Brand Name: Alprazolam.
Generic Name: Xanax.
This medication description is not meant for treatment prescription without the intervention of a specialist
Common Uses
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine. It works by slowing down the movement of chemicals in the brain. This results in a reduction in nervous tension (anxiety). Some doctors prescribe Alprazolam to treat alcohol withdrawal, fear of open spaces and strangers, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, and premenstrual syndrome.

How to Take
Before start taking any new medicine please consult with a doctor. The usual starting dose of regular alprazolam is 0.5 mg 3 times a day. This dose can be increased by 1 mg a day after 3 or 4 days. You may be given a dose from 1 up to a total of 10 mg, according to your needs. The typical dose is 5 mg a day. Safety and effectiveness have not been established in children under 18 years of age.

Warning and Precautions
Alprazolam may cause you to become drowsy or less alert; therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended. If you are being treated for panic disorder, you may need to take a higher dose of Alprazolam than for anxiety alone. High doses more than 4 mg a day of Alprazolam taken for long intervals may cause emotional and physical dependence. As with all anti-anxiety medication, there is a small chance that Alprazolam could encourage suicidal thoughts or episodes of euphoria known as mania. If you notice any new or unusual symptoms after starting Alprazolam, call your doctor immediately.

Important
Do not take Alprazolam if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of respiratory problems and muscular weakness in your baby. Infants may also experience withdrawal symptoms. Alprazolam may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Alprazolam is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with Alprazolam is finished.

Missed Dose
If your doctor gave you strict instructions not to miss dose and if you missed one take the missed dose as soon as you remembered. If it is time for your next dose, skip it and continue taking you medicine regularly. Do not double the medicine. It can cause severe side effects.

Overdose
Almost any medicine taking in excess doses without consultation with your doctor can cause an overdose. Symptoms of overdose may include: confusion, coma, impaired coordination, sleepiness, slowed reaction time.If you suspect an overdose contact your emergency room immediately.

Storage
Alprazolam should be stored at room temperature in a container it comes in. Protect from heat, sun light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep away from pets and children.

Possible Side Effects
Any of the medicine can cause side effects. If the side effects occur seek medical attention or consult with your doctor for more information. Anyway such common side effects may bother you:  decreased libido, drowsiness, fatigue, impaired coordination, memory impairment, speech difficulties, weight changes. Seek medical attention if any of these side effects occur: chest pain, allergic reactions, difficulty swallowing or breathing, fainting, irregular or slow heartbeat, shortness of breath, unusual stomach pain.

More Information
The information given above is a summary. Your doctor, pharmacies or health care provider can provide more information about Alprazolam. Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Do not store medication with end term of storage.