Half of the population these days suffers from anxiety and panic disorders. The most common medicine that doctors use to treat anxiety is Xanax. Known by the generic name Alprazolam, Xanax belongs to the family of benzodiazepines that act on the nerves of the brain. It produces a calming effect in the brain and thus relieves the person from anxiety symptoms. Its ability to enhance the effect of GABA in the brain makes it one of the most popular tranquilizers in the entire United States of America.
However, it is to be noted that Xanax is not an opioid. It is often mistaken as an opioid due to similar effects, which also results in its overdose. Xanax is a very effective medicine for mental health disorders if used properly and under the guidance of the doctor. If medicine is misused, it can lead to addiction and even death.
FDA supports two medical uses of Xanax. The first is for the management of anxiety disorders and second is for the cure of panic disorders. However, it is also used for several other clinical purposes, off label like
Doctors mainly use Xanax as an anti-anxiety medicine. Although benzodiazepines have been available in the market for a long time, about 50 years, it is still unclear about their exact functioning. They mainly work by slowing down the excitability in the brain cells. The drug binds the brain cells to the GABA receptors and this binding produces a calming effect in the brain. This in turn reduces the hyperactivity in the brain and controls the symptoms of anxiety and seizures.
FDA states that the dosage of Xanax should start from 0.25 mg and can go to 0.5 mg three times a day. The dose can be increased or decreased depending on the symptoms. The maximum daily dose of Xanax can reach up to 4mg a day.
According to the FDA, people suffering from panic disorders need a higher dosage of Xanax. The starting dose of Xanax for the people suffering from panic disorders is 0.5 mg three times a day. The dose of Xanax can be increased depending on the severity of symptoms. The dose can be increased every 3 to 4 days and a dose up to 10 mg can be given to the patients suffering from panic disorder.
Since people get addicted to Xanax, therefore FDA advises doctors to frequently evaluate doses to avoid any such situation.
The information given below tells the sizes and appearance of Xanax:
The major side effects of Xanax include sedative-hypnotic effects like:
Since Xanax has hypnotic effects, it should not be used while driving or any other activity that requires attention and alertness. Xanax should not be taken with other medicines that cause sedation. Be very aware while taking any other medicine with Xanax. Always consult your clinician before taking any decision. The side effects of Xanax are exaggerated with alcohol. Avoid alcohol in any case if your doctor has put you on Xanax for Sale your anxiety or panic disorder.
Other common side effects observed in people are:
The side effects of Xanax are short-lived. Once you are off the medicine, the side effects are reduced. However, always consult your health care provider in case you experience any serious side effects.