For example, clonazepam is used to prevent seizures, while diazepam is used as a muscle relaxant.

antipsychotics

In addition, compared to longer-acting benzodiazepines, shorter-acting types have a higher risk of causing withdrawal symptoms when treatment is stopped. For more information on this, see the “Alprazolam dependence and withdrawal” section below.

Your doctor can provide more information about how alprazolam compares to other anxiety drugs.

• haloperidol (Haldol)• clozapine (Clozaril)• risperidone (Risperdal)

Is alprazolam an antidepressant?

No, alprazolam is not an antidepressant. It belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which are often prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and seizures.

Alprazolam can help alleviate anxiety or insomnia associated with depression. However, it does not treat depression itself.

If you're struggling with depression, your medical professional might suggest an antidepressant medication like sertraline (Zoloft). However, it might take a few weeks for this medication to take effect fully. If you're dealing with anxiety or sleep issues alongside your depression, your doctor might additionally prescribe a short-term use of alprazolam. Alprazolam can alleviate these symptoms while the antidepressant starts working.

sleeping pills

Your doctor can guide you on whether an antidepressant, alprazolam, or both are suitable for you.

Alprazolam vs. Xanax

• zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR)• zaleplon (Sonata)• eszopiclone (Lunesta)• daridorexant (Quviviq)

You might be curious about how alprazolam stacks up against other medications used for similar purposes. The brand-name version of alprazolam is called Xanax. For a comparison between alprazolam and Xanax, check out this article.

Alprazolam cautions

This drug comes with several cautions, which are considered drug-condition interactions.

FDA warnings

sedating antihistamines

Alprazolam carries a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This is referred to as a boxed warning. It alerts doctors and patients about potential harmful effects of the drug.

Dependence and withdrawal risks. For more information, see the “Alprazolam dependence and withdrawal” section below.

• hydroxyzine (Vistaril)• promethazine• diphenhydramine (Benadryl)

Misuse and addiction risks. Alprazolam is a controlled substance and a benzodiazepine drug. Such drugs have both a medical use and a risk of misuse and addiction. Misuse involves using the drug in a way or for a purpose not prescribed by a doctor, typically to experience pleasure. Misuse can lead to addiction. With addiction, it becomes challenging to stop taking the drug, even if it causes harm.

Alprazolam misuse and addiction can result in severe side effects, including seizures, breathing problems, paranoia, and suicidal thoughts or actions. Overdose and, in rare instances, death can occur as well. These are more likely if alprazolam is taken with alcohol, opioids, or other drugs. (For specifics, see the “Alprazolam overdose” and “Alprazolam and alcohol” sections below. For more on opioids, see “Risk of severe harm or death if taken with opioids” right below.)

You might be at a higher risk of alprazolam misuse and addiction if you have a history of alcohol or drug misuse or addiction. Your doctor will assess your risk of misuse and addiction prior to prescribing alprazolam.

It's crucial to take alprazolam only as your doctor prescribes. You shouldn't increase your dose or use the medication more frequently than prescribed without having your doctor's approval.

certain antidepressants

If you experience any signs of alprazolam misuse or addiction, discuss these symptoms with your doctor. These symptoms might include:

• using alprazolam in higher doses or more frequently than prescribed
• craving the drug
• sparing a significant amount of time trying to obtain alprazolam
• experiencing issues with work, relationships, or health due to taking alprazolam

• amitriptyline• trazodone• mirtazapine (Remeron)

Your doctor can help address any questions you have.

Severe harm or death risk if taken with opioids. An opioid is a potent pain-relieving drug. Combining alprazolam with an opioid can cause serious side effects. These may include excessive sleepiness, breathing problems, coma, and in rare cases, death.

Taking alprazolam with an opioid should be done only if recommended by your doctor. Alprazolam is typically prescribed with an opioid only when there are no better options.

Examples of opioids include:

CYP3A inhibitors*

• codeine
• hydrocodone (Hysingla ER)
• oxycodone (Oxycontin)
• fentanyl (Fentora, Actiq, others)

Drugs used to treat opioid use disorder, such as methadone (Methadose), are also opioids.

• clarithromycin• ketoconazole• itraconazole (Sporanox, Tolsura)• cimetidine (Tagamet HB)• erythromycin (Eryc, Ery-Tab, others)• fluvoxamine (Luvox)• nefazodone• ritonavir (Norvir)

If your doctor recommends taking alprazolam with an opioid, they'll prescribe the lowest possible dose of both drugs for the shortest possible time. They'll likely also provide you with naloxone (Narcan) to keep on hand. Narcan is a nasal spray that can be used in an emergency to counteract the effects of opioids.

