Alprazolam
Generic Details
Generic Name
Alprazolam
Other Names
- Xanax
- Niravam
- Xanor
Drug Class
- Benzodiazepine
Chemical Formula
C17H13ClN4
Molecular Weight
308.77 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enhancement of inhibitory neurotransmission via modulation of GABA receptors
Indications
- Anxiety disorders
- Panic disorders
- Depression with anxiety
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral Solution
Typical Dosage
- 0.25-0.5 mg 3 times daily
Pediatric Dosage
- Not recommended for children
Geriatric Dosage
- Initial dose of 0.25 mg 2-3 times daily
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Impaired coordination
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines
- Narrow-angle glaucoma
- Severe liver disease
Pregnancy Category
- D
Lactation Safety
- Use with caution, excreted in breast milk
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol
- Opioids
- Antidepressants
Overdose Symptoms
- Extreme drowsiness
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- Flumazenil
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta, excreted in breast milk
- Metabolism: Hepatic via CYP3A4
- Excretion: Mainly renal
Precautions
- History of substance abuse
- Renal or hepatic impairment
- Elderly patients
Warnings
- May be habit-forming
- Risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms
Others
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation