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How to Take Alprazolam

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(2 Ratings)

Alprazolam is the generic name for the prescription drug Xanax. It is used for the treatment of panic disorders and anxiety. Alprazolam slows chemical movement in the brain to ease the symptoms of anxiety, panic disorder and nervous tension. It can also be used to treat other conditions if a doctor feels it would be appropriate.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Prescription
  • Alprazolam
  1. Step 1

    Follow the exact dosing instructions given to you by your doctor. The prescribed dose of Alprazolam will vary from person to person depending on the severity of the condition as well as physical characteristics such as weight, age and gender. Alprazolam is normally taken as needed at the onset of anxiety or panic-disorder symptoms.

  2. Step 2

    Take Alprazolam with a full glass of water. If your stomach becomes upset, take Alprazolam with food to reduce the irritation.

  3. Step 3

    Take Alprazolam disintegrating tablets by first removing a tablet with dry hands. Place the tablet on the tip of the tongue and let it dissolve. Do not drink any liquid until the tablet has dissolved and you have swallowed several times.

  4. Step 4

    Store Alprazolam at room temperature and keep it away from extreme heat and moisture. Keep Alprazolam out of the reach of children.

  5. Step 5

    If you miss a dose of Alprazolam, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose. Never take a double-dose of Alprazolam.

Tips & Warnings
  • Inform your doctor if you have breathing problems, kidney disease, liver disease, glaucoma or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts or addiction.
  • Alprazolam can be addictive. Alprazolam should only be used by the prescription holder and only as prescribed by a doctor.
  • Keep track of how many pills remain in your bottle after each use. Alprazolam is a drug that is abused frequently, and you should be aware if someone in your home begins abusing it.
  • Less-serious side effects of Alprazolam include drowsiness, forgetfulness, dizziness, irritability, poor concentration, insomnia, muscle weakness, slurred speech, poor balance, poor coordination, blurred vision, change in appetite and weight, nausea, constipation, vomiting, dry mouth, sweating and decrease in sex drive.
  • Do not take Alprazolam if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Alprazolam has been known to cause birth defects in unborn babies.
  • Do not take Alprazolam if you are taking or have recently taken intraconazole, ketoconazole or if you are allergic to Alprazolam, chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, diazepam, lorazepam or oxazepam.
  • Do not drink alcohol while taking Alprazolam. Alprazolam can intensify the effects of alcohol.
  • Do not stop taking Alprazolam suddenly if you have been taking it for a long period of time, or you could suffer from withdrawal symptoms and seizures.
  • Do not eat or drink grapefruit products while taking Alprazolam. Grapefruit products can cause serious side effects.
  • Contact a doctor immediately if you begin to have serious side effects from the use of Alprazolam. Serious side effects include an allergic reaction (hives, breathing trouble and swelling in the face, lips, tongue and throat), decreased fear of danger, risk-taking behavior, increased depression, thoughts of suicide, hallucinations, light-headedness, fainting, seizures, hyperactivity, hostility, decreased urination, jaundice, tremors and muscle twitches.
  • Do not take Alprazolam without first consulting with your doctor if you have taken or are currently taking birth-control pills, cimetidine, diltiazem, isoniazid, Propoxyphene, seizure medicine, antibiotics or other antidepressants. This is not a complete list and you should inform your doctor of all medications (prescription and non-prescription), herbal supplements and vitamins that you are taking.

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eHow Article: How to Take Alprazolam

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