Xanax

Xanax chemically called Alprazolam is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs used in the treatment of anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and even depression. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class which has a solid reputation as a strong and quickly working drug for anxiety and stress treatment. In this blog post, you will learn all the basics about Xanax, including its mechanism of action, formulations, and drawbacks.

What is Xanax (Alprazolam)?

Xanax (Alprazolam) is a short acting benzodiazepine which was approved for use by the FDA in 1981. This is achievable since the medicine augments the severity of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the mind. GABA maintains the stability and excitability of the neurons and also reduces the discharges of nerve cells. By attaching itself to certain receptors, Xanax relaxes you, brings down your anxiety levels and induces sleep.

What is Xanax used for?

Xanax is used to alleviate symptoms associated with anxiety disorders, panic attacks and insomnia but for a short term. This is also used in treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome and in premedication for interventions and diagnostic procedures. Some of the off-label uses are for depression, Irritable bowel syndrome and fibromyalgia.

How does Xanax work?

Xanax (Alprazolam) comes from a class of drugs known to enhance the action of GABA, a neurotransmitter within the brain, by engagement of specific sites on the GABA receptors. The increase in inhibitory neurotransmission results in reduced neuronal excitability which leads into body relaxation making the muscle to relax to reduce the tension muscles.

Types/Forms of Xanax

Xanax comes in different forms; in tablets, extended-release tablets, and in the form of an oral solution. The most common forms are:

1. Immediate-release tablets: These exist in concentrations of 0.25 mg, 0.5mg, 1mg, and 2mg amounts respectively.
2. Extended-release tablets: These are packaged in strengths of 0.5mg, 1mg, 2mg and 3mg.
3. Oral solution: It comes in a concentration of 1 milligrams per millilitre.

How long does Xanax stay in the Human Body ?

Xanax’s half-life differs and falls between 6.3 and 65.7 hours, with an average of 11.2 hours. This means that, theoretically, it should take about 6.3 to 65.7 hours to metabolise half the drug in the body. I dosage and drinking were involved, Xanax can start working in about 1-2 hours but its effects can wear off within 4-6 hours.

How Much Xanax is Too Much?

Xanax use can lead to harmful respiratory problems, coma, and death. One must not take more drugs than are recommended even if he feels that he still needs more of it. Xanax should not be taken in an amount that is more than 10mg in a single day and should be taken under the doctor’s advice.

Side Effects of Xanax (Alprazolam)

Common side effects of Xanax include:

1. Drowsiness
2. Dizziness
3. Fatigue
4. Weakness
5. Confusion
6. Depression
7. Headache
8. Nausea

More severe side effects may include:

1. Difficulty breathing
2. Memory problems
3. Abnormal outgoing or introverted behavior and emotions
4. Ideas for intending to kill one’s self or for killing one’s self.

Risks and Precautions

Some of the inherent risks with Xanax include the following Crossroads of Risks and Precautions. Xanax can lead to withdrawal symptoms, back to anxiety if discontinued and patients develop dependence on it. In order to avoid withdrawal symptoms one has to quit the medication following the health care provider’s advice and do it gradually. You should not discontinue the use of Xanax without the supervision of your doctor.

Xanax may have an interaction with another medication, alcohol, opioids, and other CNS depressants. This is important because your doctor could be asking you about the various medications, supplements or even the herbal products you are taking so that he will not prescribe drugs that could cause an adverse reaction when taken with the other drugs.

How Does Someone Get Xanax?

Xanax is an officially registered pharmaceutical product, so its usage and purchasing should be provided with a valid prescription alone with a prescription by a healthcare professional. One should not buy this drug from the unauthorized sellers or from the online markets as they serve fake or contaminated products.

Alternatives Treatment Of Anxiety And Depression

There are several alternative treatments for anxiety and depression, including:

1. Psychotherapy: However anxiety and depressive disorders can be treated with CBT, talk therapy, or exposure therapy.
2. Lifestyle changes: These disorders can be relieved with exercise, proper diet, sleep, and leisure activity.
3. Other medications: Medications including SSRI and SNRI can be taken as anxiolytics or for depression treatment.

Is it a good idea to purchase Xanax on websites online?

Most of the time it is not safe for one to purchase Xanax from the online websites since the product sold online may not be real, safe or effective. In addition, buying medications online may be prohibited and therefore one may face the law.

Conclusion

Alprazolam is a very strong drug, which is used for the management of several disorders like anxiety disorders, panic disorder, as well as depression. But it should only be taken as directed by the doctor and should have a medical practitioner overseeing its application. Although Xanax may help in getting rid of the symptoms it poses certain dangers and side effects. One has to then evaluate the advantages and the deductions and otherwise consider any other treatment opportunities. However, people should understand that self- medication is at times very risky and it is always advisable to seek a doctor's advice when one has anxiety and or depression.