Xanax

What is Xanax?

Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that alprazolam works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders and anxiety associated with depression.

Xanax is also used to treat panic disorders, with or without a fear of places and situations that might cause panic, helplessness, or embarrassment, including agoraphobia.

It is important to obtain Xanax through a licensed healthcare provider and pharmacy. Medicines obtained through unauthorized or unsafe sources may not meet applicable safety standards and could contain incorrect, contaminated, or dangerous ingredients.

Warnings

Xanax can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol. Combining medicines or substances that affect the central nervous system can increase the risk of serious and potentially life-threatening effects.

MISUSE OF XANAX CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.

Do not stop using Xanax without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Xanax and experience symptoms such as unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Xanax is a federally controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep this medicine in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse.

Selling or giving away Xanax may harm others and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines, or street drugs.

Before Taking This Medicine

Before taking Xanax, tell your healthcare provider about your medical history, current medications, and any substances you use. This information can help your healthcare provider assess potential risks and interactions.

You should not take Xanax if:

• you also take antifungal medicine such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; or
• you have a history of an allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine, including alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam, Ativan, Valium, Versed, Klonopin, and others.

Tell Your Doctor If You Have:

• breathing problems;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• kidney or liver disease.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use Xanax during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

You should not breastfeed while taking Xanax unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby.

Xanax is not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How Should I Take Xanax?

Take Xanax exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets provided with your medicine.

Never use Xanax in larger amounts or for longer than prescribed. Taking more than directed can increase the risk of dependence, overdose, breathing problems, and other serious effects.

Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine. Changes in how you feel while taking Xanax should be discussed with your healthcare provider rather than managed by changing the dose yourself.

Do not stop treatment suddenly unless your doctor tells you to do so. Withdrawal symptoms can be serious after long-term use, and your healthcare provider may recommend a gradual reduction when it is time to stop treatment.

Safe Use and Storage

Keep Xanax in its original packaging and store it in a secure place. Do not share your medication with another person, even if they have symptoms that appear similar to yours.

Xanax is prescribed according to an individual’s medical needs. Taking medication that was not prescribed for you can result in serious harm.

Important Medical Advice

For questions about whether Xanax is appropriate for you, how it should be taken, possible side effects, drug interactions, or withdrawal symptoms, speak directly with a qualified healthcare professional.

Always follow the prescribing information supplied with your medication and seek urgent medical attention for serious or unexpected symptoms.