Author: Charles Frank

Xanax: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Warnings

If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication. You’ll typically take Xanax two to three times per day. However, be sure to take Xanax exactly as your doctor prescribes it. They will determine the dose and frequency that works best for you. Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.

1. If you suddenly stop taking a drug that your body has become dependent on, you could experience side effects known as withdrawal symptoms.
2. This active drug is also available as a generic medication.
3. Xanax typically makes your pupils larger, while opioids make your pupils smaller.
4. Call emergency services if you have problems breathing or unusual sleepiness.
5. Prescriptions may be refilled only a limited number of times; ask your pharmacist if you have any questions.

(An active ingredient is what makes a drug work.) Xanax belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Data sources include Micromedex (updated 3 Mar 2024), Cerner Multum™ (updated 4 Feb 2024), ASHP (updated 12 Feb 2024) and others. An interaction between two medications does not always mean that you must stop taking one of the medications; however, sometimes it does. Speak to your doctor about how drug interactions should be managed.

Weight changes may not necessarily happen because of Xanax itself. This article provides several useful tips on medication disposal. You can also ask your pharmacist for information about how to dispose of your medication. How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where you store the medication.

Dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking the drug. For more information, see the “Xanax dependence and withdrawal” section above. Xanax has a boxed warning for the risk of dependence and withdrawal. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration. It alerts doctors and patients to side effects that may be dangerous.

Xanax and children

Avoid driving or hazardous activity until you know how this medicine will affect you. Dizziness or drowsiness can cause falls, accidents, or severe injuries. Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders and anxiety caused by depression.

Typically, it takes about four to five half-lives for a drug to leave your system entirely. If you’re concerned about dependence when using Xanax, talk with your medical professional. It’s possible to develop physical dependence with Xanax. Dependence means that your body gets used to a drug and needs the drug to feel normal. Xanax may cause serious side effects, but this isn’t common.

There aren’t any known safety issues with taking Xanax and Tylenol together. Xanax will stay in your system for about 55 hours after your last 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.

Response and effectiveness

Addiction means continuing to take a drug even if it’s causing you harm. Dependence happens when your body gets used to a drug and needs the drug to feel normal. Although Xanax and opioids work differently in your body, they can cause similar side effects.

It should melt quickly and be swallowed with saliva. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while taking this medication. When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.

Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it. Selling or giving away this medicine is against the law. Xanax can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. If you are experiencing any withdrawal symptoms, talk with your doctor right away.

What is the dosage of Xanax?

Do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. Swallow the extended-release tablets whole; do not chew, crush, or break them. Remove the orally disintegrating tablet from the bottle just before it is time for your dose.

What is Xanax?

However, these symptoms can also affect anyone who stops taking Xanax. Xanax may also sometimes be prescribed off-label for sleep problems. The medication works quickly, so it can help you fall asleep if you have trouble doing so. However, doctors prescribe Xanax only in certain circumstances because your sleep problems may come back when you stop taking the drug.

What’s the dosage of Xanax?

This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Alprazolam is also sometimes used to treat depression, fear of open spaces (agoraphobia), and premenstrual syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this medication for your condition.

To reduce the risk of dizzy and fainting spells, do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop. This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.