Author: James Anderson

4 Ways to Use Alprazolam

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer. If you take more Xanax than your doctor prescribes, you may develop serious side effects. The manufacturer reports that overdose is more likely when Xanax is combined with alcohol or other drugs. You’ll typically take Xanax two to three times per day.

1. Do not remove the tablets from the bottle until you are ready to take it.
2. Before you take Xanax, be sure to tell your medical professional about any other drugs you take.
3. Xanax and Xanax XR come in several different shapes and colors.
4. These side effects can be dangerous if they occur while you’re driving.
5. Read below for information about typical (“normal”) doses of Xanax.

They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs. Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage of Xanax and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you. Instead of increasing your dose to reach an average dosage, they’ll prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect. Another form of Xanax is available, which is called Xanax XR.

What does it feel like when you take Xanax?

This could happen if you have severe side effects or if you need to take another medication that interacts with Xanax. If you stop taking Xanax, you will typically follow a slow taper schedule (a gradual decrease). Although Xanax is sometimes prescribed off-label as a treatment for insomnia, there is not an FDA-approved dose for this condition.

Keep in mind that weight changes are a common symptom of anxiety, which Xanax is used to treat. It’s possible you may gain or lose weight while you’re taking Xanax because your anxiety is easing. Weight changes may not necessarily happen because of Xanax itself. We’ll explain more about GAD, panic disorder, and how Xanax helps treat them in the “What do you use Xanax for? Women should inform their care team if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant.

Frequently asked questions

Xanax works by increasing the level of a chemical in your brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid. The typical starting dosage of Xanax for panic disorder is 0.5 mg three times per day. Mild side effects of many drugs tend to fade in a couple of days or a few weeks.

This means that they strongly activate the reward center of your brain and can produce feelings of pleasure. Not everyone who has a prescription for Xanax develops an addiction. When you carefully follow your prescription instructions for the medication, the chance of developing a substance use disorder is low. Xanax is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep this medicine in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse.

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval. Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol).

Selling or giving away this Xanax may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs. Xanax has a boxed warning for the risk of withdrawal and dependence.

Alprazolam (Xanax®) is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications. While this medication can treat many conditions, it’s not without risks. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns or questions you have about alprazolam. This list may not describe all possible interactions.

Examples of opioids include oxycodone (Oxycontin, Roxicodone) and morphine (Kadian, MS Contin). Patients over 65 years of age may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose. Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders and anxiety caused by depression. Make your tax-deductible gift and be a part of the cutting-edge research and care that’s changing medicine. You’ll soon start receiving the latest Mayo Clinic health information you requested in your inbox. If you are using the oral liquid, measure the dose with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

What’s the dosage of Xanax for children?

This includes prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Your doctor may increase your daily dosage slowly, depending on how your body responds to the drug. They may adjust your dose every 3 to 4 days until you’re taking the dose that’s right for you. Xanax prescribing information reports a maximum daily dosage of 4 mg, split into three doses. Your doctor will likely prescribe a dosage taper schedule to help you avoid withdrawal reactions. Your daily dose will likely be decreased by 0.5 mg in 3-day (or longer) intervals.

You’ll likely feel the effects of Xanax for several hours after each dose. If you have symptoms of low blood pressure while taking Xanax, talk with your medical professional. They may suggest that you check your blood pressure periodically with a home monitor.