About alprazolam
Benzodiazepine anti-anxiety medicine
Used for
- Short-term treatment of anxiety disorders
- Short-term relief of anxiety symptoms
- Panic disorder
Usual adult dose
Anxiety: usually 0.25–0.5 mg three times daily. Panic disorder: commonly starts at 0.5 mg three times daily; doses are individualized.
Common side effects
- Sleepiness and dizziness
- Poor coordination or memory problems
- Dry mouth or constipation
- Dependence and withdrawal symptoms
Important warnings
- Can cause dependence; stopping suddenly may cause dangerous withdrawal.
- Avoid alcohol and opioids; combined use can slow breathing or cause death.
- May impair driving and alertness.
- Use cautiously with breathing problems, liver disease, or a history of substance misuse.
Pregnancy
May harm the fetus, especially late in pregnancy; newborns may develop sedation or withdrawal. Use only when clearly necessary.
Breastfeeding
Can cause infant sleepiness and poor feeding; generally not recommended during breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Opioids, alcohol, and other sedatives increase severe drowsiness and breathing risks.
- Strong CYP3A inhibitors, including ketoconazole, can raise alprazolam levels.
- Some antidepressants and antifungals can increase effects; carbamazepine may reduce them.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.