If you're prescribed alprazolam with an opioid, inform people you live with and people you're close to. They should administer Narcan and call 911 (or the local emergency number) right away if you become extremely sleepy or don't respond to physical or verbal stimulation. They should also call if you have slow, shallow breathing or your breathing stops.

Combining alprazolam with an opioid could affect your ability to safely perform activities that require alertness and coordination, such as driving. If your doctor prescribes alprazolam and an opioid, you should not drive until you know how the combination affects you and that it's safe to drive.

• If you're expecting or planning to be pregnant
• If you're considering breastfeeding or have done so in the past
• If you've experienced an adverse reaction to alprazolam, its components, or other benzodiazepine medications
• If you've got liver or kidney issues
• If you've got a history of depression, manic episodes, or bipolar disorder
• If you've struggled with alcohol misuse, drug addiction, or substance dependency
• If you've got respiratory problems, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or sleep apnea
• If you're 65 years or older

CYP3A inducers*

Important notice:

For more details on alprazolam's potential drawbacks, check out the "Alprazolam side effects" section above.

• carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol, Equetro, others)• phenytoin (Dilantin)• rifampin (Rimactane)

Help is available

In case you're in crisis, contemplating suicide or self-harm, seek help:

• Give a ring or text the 988 Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. Trained counselors are at your service 24/7 providing free and confidential assistance.
• Text "HOME" to the Crisis Text Line at 741741 to communicate with a volunteer crisis counselor 24/7 for free and confidential help.
• Not based in the USA? Look up a helpline in your country via Befrienders Worldwide.
• Dial 911 or your local emergency services number if you feel secure doing so.

If you're contacting on behalf of another person, stay with them until help arrives. If possible, remove any harmful substances or weapons.

digoxin (Lanoxin)

If you're not living in the same household, stay on the line with them until help arrives.

Alprazolam and alcohol

—

Avoid combining alprazolam with alcohol. Both substances slow down your central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Consuming them together can increase your chances of side effects, such as:

• sleepiness
• extreme drowsiness or unresponsiveness to physical/verbal stimuli
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• muscle weakness
• coordination or balance issues
• slowed reaction times
• speech impairment
• concentration difficulties
• memory problems

Co-consuming alprazolam and alcohol can also enhance your risks of alprazolam misuse,* overdose,† and, in rare circumstances, death. If you're anxious about avoiding alcohol with alprazolam, consult your doctor.

Alprazolam interactions

Alprazolam can interact with various medications and even specific supplements and foods. Different interactions can lead to different outcomes. Some interactions may affect how well a drug functions. Other interactions can amplify side effects or make them more severe. Drug-health-related interactions can also produce certain effects. For information about these interactions, see the "Alprazolam precautions" section below.

Alprazolam and other medications

Before taking alprazolam, consult with your doctor and pharmacist. Inform them about all prescribed, over-the-counter, and other drugs you take. Also, share details about any vitamins, herbs, and supplements you use. Sharing this info can help you avoid potential interactions.

Below is a table of medications that can interact with alprazolam. This table does not include all drugs that may interact with alprazolam.

Cause of interaction

Drug Classifications and Examples

| Classification | Medication Examples ||--------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| Opioids | - tramadol (Ultram, ConZip)
- codeine
- hydrocodone (Hysingla ER)
- oxycodone (Oxycontin)
- fentanyl (Fentora, Actiq, others)
- methadone (Methadose) || Seizure Medications | - gabapentin (Neurontin)
- topiramate (Topamax) || Antipsychotics | - haloperidol (Haldol)
- clozapine (Clozaril)
- risperidone (Risperdal) || Sleeping Pills | - zolpidem (Ambien, Ambien CR)
- zaleplon (Sonata)
- eszopiclone (Lunesta)
- daridorexant (Quviviq) || Sedating Antihistamines | - hydroxyzine (Vistaril)
- promethazine
- diphenhydramine (Benadryl) || Certain Antidepressants | - amitriptyline
- trazodone
- mirtazapine (Remeron) || CYP3A Inhibitors* | - clarithromycin
- ketoconazole
- itraconazole (Sporanox, Tolsura)
- cimetidine (Tagamet HB)
- erythromycin (Eryc, Ery-Tab, others)
- fluvoxamine (Luvox)
- nefazodone
- ritonavir (Norvir) || CYP3A Inducers* | - carbamazepine (Tegretol, Carbatrol, Equetro, others)
- phenytoin (Dilantin)
- rifampin (Rimactane) || Digoxin** (Lanoxin) | — |

Examples

Your medical professional can provide more information about the interactions between these medications and alprazolam. If you have questions about any drug interactions that may affect you, your doctor or pharmacist can address those as well.

