Table of Contents
Key Points
- XANAX® (alprazolam), is the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine for the treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and other panic disorders
- It works with the GABA-A receptors in our brain and spinal cord to calm our central nervous systems.
- Common side effects of XANAX® may include the inability to concentrate, poor coordination, gastrointestinal issues, stuffy nose, and swelling of hands or feet.
- XANAX® can cause a dependency, and its abuse is classified as a sedative use disorder under the DSM-5.
- XANAX® should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women.
- Mixing XANAX® with opiates, alcohol, cough and cold medications and some prescriptions could lead to health emergencies and/or death.
What Is XANAX®?
XANAX® is a medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of generalized anxiety and panic disorders. As a member of the benzodiazepine class of medication, XANAX® works on the central nervous system to calm and relax the body and brain. It is also known by the generic name Alprazolam.
What Does XANAX® Do?
XANAX® works directly on the GABA-A receptors found in our central nervous system to reduce restlessness, hypervigilance, nervousness, derealization, and other symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. It may also be prescribed for insomnia, premenstrual syndrome, and depression. [1]
How Should I Take XANAX®?
XANAX® may be prescribed in two forms: XANAX® (alprazolam) immediate-release tablets and XANAX® XR CIV (alprazolam) extended-release tablets. XANAX® provides fast relief, whereas XANAX® XR will continue to work for up to 5 to 11 hours.
XANAX® can be taken with or without food but should not be taken with alcohol, opiates, some cough and cold medications, and some prescriptions. Let your doctor know if you become pregnant while taking XANAX®. It’s not advisable to stop taking this medication without consulting your medical team.
Common XANAX® Dosages
| Use | Adult | Geriatric |
| Anxiety Disorders |
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| Panic Disorders |
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What Are The Benefits and Side Effects of XANAX®?
XANAX®, also sold as alprazolam, works by latching onto the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors[2] in our brains and spinal cords in order to calm our central nervous system, relax our muscles, and slow our thoughts. This makes it effective in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder[3], panic disorder, and other related disorders.
XANAX® Side Effects
When taken as prescribed, side effects of XANAX® are typically mild and manageable and will resolve with time. However, when taken improperly, in excessive doses, or without a prescription, XANAX® can cause serious or even potentially life-threatening adverse reactions. Speak to your doctor about any side effects you may be experiencing.
Common Side Effects of XANAX®
- Common side effects of XANAX® include:
- Drowsiness and lethargy
- Dizziness, poor balance and poor coordination
- Sleep problems, including insomnia
- Memory problems, trouble concentrating, and/or decreased mental alertness
- Slurred speech
- Diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, nausea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms
- Appetite and/or weight change
- Swelling of hands or feet
- Muscle weakness
- Stuffy nose
- Hypomania
- Worsening depression
- Loss of interest in sex
Serious Side Effects of XANAX®
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any of these side effects after taking XANAX®:
- Appearing ‘drunk’ without having had anything to drink
- Increased salivation
- Joint pain
- Light-headedness
- Unusual talkativeness
- Irritability
- Headaches
- Dry mouth
- Extreme drowsiness
- Difficulty passing urine
- Difficulty concentrating
- Slow heartbeat
- Fainting
- Coma
XANAX® and Other Drugs
When mixed with alcohol, opiates, cannabis, codeine, muscle relaxants, and cough medications, XANAX® can lead to decreased respiration and heart rate and may result in overdose or death.
Other medications, including azole antifungals, certain antidepressants, protease inhibitors, macrolide antibiotics, rifamycins, St. John’s wort, and drugs used to treat seizures, affect our body’s ability to process and remove XANAX®.
Discuss any other medications you may be taking with your doctor or pharmacist prior to beginning your XANAX® prescription.
Pregnancy and XANAX®
Taking XANAX® during pregnancy is not recommended. Studies demonstrate that using this medication during pregnancy can result in low birth weight, spontaneous abortion, and withdrawal symptoms in newborns.[4] If you’re pregnant and taking XANAX®, visit your doctor before stopping the medication.
Breastfeeding and XANAX®
XANAX® can transfer via breast milk, so breastfeeding while taking this medication is not recommended. Infants who are exposed to breast milk containing XANAX® are at an increased risk of sedation and withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor can recommend alternative medications with less risk for this period of time.
Can XANAX® Lead to Substance Abuse?
XANAX® can lead to substance dependence and abuse due to both its calming and relaxing properties, along with its effect on the neurotransmitter dopamine, commonly associated with pleasure. Tolerance to XANAX builds up over time, leading to an increasing need for larger dosages to get the same effects.
XANAX® dependence is classified as a sedative use disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders: 5th Edition.
Signs of XANAX® Substance Abuse
Dependency and abuse of XANAX® (alprazolam) will look different depending on the individual. Some common signs of XANAX® addiction include:
- Spending a significant amount of time acquiring, taking, and recovering from XANAX®
- Continuing to take XANAX® even after it causes problems at work, home, school, and with family and friends
- Craving XANAX®
- The inability to stop taking XANAX® despite the personal desire to stop doing so
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after stopping the use of XANAX®, or if the familiar dose is reduced
Recovering from XANAX® Abuse
Managing the withdrawal symptoms of XANAX® requires medical supervision and should never be undertaken without support. Recovering from XANAX® dependency and abuse involves more than just physical recovery. Treatment may include inpatient programs, day programs, one-on-one counseling, and family therapy.
Recovery is possible. Speak to your doctor or a recovery specialist to get started.
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