Detailed Drug Information:

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Alprazolam is a member of the benzodiazepine family.Benzodiazepines are sedatives that cause dose-related depression of thecentral nervous system. They are useful in treating anxiety, insomnia, andmuscle spasms.

PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 0.25mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg.

STORAGE: Alprazolam should be stored at room temperature in atightly closed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Alprazolam is used for the treatment of anxietydisorders and panic attacks. Anxiety disorders are characterized byunrealistic worry and apprehension, causing symptoms of restlessness,aches, trembling, shortness of breath, smothering sensation, palpitations,sweating, cold clammy hands, lightheadedness, flushing, exaggeratedstartle responses, problems concentrating, and insomnia. Panic attacksoccur either unexpectedly or in certain situations (i.e. driving), and canrequire higher dosages of alprazolam.

DOSING: Alprazolam may be taken with or without food. Alprazolamis metabolized by the liver and excreted mainly by the kidney. Dosages ofalprazolam may need to be lowered in patients with abnormal kidneyfunction.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Alprazolam should not be taken withketoconazole or itraconazole. Alcohol should be avoided by patients takingbenzodiazepines. Alprazolam can lead to addiction (dependency), especiallyat high dosages over prolonged periods of time. Because of alprazolam'saddicting potential, dosages should never be increased by the patient. Inpatients addicted to alprazolam, abrupt discontinuation of the medicinecan lead to symptoms of withdrawal (insomnia, headaches, nausea, vomiting,light headedness, sweating , anxiety, and fatigue). Seizures can occur inmore severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently, patients on alprazolam forextended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under adoctor's supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication.

PREGNANCY: Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam, can cause fetalproblems and should not be used in pregnancy or in nursing mothers.

NURSING MOTHERS: Benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam, can causefetal problems and should not be used in pregnancy or in nursing mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: The most frequent side effects of alprazolam takenat lower doses are drowsiness or lightheadedness, which probably reflectthe action of the drug. Side effects of higher dosages (those used forpanic attacks) include fatigue, memory problems, speech problems,constipation, and changes in appetite with resultant changes in weight.