Most medications may cause side effects that can be serious or mild. To give you an idea of what might occur with Xanax, we’ve listed some of the medication’s more common side effects below. Keep in mind that we haven’t included all the potential side effects. Xanax contains the active drug alprazolam, which is a controlled substance. The federal government regulates controlled substances because taking them may lead some people to misuse the drugs. Anxiety isn’t just a chemical imbalance, life experiences also affect it, relationships, trauma, and stress.
What Does Xanax Feel Like If You’re Using It Recreationally?
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.
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The risk of serious problems such as severe dizziness, sleepiness, trouble breathing, coma, and death may be higher if you drink alcohol while taking alprazolam. People who are aged 65 years or older can be at greater risk for some side effects of alprazolam. Talk to your healthcare provider about your risks if you are in this age group. Alprazolam is a controlled substance because it can be misused or lead to dependence. Store alprazolam in a safe place to protect it from theft.
Talking With Your Doctor
The drug may cause harm in newborns who were exposed to it during pregnancy. You can also ask your medical professional whether any of these drugs are right for you. You’ll likely feel the effects of Xanax for several hours after each dose.
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However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. If you are using the orally disintegrating tablet, make sure your hands are dry before you handle the tablet. Do not remove the tablets from the bottle until you are ready to take it. Place the tablet immediately on the top of your tongue.
Xanax And Other Medications
It eases anxiety by boosting the effect of GABA, a type of neurotransmitter in your brain. If you no longer need to take Xanax and have leftover medication, it’s important to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident.
Alternatives For Generalized Anxiety Disorder
For more examples, see the “Xanax interactions” section. By boosting the effect of GABA, Xanax helps reduce nervous tension and feelings of anxiety. If your doctor has prescribed Xanax and you’re interested in taking alprazolam instead, talk with your doctor. They may have a preference for one version or the other. You’ll also need to check your insurance plan, as it may only cover one or the other.
These happen when the body’s used to the medication and doesn’t have time to adapt to being without it. Short-term use of Xanax is the norm because of possible tolerance and dependence. In other words, over time, the usual dose might not have the same effect. This is why most plans include regular check-ins and a clear endpoint.
You can also ask your pharmacist for information about how to dispose of your medication. How long a medication remains good can depend on many factors, including how and where you store the medication. Before approving coverage for Xanax, your insurance company may require you to get prior authorization. This means that your doctor and insurance company will need to communicate about your prescription before the insurance company will cover the drug.
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Xanax side effects can show up early in treatment or after a dose change. Yet, others may linger or feel more noticeable, especially with regular use. Xanax has a high potential to be a habit-forming drug. Symptoms of withdrawal typically begin within 24 hours after your last dose, and may last anywhere between a few days to a few weeks.
Alprazolam Side Effects
Xanax has a boxed warning for the risk of misuse and addiction. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The warning alerts doctors and patients to side effects that may be dangerous. Xanax is typically prescribed for short periods of time to relieve anxiety symptoms while other treatments, such as antidepressants, are taking effect. Antidepressants can take about 4 to 6 weeks to start working for anxiety disorders.
- Talk to your healthcare provider about your risks if you are in this age group.
- This results in a calming effect that helps relieve symptoms of anxiety and panic disorder.
- As with all medications, the cost of Xanax can vary.
- GABA helps pass nerve messages that have a calming effect on your brain.
Xanax Use With Other Drugs
Keep in mind that certain drugs, when used together with Xanax, may increase your risk for side effects or decrease how well Xanax works. While you take Xanax, be sure to check with your medical professional before using any other medications. It’s important that you don’t take more Xanax than your medical professional recommends. Taking more than the recommended dosage can lead to severe side effects, including coma and, in some cases, death. Xanax, lorazepam, clonazepam, and diazepam belong to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines.
