Xanax XR
"What are benzodiazepines, and how do they work?
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs primarily used for treating anxiety, but they also are effective in treating several other conditions. The exact mechanism of action of benzodiaz"...
Xanax XR
Xanax XR Patient Information Including Side Effects
Brand Names: Niravam, Xanax, Xanax XR
Generic Name: alprazolam (Pronunciation: al PRAY zoe lam)
- What is alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- What are the possible side effects of alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- What is the most important information I should know about alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- How should I take alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- What happens if I miss a dose (Xanax XR)?
- What happens if I overdose (Xanax XR)?
- What should I avoid while taking alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- What other drugs will affect alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
- Where can I get more information?
What is alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
Alprazolam is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.
Alprazolam may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What are the possible side effects of alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficult breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Stop using alprazolam and call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:
- depressed mood, thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself, unusual risk-taking behavior, decreased inhibitions, no fear of danger;
- confusion, hyperactivity, agitation, hostility, hallucinations;
- feeling like you might pass out;
- urinating less than usual or not at all;
- chest pain, pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest;
- uncontrolled muscle movements, tremor, seizure (convulsions); or
- jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may include:
- drowsiness, dizziness, feeling tired or irritable;
- blurred vision, headache, memory problems, trouble concentrating;
- sleep problems (insomnia);
- swelling in your hands or feet;
- muscle weakness, lack of balance or coordination, slurred speech;
- upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea;
- increased sweating, dry mouth, stuffy nose; or
- appetite or weight changes, loss of interest in sex.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Read the Xanax XR (alprazolam) Side Effects Center for a complete guide to possible side effects »
What is the most important information I should know about alprazolam (Xanax XR)?
Do not use this medication if you are allergic to alprazolam or to other benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).
Before taking alprazolam, tell your doctor if you have any breathing problems, glaucoma, kidney or liver disease, or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.
Do not drink alcohol while taking alprazolam. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol.
Alprazolam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it.
Additional Xanax XR Information
Xanax XR - User Reviews
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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