Xanax or alprazolam is a medicine that is used for treating depression, anxiety, and panic disorders. Are you also suffering from constant anxiety and looking for medications? Or the doctor has prescribed it, and you are trying to educate yourself about it?
Xanax is a benzodiazepine that enhances the activity of neurotransmitters and helps in the treatment of anxiety and panic attacks. It directly affects your central nervous system, so it should be used as per the prescription.
Once you have finished reading this article, you will know everything related to Xanax. From uses to side effects and precautions, we have shared everything below. Keep reading as we uncover its details.
Xanax Uses
Xanax is primarily used for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, which are caused by depression. It helps to relieve stress and produce a calming effect on your mind. It is also used as an aid for sleeping, but beware, it’s not medically approved for this purpose. It is susceptible, and you should use it very carefully. Let’s check out the details of Xanax use.
Anxiety Disorders
Xanax is widely used for the treatment of anxiety disorders. It reduces anxiety by getting attached to a brain receptor named GABA-A (gamma-aminobutyric acid-A), relieving stress. It affects you very quickly and helps you relax.
Panic Disorders
Xanax is also used to cure panic disorders. It affects quickly and reduces your brain activity, which helps you relax and reduce panic attack symptoms.
Dosage Information
It is the usual dose used by adults for immediate-release tablets. You may need more or less, depending on your condition. It can also cause potential side effects, so consult your doctor before using it.
For Anxiety
The average dose of Xanax recommended for adults is 0.25 to 0.5 mg. It should be taken orally three times a day. You can intake a maximum of 4 mg of Xanax;p per day.
For Panic Disorder
Xanax dosage for panic disorders is higher than for anxiety disorders. 0.5 mg three times a day is the recommended dosage for adults with panic disorders. The maximum usage allowed is 10 Mg.
For extended-release;
| Type of Dosage | Allowed Per Day |
| Initial Dosage | 0.5 to 1 Mg |
| Maintenance Dosage | 3 to 6 Mg |
| Maximum Dosage | 10 Mg |
Missed Dose
If you forget or miss a dose of Xanax, then take it if you remember quickly. If you remember late or near the time of the next dose, then leave it. Taking double doses to make up for missed doses can result in an overdose.
Overdose
Overdose of Xanax can cause several health concerns. Constipation, drowsiness, headache, and feeling lightheaded are the common symptoms of Xanax overdose. It can even cause trouble breathing and stroke, which can prove to be fatal.
Side Effects Of Xanax
Xanax can cause a lot of side effects. Some of these effects are mild, but some can seriously impact your health. Remember to look at these potential concerns if taking it without any prescription.
Mild Side Effects
Here are the mild side effects of Xanax. These are not very serious and can usually be treated within a few hours or days.
- Dizziness
- Allergic reaction
- Coordination trouble
- Problem while concentrating
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Reduced sex drive
- Reduced appetite
- Lightheadedness
- Memory loss
- Constipation
- Low blood pressure
- Weight loss
- Slurred speech
Severe Side Effects
Xanax can also cause some severe side effects. Seek immediate medical help when you face any such effects of Xanax.
- Slow response time
- Mood changes
- Hallucinations
- High level of Enzymes
- Sleepiness
- Fatal alongside opioids
- Suicidal thoughts
- Jaundice
- Dependency
- Severe allergic reactions
- Vomiting
Necessary Precautions
Before you start using Xanax, you must be well aware of all the necessary precautions because Xanax can cause serious health problems under certain conditions. Read these instructions carefully, understand them, discuss them with your doctor, and then you should start using them.
- Antifungal medicines: Avoid using Xanax if you are using antifungal drugs. It can interact with these medications and cause problems for you. Ketoconazole and itraconazole are famous examples of these medications.
- You are allergic; Xanax does contain some allergic elements, and it might cause allergic reactions if you are sensitive to its ingredients. So take a calm look at all its ingredients before use.
- Substance abuse: Don’t use Xanax if you are or have been a subject of substance abuse. It can be very addictive, and you may also build dependence.
- Breathing problems: Xanax can also be problematic for people with breathing problems or Asthma. Consult your doctor if you are also suffering from any such diseases.
- Mental health problems: It also creates problems for people with different psychological issues. Discuss with your doctor if you have ever had depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, or sudden mood changes.
- Pregnancy: Pregnant ladies should avoid Xanax use. It can have harmful impacts on babies’ health. It could even cause withdrawal symptoms in your baby after birth. So remember to inform your doctor about any such situation before taking Xanax.
- Health conditions: Some other health conditions are sensitive to Xanax usage. Kidney and liver problems and sleep disorders are some of these acute conditions.
These were all the necessary precautions you must keep in mind before Xanax use. Older and unhealthy people are more unsafe from side effects of Xanax and hence should be more careful with precautions.
Final Words
Xanax is an effective medication for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. Beware, it’s a sensitive medication that directly impacts your mind, so be careful with it. Use it according to the prescription of the doctor because it can have hazardous impacts on your health.
Remember to read all the precautions carefully before using it for your safety. Keep it out of the reach of children, and don’t share it with anyone the doctor has not prescribed.