How To Use
Take alprazolam exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand
these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them
to you. Take each dose with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or
break the extended-release form alprazolam (Xanax XR). Swallow them whole.
These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in
the body. prescribed for you. Alprazolam is habit forming. You can become
physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more
than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed
by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if alprazolam is stopped suddenly
after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden
discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction
in dose. Store alprazolam at room temperature away from moisture
and heat.
Missed Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time
for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly
scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double
dose could be dangerous.
Over Dose
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost
time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly
scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose
could be dangerous.
Possible Side Effects
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop
taking alprazolam and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor
immediately: · an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing
of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives); · sores
in the mouth or throat; · yellowing of the skin or eyes; · a
rash; · hallucinations or severe confusion; or · changes in
vision. Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur.
Continue to take alprazolam and talk to your doctor if you experience · drowsiness,
dizziness, or clumsiness; · depression; · nausea, vomiting,
diarrhea, or constipation; · difficulty urinating; · vivid
dreams; · headache; · dry mouth; · decreased sex drive;
or · changes in behavior. Side effects other than those listed
here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems
unusual or that is especially bothersome.
Precautions
Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other
hazardous activities. Alprazolam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness.
If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Avoid
alcohol while taking alprazolam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness
caused by alprazolam. Alprazolam may increase the effects of other
drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines,
sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure
medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that
you are taking, and do not take any other medicine without first talking
to your doctor.
Drug Interactions
Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during
treatment with alprazolam without first talking to your doctor. Alprazolam
may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including
antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia),
pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants.
Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take
any medicine without first talking to your doctor. Antacids may decrease
the effects of alprazolam. Separate doses of an antacid and alprazolam by
several hours whenever possible. Drugs other than those listed here
may also interact with alprazolam. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before
taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.
Notes
Your pharmacist has additional information about alprazolam written for health
professionals that you may read
STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30
degrees C) away from light and moisture.
Disclaimer
This information is not intended to substitute for professional medical advice.
Be sure to contact your physician, pharmacist or other health care provider
for more information about this medication.
|