Xanax
What is Xanax?
Xanax and its generic equivalent alprazolam are part of a drug group known as benzodiazepines. This drug interacts with chemicals already in the brain to bring a better balance to issues of anxiety, panic and depression.
Xanax may be used for other purposes, but it is primary regarded as an anxiety reliever.
Important information about Xanax
Allergic reactions to any benzodiazepine-based drug will preclude you from being able to use Xanax. Birth defects are a possibility in children whose mother used Xanax while pregnant.
Your doctor will want to have a clear picture of your health prior to prescribing Xanax. Issues such as breathing problems such as asthma, kidney disease, liver disease, glaucoma, depression, drug or alcohol addictions and suicidal thoughts will be strongly considered by your physician prior to prescription.
When patients who use Xanax also consume alcohol they are likely to discover that the mixture of the prescribed drug with alcohol actually amplifies the effects of alcohol.
Xanax can be potentially habit forming and should be kept away from children as well as those who have a history of drug dependency.
What to avoid while taking Xanax
Beyond what is listed in the section above it should be noted that individuals using Xanax should refrain from the use of grapefruit in all forms. Some physicians may allow the use, but dangerous side effects featuring Xanax and grapefruit have been well documented.
Possible side effects of Xanax
Allergic reactions generally display as hives or facial swelling and often require medical intervention.
Additional side effects include…
- Anger
- Behaviors not considered typical of the patient
- Concentration deficits
- Decreased urination
- Depression
- Fainting
- Hallucinations
- Impotence
- Increased sweating
- Insomnia
- Jaundice
- Lack of visual focus
- Loss of inhibition
- Muscle weakness
- Seizures
- Speech impairments
- Thoughts of suicide
- Trembling
Other side effects may be evident. Consult your primary care physician for details.
What do I do if I overdose on Xanax?
Medical attention should be sought quickly in the case of overdose. Do not assume you will be able to control it or ‘sleep it off’.
Some of the symptoms of Xanax overdose include…
- Coma
- Confusion
- Extreme drowsiness
- Fainting
- Feeling light-headed
- Loss of balance or coordination
- Muscle weakness
Additional Warnings
There are several common prescriptions that may not be compatible with Xanax. There are also over the counter medicines that could prove troubling to effective anxiety management.
The following is a list of medications to avoid while treating with Xanax.
• Antibiotics including fluconazole (Diflucan), itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
• Antidepressants including fluvoxamine (Luvox), desipramine (Norpramin), or imipramine (Janimine, Tofranil)
• Birth control pills
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Diltiazem (Tiazac, Cartia, Cardizem)
• Isoniazid (IsonaRif, Rifamate)
• Propoxyphene (Darvon, Darvocet)
• Seizure medication
Where can I get more information?
The following links provide more information about Xanax
https://online.epocrates.com/u/10a1415/Xanax
http://www.xanax.com/
http://www.realmentalhealth.com/medications/xanax_patient.asp
You will also find information available through your health care provider and trusted pharmacist.
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