Other Interactions

Additional types of interactions, such as those with herbs, supplements, and foods, may also occur with alprazolam.

| Cause of Interaction | Examples ||---------------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|| Herbs and Supplements | - St. John’s wort
- cannabis || Foods and Drinks | - grapefruit and grapefruit juice |

herbs and supplements

Your doctor can provide you with details about these interactions with alprazolam. If you have questions about other herbs, supplements, or foods to avoid while taking alprazolam, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Alprazolam and Pregnancy or Breastfeeding

• St. John’s wort• cannabis

If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, it's crucial to discuss alprazolam with your doctor.

Alprazolam and Pregnancy

The safety of alprazolam during pregnancy may vary depending on the pregnancy's stage.

When alprazolam was administered during early pregnancy in clinical trials*, researchers didn't observe an increased risk of pregnancy loss or congenital anomalies (birth defects).

foods and drinks

However, if alprazolam is used during late pregnancy,† the drug may cause side effects in the newborn after delivery. The baby may experience issues like:

• breathing problems
• feeding problems
• excessive sleepiness
• floppiness
• withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, tremor, irritability, and prolonged crying

• grapefruit and grapefruit juice

If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the potential risks and benefits of taking alprazolam.

Pregnancy Exposure Registry

If you and your doctor decide that alprazolam is necessary, you're encouraged to join the drug's pregnancy exposure registry. This registry collects information about the health of people who take psychiatric medications during pregnancy and the health of their babies. The information can help doctors and pregnant individuals make informed decisions about treatments during pregnancy.

Visit the registry website or call 866-961-2388 for further details. Your doctor can also provide you with more information.

Alprazolam and Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking alprazolam.

Alprazolam can pass into breast milk and may cause side effects in a breastfed infant. Potential side effects include:

• excessive sleepiness
• withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, sleeping problems, and prolonged crying

If you’re breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, speak with your doctor about alternative treatment options for your condition. If you and your doctor decide that you should take alprazolam, ask them about alternative feeding methods for your child.

Alprazolam and Birth Control

If you're sexually active and at risk of pregnancy, talk with your doctor about your birth control needs while taking alprazolam.

For more information on taking alprazolam during pregnancy, refer to the “Alprazolam and Pregnancy” section above.

Just like with all medications, the expense of alprazolam can fluctuate. The exact sum you'll pay is dependent on your insurance plan, your location, and the pharmacy you use.

You might be eligible for a 90-day supply of alprazolam, if your insurance approves it. This could reduce your pharmacy visits and lower the overall cost. If this interests you, consult with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider.

Your insurance company might ask for prior authorization before covering alprazolam. This means they need to communicate with your doctor about your prescription before they'll pay for the drug. If you're unsure about this, contact your insurance company.

Financial and insurance aid

Financial assistance to help pay for alprazolam might be accessible.

The Medicine Assistance Tool and NeedyMeds are two websites that offer resources that could potentially decrease the price you pay for alprazolam. They also provide tools to help you find affordable healthcare, as well as educational resources. Check out their websites for more information.

Mail-order pharmacies

Alprazolam may be available through a mail-order pharmacy. This service could help lower the drug's cost and allow you to get your medication without leaving home.

If your doctor recommends it, you might be able to receive a 90-day supply of alprazolam, reducing concerns about running out of the medication. If this interests you, consult with your doctor, pharmacist, or insurance provider. Some Medicare plans might help cover the cost of mail-order medications.

If you don't have insurance, ask your doctor or pharmacist about online pharmacy options.

How to use alprazolam

Use alprazolam as your doctor instructs.

Alprazolam immediate-release (IR) oral tablets are taken by mouth.

Doctors usually prescribe alprazolam for a short time while other treatments, such as antidepressants, start to work. An example of an antidepressant is sertraline (Zoloft).

When to use

Alprazolam is typically taken three times a day, such as in the morning, after lunch, and in the evening. Try to space your doses evenly. If your anxiety keeps you awake at night, your doctor may recommend taking your last alprazolam dose just before bed.

