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Xanax

(alprazolam)

In this factsheet:
• How does Xanax work? What will it do for me?
• How should I use Xanax?
• What form(s) does Xanax come in?
• Who should NOT take Xanax?
• What side effects are possible with Xanax?
• Are there any other precautions or warnings for Xanax?
• What other drugs could interact with Xanax?

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

How does Xanax work? What will it do for me?

Alprazolam belongs to the class of medicines called benzodiazepines. It is used to for the short-term symptomatic relief of excessive anxiety. It is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. Alprazolam works by slowing down the brain (central nervous system).

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed in these drug information articles. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Xanax?

The recommended dose of alprazolam for adults varies depending on its use. It ranges from 0.25 mg to 3 mg daily in divided doses for excessive anxiety, and from 0.5 mg once daily at bedtime to 10 mg daily in divided doses for panic attacks.

The dose is usually started low and increased if necessary, as prescribed by your doctor. It is important that the dose be individualized to your specific needs to avoid excessive sedation or motor impairment.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

Alprazolam may be habit-forming when taken for long periods of time. If you have been taking this medication regularly for a long period of time (i.e., more than one month), do not stop taking the medication without speaking with your doctor. A gradual reduction in dose is recommended when stopping this medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

It is important to take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store at room temperature in a dry place and keep it out of reach of children.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Xanax come in?

0.25 mg
Each white, single score tablet, embossed with "Upjohn 29" contains alprazolam 0.25 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, docusate sodium, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicon dioxide.

0.5 mg
Each peach, single score tablet, embossed "Upjohn 55" contains alprazolam 0.5 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, docusate sodium, FD&C Yellow No. 6, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicon dioxide.

1 mg
Each lavender, single score tablet, embossed "Upjohn 90" contains alprazolam 1 mg. Nonmedicinal ingredients: cornstarch, docusate sodium, erythrosin sodium, FD&C Blue No. 2, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and silicon dioxide.

Who should NOT take Xanax?

Alprazolam should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to alprazolam or to any of the ingredients of the medication
• is allergic to any other medications belonging to the benzodiazepine class
• has acute narrow-angle glaucoma (alprazolam may be used by people with open-angle glaucoma who are receiving appropriate treatment)
• has myasthenia gravis

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