Anxiety disorders and panic attacks are very common psychiatric problems in the world today. The medicines that fall in the benzodiazepine group are generally used to treat anxiety. Xanax is the brand name for the drug Alprazolam. As the other drugs that fall in the benzodiazepine category like Klonopin, Xanax is also used as an anti-anxiety pill. It is a Central Nervous system depressant which acts on the brain and nerve endings to produce calmness in the mind as well as in the body. Alprazolam enhances the performance of GABA receptors in our body to gives us the feeling of relaxation. Xanax should be used only as directed by the physician.
Xanax should always be used as the doctor has prescribed. It can be consumed with food or without it. The dosage must be taken as per suggestion of the physician and should not be increased without consultation. If you witness the following symptoms arising out of the use of xanax, then immediately contact your physician:
Medicinal interaction may change the course of action of a medicine. Consuming any medicine that makes you feel sleepy is recommended to avoid, as it may worsen Xanax side effects. It is suggested to consult the doctor before consuming any sedative, sleeping pill, opiate analgesics, muscle relaxants etc. Also the physician must be informed about the drug usage of the patient before getting benzodiazepine drug prescribed. When on xanax dosage anti-depressants, anti-fungal medicines are not suggested to consume as it may cause in the removal of xanax from the system resulting in the inefficacy of the medicine. All labels of the medicines are to be checked to see whether it causes drowsiness. Pharmacists can be consulted on this context and also cigarette smoking as well as the drinking habits should be curbed as it may produce fatal interactions.
Dealing with side effects of xanax?
The most effective way to minimize the side effects of Xanax is by taking it as prescribed by the doctor. Xanax is a prescription drug which can be dangerous when had in excess.
Xanax can react with numerous drugs therefore, before taking this medication the doctor must be informed about the patient’s complete medical history, as certain medical conditions increase the risk of side effects from it.
Drinking alcohol should be avoided during the medication because their combination can boost the risk of side effects. In order to lessen the chance of light-headedness and dizziness, it is advisable to move slowly when sitting or getting up from a lying position. The patient must contact the doctor immediately, if any of these side effects persists or gets severe. The doctors are always advised to go through the medical history of patients before prescribing the medicine.