Alprazol 0.5 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

• Initiate treatment with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily
• Maximize the dose to 4 mg/day depending on the response
• Periodic reassessment for panic disorder patients requiring up to 10 mg/day
• Individualize dosage for maximum beneficial effect with the lowest possible dose
• Reduce dosage gradually by no more than 0.5 mg every three days when discontinuing therapy
• Usual starting dose for elderly patients or those with advanced liver disease is 0.25 mg, two or three times daily
• Administer Alprazolam 1 mg once daily in the morning for patients on multiple dosage regimens of 0.25/0.5 mg
• Tablets should be taken intact, should not be 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

• Frequent side effects: drowsiness and light-headedness
• Other side effects: depression, headache, confusion, dry mouth, constipation, etc.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Category D in pregnancy, should be avoided
• Assumed to be excreted in breast milk, nursing should be avoided

Precautions & Warnings

• May produce psychological and physical dependence
• Dose adjustment or discontinuation should be done under physician's advice
• Administer with caution in 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, coma
• General supportive measures should be employed along with immediate gastric lavage

Therapeutic Class

• Benzodiazepine sedatives

Storage Conditions

• Keep below 30°C temperature
• Keep away from light and moisture
• Keep out of the reach of children

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