Xanax Information

What is Xanax?

1. Xanax is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Xanax affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.
2. Xanax is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders.
3. Xanax is also used to treat panic disorders and may also be used for other purposes.

What is the most important information I should know about Xanax?

• Xanax will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities.
• Avoid alcohol while taking Xanax. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Xanax.
• Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

How should I take Xanax?

1. Take Xanax exactly as directed by your doctor. You must read the instructions and follow them carefully. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or a doctor to explain them to you.
2. Take each dose with a glass of water.
3. Do not crush, chew, or break the extended-release form Xanax XR. Swallow them whole. These tablets are specially formulated to release the medication slowly in the body.
4. Do not take more of the medication than is prescribed for you.
5. Xanax is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if Xanax is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Seizures may be a side effect of sudden discontinuation of the medication. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.
6. Store Xanax at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous. Always follow medical advice.

What happens if I overdose?

1. Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
2. Symptoms of an Xanax overdose include sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, a slow heart beat, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking and talking, an appearance of being drunk, and unconsciousness.

What are the possible side effects of Xanax?

• If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Xanax and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, face, or tongue; or hives); sores in the mouth or throat; yellowing of the skin or eyes; a rash; hallucinations or severe confusion; or changes in vision.
• Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take Xanax and talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness; depression; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation; difficulty urinating; vivid dreams; headache; dry mouth; decreased sex drive; or changes in behavior.
• Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Xanax?

1. Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during treatment with Xanax without first talking to your doctor.
2. Xanax may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
3. Antacids may decrease the effects of Xanax. Separate doses of an antacid and Xanax by several hours whenever possible.
4. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Xanax. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. There is no warrantly for nay information contained within these pages. This drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners. The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. No responsibility is assumed for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information contained herein. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.