If you are looking for a comprehensive guide to Xanax (Alprazolam), you have come to the right place. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about this powerful benzodiazepine medication. We will cover topics such as how Xanax works, the potential side effects of the drug, and how to safely take Xanax. So, whether you are considering taking Xanax for the first time or you are already taking it and want more information, this blog post has got you covered!
Contents
What Is Xanax?
Xanax (Alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine medication that typically treats anxiety and panic disorders. The drug works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which increases the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This further results in a calming effect on the body and mind.
Intake
Xanax can be taken orally in the form of a pill. It can also be injected intravenously. Swallow the extend-release tablet with a full glass of water. Do not break, crush, or chew it.
Dosage
Extended-release tablets:
- Initial dose: 0.5 to 1 mg orally once a day
- Maintenance dose: 3 to 6 mg orally per day, preferably in the morning
- Maximum dose: 10 mg/day
Immediate-release tablets:
- Initial dose: 0.25 to 0.5 mg orally
- Maintenance: administered 3 times a day
- Maximum dose: 4 mg/day
Xanax For Panic Attacks
Xanax (Alprazolam) works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which increases the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This results in a calming effect on the body and mind.
If you suffer from panic attacks, Xanax can be an effective treatment option. The drug works by helping to regulate the neurotransmitters in your brain that are responsible for anxiety as well as panic. By doing so, Xanax can help to reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks. This drug acts on specific receptors in the brain to slow down excessive brain activity and also reduce feelings of stress and panic.
Xanax is a short-acting drug, which means that its effects only last for a few hours. For this reason, it is often used on an as-needed basis. However, some people may need to take Xanax daily to manage their anxiety or panic disorder.
In addition to treating anxiety and panic disorders, Xanax also treats other conditions such as insomnia, depression, muscle spasms, and seizures.
Side Effects
Like every other psychiatric medicine, Xanax also comes with a few common side effects such as:
- drowsiness
- increase in saliva production
- changes in sex drive
Some serious side effects may include:
- suicidal thoughts
- trouble speaking
- memory issues
- loss of coordination
- yellowing skin/eyes
- seizures
- rash/swelling
- trouble in breathing
Although having serious side effects from this medication is rare, report these to your healthcare provider for immediate medical assistance.
General Warnings
Although your doctor will inform you about the precautionary measures in the context of your medical background, symptoms, and reaction to the medication, it is important to know some general warnings before considering this medication for treatment.
- Inform your doctor about any family history of lung/liver/kidney problems, glaucoma (We provide effective glaucoma surgery), as well as substance addiction.
- Avoid the consumption of alcohol/cannabis during this medication.
- Pregnant or lactating women should avoid this drug.
- Avoid doing activities that require alertness.
- Time gaps of intake should be distributed as evenly as possible throughout the waking hours
- Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer after stopping this medicine suddenly. Keep consulting with your doctor for managing these symptoms.
- Older adults, or people aged 65 years and above, may be more sensitive to the effects of benzodiazepines.
- People allergic to chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and oxazepam (Serax) should avoid intaking Xanax.
- Xanax can be habit-forming and there is a further risk of developing tolerance to the drug if it is taken for long periods.
Alternatives
In case you are looking for alternatives for Xanax due to allergies or other natural methods for not intaking medicines, some things you can consider include:
- Medications like Diphenhydramine, Cannabidiol, and probiotics
- Green tea
- CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy)
Conclusion
Xanax is a prescription medication that is generally only prescribed to people who suffer from anxiety or panic disorders. The drug works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain, which increases the effects of the neurotransmitter GABA. This results in a calming effect on the body and mind. Xanax is a short-acting drug, which means that its effects only last for a few hours.
A Word From Therapy Mantra
Your mental health — Your psychological, emotional, and social well-being — has an impact on every aspect of your life. Positive mental health essentially allows you to effectively deal with life’s everyday challenges.
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