Alpam 0.25 mg (Tablet)

Indications

• Anxiety disorder
• Short term relief of anxiety
• Anxiety associated with depression
• Panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia

Pharmacology

• Triazole analog of the 1,4-benzodiazepine class of drugs
• Anxiolytic with hypnotic and anticonvulsive properties
• Interacts with the Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-benzodiazepine receptor complex
• Causes dose-related CNS depressant activity

Dosage & Administration

• Initiated with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily
• Maximum dose should not exceed 4 mg/day
• Elderly patients or patients with advanced liver disease should start with 0.25 mg, two or three times daily
• Discontinuing therapy should involve gradual dosage reduction
• Tablets should be taken intact, not chewed, crushed, or broken

Interaction

• CNS-depressant action may be aggravated by concomitant use of other psychotropic drugs, anticonvulsants, antihistaminics, alcohol, and oral contraceptives

Side Effects

• Drowsiness and light-headedness
• Possible side effects: depression, headache, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, etc.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Categorized in pregnancy category D; should be avoided in pregnancy
• Assumed to be excreted in breast milk, so nursing should not be undertaken by mothers who use Alprazolam

Precautions & Warnings

• May produce psychological and physical dependence
• Dose adjustment or discontinuation should be done under physician's advice
• Administer with caution to patients with hepatic or renal disease, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, or sleep apnea

Use in Special Populations

• Safety and effectiveness not established in individuals below 18 years of age

Overdose Effects

• Manifestations include somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma
• General supportive measures and immediate gastric lavage should be employed in overdosage cases

Therapeutic Class

• Benzodiazepine sedatives

Storage Conditions

• Keep below 30°C temperature
• Away from light & moisture
• Keep out of the reach of children

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