The Use of Xanax in Treating Anxiety Disorders
Xanax (Generic name Alprazolam) is a very popular tranquilizer, and has been recently approved to treat several severe anxiety (panic) disorders. Xanax belongs to the Benzodiazepine group of medications. Like all benzodiazepines, Xanax can be used as a substitute to barbiturates in treating anxiety disorders.
How it works
Xanax works on the brain, directly. It improves the effect of the chemical receptors (GABA) that helps in calming the brain. GABA is a chemical that can help to reduce the pace of certain signals from the brain. So, in the presence of Xanax, GABA becomes more effective in soothing the brain cells. Thus it succeeds as a tranquilizer and depressant.
Xanax is generally available in the form of tablets, and can be taken twice a day, or thrice. There are no restrictions on food intake while administering Xanax. For best results, Xanax is to be taken as per prescription. Variances from prescriptions, especially in terms of higher doses may cause serious consequences. The dosage is decided by the medical practitioner based on the medical condition, age of the patient, and other medications of the patient.
Side Effects
Xanax interacts with alcohol and increases its effects. It may cause minor side effects in most patients, and most of these do not require treatment. Drowsiness, tiredness and lack of coordination are the common side effects of Xanax. In some, Xanax may act in a way opposite to how it is intended to be. It might cause irritability, agitation and disturbance. In this case, the doctors ought to be consulted to get the dosage adjusted. Some patients may also experience small sexual problems like erectile dysfunction and orgasm problems. Xanax might cause addiction and the dosage should be monitored and controlled by proper medical practitioners. Xanax may cause severe breathlessness and drowsiness in some patients, and these conditions call for urgent medical help.
Your doctor should know of the following medical conditions that you may have before prescribing Xanax:
● Glaucoma
● Use of drugs (in the past or currently)
● Alcoholism (Xanax can cause serious reactions in the presence of alcohol)
● Depression
● Liver diseases
● Kidney related troubles
● Lung or breathing issues
● Allergies of any sort that you may have
Further, Xanax is not advised in pregnant women. It could cause fetal deformities and other troubles, and so it is better to discontinue the use of Xanax during pregnancy, especially during the first three months. Similarly, Xanax might excrete into human breast milk, and cause reactions to the feeding infant. As such it is recommended that breast feeding women do not use the drug. Tell your doctor of any vitamins or supplements that you may be taking.
Controlled Usage
Xanax is considered a controlled substance. This requires special rules, recommendations and regulations to be present regarding the use of the drug. The rules need to be obeyed in prescribing as well as dispensing Xanax. This medication can also cause physical as well as psychological dependence. The risk of dependence is proportional to the period of using Xanax. Stopping Xanax all of a sudden may cause serious withdrawal problems, and as such a slow weaning is recommended. Patients are advised to not stop Xanax without consulting their medical practitioner first.
