In some cases, your doctor may decide that Xanax is no longer the appropriate medication for you, even at a decreased dosage. This could happen if you have severe side effects or if you need to take another medication that interacts with Xanax. If you stop taking Xanax, you will typically https://sober-home.org/ follow a slow taper schedule (a gradual decrease). Your doctor will typically prescribe it for as short a time as possible. The following information describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you.
- The manufacturer does not provide information on taking Xanax this way.
- Taking certain drugs, foods, vaccines, and other substances with some medications may affect how the medication works.
- It can treat various symptoms of GAD, including high levels of anxiety, restlessness, and muscle tension.
- Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to severe side effects, including coma and, in some cases, death.
- Mild side effects of Xanax can last a short or long time.
Take alprazolam exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use alprazolam in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of alprazolam. This medicine can cause birth defects or life-threatening withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. The compounded effects of combining these drugs may be dangerous and put you at risk for health issues or death.
However, it’s not as sedating, it doesn’t impair memory and coordination, and the withdrawal effects are minimal. Benzodiazepines work by slowing down the nervous system, helping you relax both physically and mentally. The higher the dose, the more intense these side effects typically are—although some people feel sleepy, foggy, and uncoordinated even on low doses. This can cause problems with work, school, or everyday activities such as driving. Do not stop using alprazolam without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use.
How long does Xanax stay in your system?
Also, be sure to contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have any symptoms of misuse or addiction, or any concerns about them. Xanax is FDA-approved to treat panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, in adults. You should not take pain relievers that contain an opioid with Xanax unless your doctor has approved it. If you need a pain reliever during Xanax treatment, ask your doctor or pharmacist to recommend a suitable medication. Xanax and buspirone may be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder. The half-life of alprazolam (Xanax) is about 11 hours in adults.
Typically, your doctor will start you taking a low dosage. Then they’ll adjust it over time to reach the amount that’s can you detox from weed right for you. Your doctor will ultimately prescribe the smallest dosage that provides the desired effect.
Accessible drug containers and labels
The generic is considered to be as safe and effective as the original drug. And generics tend to cost less than brand-name drugs. To find out how the cost of alprazolam compares to the cost of Xanax, see this article.
Alternatives for generalized anxiety disorder
The effects of the drug usually appear within 1 hour. The most common side effects of XANAX include problems with coordination, hypotension, trouble saying words clearly, and changes in sex drive (libido). Do not take XANAX if you are allergic to alprazolam, other benzodiazepines, or any of the ingredients in XANAX.
The drugs are recommended for short-term treatment to help reduce the frequency of panic attacks. To treat panic disorder in adults, the recommended starting dosage of Xanax is 0.5 mg three times per day. Alprazolam (Xanax®) is one of the most commonly prescribed psychiatric medications.
With dependence, your body becomes reliant on a medication to function as it typically would. Dependence can lead to withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking the medication. Withdrawal symptoms are more common if your dose is higher and you have taken Xanax for a longer period of time. Your doctor may increase your daily dosage slowly, depending on how your body responds to the drug. They may adjust your dose every 3 to 4 days until you’re taking the dose that’s right for you. Xanax prescribing information reports a maximum daily dosage of 4 mg, split into three doses.
This means that it takes about 11 hours for the active ingredient in the medication to reduce by half in your body. If you take more Xanax than your doctor prescribes, you may develop serious side effects. The manufacturer reports that overdose is more likely when Xanax is combined with alcohol or other drugs. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication.
The medication works quickly, so it can help you fall asleep if you have trouble doing so. However, doctors prescribe Xanax only in certain circumstances because your sleep problems may come back when you stop taking the drug. It’s possible that your doctor will adjust your dose every 3 to 4 days until you’re taking the dose that’s right for you. This depends on how you respond to the starting dosage. Your dose should be increased by no more than 1 mg per day.
Both Xanax and CNS depression may lead to side effects such as lack of coordination and drowsiness. So your risk for these side effects is higher than usual if you drink alcohol while taking Xanax. It’s important to talk with your medical professional before taking Xanax. You should discuss your overall health and any medical conditions you may have. If you have other questions about what to expect with Xanax treatment, talk with your medical professional or pharmacist. For more details about how Xanax and opioids are alike and different, talk with your medical professional or pharmacist.