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Alprazolam - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Alprazolam

Generic Name : Alprazolam
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Alprazolam are provided here.

Pronunciation : (al pray zoe iam)

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Alprazolam, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y47.5 Therapeutic Classification : Anxiolytics, Sedatives And Hypnotics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Alprazolam

India :

International :


Xanax, Xanax XR, Niravam

Why is Alprazolam Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a benzodiazepine, prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. It reduces the nervous tension by slowing down the movement of chemicals in the brain

When should Alprazolam not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with increased eye pressure, who are taking itraconazole or ketoconazole and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Alprazolam?

The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg, 3 times daily using immediate release tablets.
The dose may be increased every 3-4 days to a maximum dose of 4 mg daily.
The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg, 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily. The effective dose for preventing panic attacks may be as high as 6 mg daily.

How should Alprazolam be taken?

Alprazolam comes as a tablet to be taken orally, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Alprazolam?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of asthma or other respiratory diseases, kidney or liver impairment, depression, suicidal thoughts, alcohol addiction, increased eye pressure, who are taking other medications, any allergy, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

• It may decrease alertness and coordination. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

• Avoid grape fruit or grape fruit juice consumption while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Alprazolam?

Central Nervous System - Drowsiness, lightheadedness, depression, headache, confusion, sleeplessness, nervousness, fainting, dizziness and tiredness.
Gastrointestinal - Dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, nausea/vomiting and increased salivation.
Heart - Fast heart rate and low blood pressure.
Eye - Blurred vision.
Musculoskeletal - Rigidity and tremor.
Skin - Skin inflammation and allergy.
Miscellaneous - Nose congestion and weight gain/loss.

What are the other precautions for Alprazolam?

Avoid abrupt withdrawal of this medication.
Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Alprazolam?

Store it at room temperature and in an airtight container. Keep away from light and children.

Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
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