Alprazolam Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (al-PRA-zoe-lam)
Alprazolam Oral Uses
This medication is used to treat certain anxiety and panic disorders. Alprazolam belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It acts on the brain and nerves to produce a calming effect and helps relieve panic and anxiety symptoms.
How To Use Alprazolam Oral
Take this medication by mouth usually two to three times daily, or as directed by your doctor.
Dosage and length of treatment is based on your medical condition, age, and response to therapy. Take the exact dose as prescribed by your doctor. Your dose may be gradually increased until the drug starts working well. The manufacturer does not recommend taking more than 4 milligrams a day unless you are being treated for panic disorder. Follow your doctor's instructions closely to reduce the risk of side effects. Do not increase or decrease your dose, or suddenly stop taking your medication, without consulting your doctor first.
It is best not to take this medication with a high-fat meal because absorption may be slowed.
Make sure your hands are dry before you are ready to take this medication. Place the tablet on top of your tongue immediately after removing it from the bottle. The tablet will dissolve in your mouth. Although it is not necessary to take this medication with any liquid, you may take it with water.
If your dose is only half a tablet, be sure to throw away the unused portion of the tablet. Do not save it for future use because it may become inactive.
This medication may cause dependence, especially if it has been used regularly for an extended period of time or if it has been used in high doses (e.g., more than 4 milligrams a day). In such cases, if you suddenly stop this drug, withdrawal reactions such as abdominal or muscle cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, sweating, tremors, insomnia, and seizures may occur. Report any such reactions to your doctor immediately. When stopping extended, regular treatment with this drug, the dosage should be gradually reduced as directed to help prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