Take alprazolam at the same times each day. Taking the medication regularly helps keep a steady level of the drug in your body, improving its effectiveness.

To help ensure you don't miss a dose, use a medication reminder. This could include setting an alarm or using a timer. You could also download a reminder app on your phone.

Readable labels and containers

If your prescription label is hard to read, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Some pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code you can scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn't have these options, your doctor or pharmacist may be able to direct you to one that does.

If you have trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist for an easy-open container. They might also be able to recommend tools to make it simpler to open lids.

Taking alprazolam with food

You can take alprazolam with or without food. The time between taking the medication and food isn't important.

Can alprazolam be crushed, split, or chewed?

Some alprazolam IR tablets have a score line. If your tablet is scored, you can split it if necessary. However, alprazolam IR tablets aren't meant to be crushed or chewed. If you have trouble swallowing the tablet, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Alprazolam overdose

Taking more alprazolam than recommended can lead to serious side effects, and in rare cases, death. Don't take more alprazolam than your doctor prescribes. (For information on the recommended dosages of alprazolam, see the "Alprazolam dosage" section above.)

Overdose symptoms

Symptoms of an overdose can include:

• sleepiness
• confusion
• problems with coordination
• slowed reflexes
• not responding to physical or verbal stimulation
• coma

What to do in case of overdose

If you think you've taken too much of this drug, call your doctor. You can also call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. However, if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

Alprazolam dependence and withdrawal

Alprazolam has a boxed warning about the risks of dependence and withdrawal. A boxed warning is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Depending on use, a substance like alprazolam becomes essential for normal functioning, be it physically or mentally. Prolonged usage or high doses of alprazolam boost the chances of developing a dependence on it.

developers of addiction. Alprazolam comes with a warning against abuse and addiction (for more details, see the "Alprazolam Precautions" section above).

Withdrawal symptoms

Developing physical dependence on a substance means experiencing withdrawal symptoms if you abruptly stop using it. Withdrawal symptoms are unwanted effects that appear when the body becomes dependent on a substance and stops receiving it.

Suddenly ceasing alprazolam treatment may result in severe and potentially lethal withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures or suicidal thoughts. Other withdrawal symptoms may include:

• trouble focusing
• difficulty sleeping
• muscle cramps, rigidity, or tremors
• headache
• nausea and vomiting
• diarrhea
• irritability
• increased sensitivity to sound or light
• depression
• memory problems
• restlessness
• pins and needles sensations

Withdrawal symptoms may persist for weeks or even months. The likelihood and severity of withdrawal symptoms increase under certain circumstances, such as when high doses of alprazolam are prescribed or the drug is used for over 12 weeks.

PARTICULARLY, it's been reported that individuals taking more than 4 milligrams (mg) per day have a higher risk of withdrawal symptoms and more severe symptoms.

Preventing withdrawal symptoms

To prevent withdrawal symptoms, alprazolam treatment should be discontinued gradually. Abruptly stopping the medication is not advisable.

When it's mutually agreed that you should stop your treatment, your doctor will typically reduce your dosage gradually over several weeks or months. This process is known as a dose taper.

If you experience withdrawal symptoms during your dose taper, discuss it with your doctor. They may adjust your dosage and taper it more slowly. However, if you experience severe withdrawal symptoms, consult your doctor right away. If your symptoms seem life-threatening, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

Alprazolam expiration, storage, and disposal

When you obtain alprazolam from the pharmacy, your pharmacist will place an expiration date on the medication's label. This date usually falls one year after dispensing the medication.

The expiration date ensures the medication remains effective during this timeframe. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends avoiding the use of expired medications. If you have unused medication that has surpassed the expiration date, consult your pharmacist about its potential usage.

Storage

A medication's effectiveness can be influenced by various factors, including storage methods.

Store alprazolam tablets in a tightly sealed container at room temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C). Avoid storing this medication in damp or wet areas, such as bathrooms.

Disposal

If you no longer need alprazolam and have leftover medication, it's essential to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent accidental ingestion by children and pets and reduces environmental harm.

This guide provides helpful tips on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information on how to dispose of your medication.

Disclaimer:Medical News Today has made every effort to ensure all information is factually accurate, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not replace the expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. Always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The information provided regarding alprazolam is subject to change and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice or treatment. Acknowledgment of risks, additional precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects associated with alprazolam is not included in this information. The absence of this information does not imply that the drug or drug combination is safe, appropriate, or effective for all patients or specific uses.

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