Xanax is prescribed by a doctor. According to some reports, Xanax is the #1 drug for the treatment of anxiety, panic attacks and insomnia. Many people use it without harm to health. But you must clearly follow the instructions and all the recommendations that the doctor gave. In no case should you abuse Xanax pills, independently increase or decrease the dose, or change the frequency of administration.
If the doctor has prescribed Alprazolam to you or someone from your family, be sure to read the list of side effects, about the consequences of an overdose or possible problems after stopping the drug. Dizziness, dry mouth and headache are the most common symptoms of Xanax side effects.
One of the main side effects of Xanax is a possible addiction that can develop due to uncontrolled intake of the drug. Below you wil find the maininformation about other undesirable effects.
Possible side effects – Basic Information
Consult your doctor if you have notised any of the following side effects.
Usually, those who take Xanax complain of:
- dry mouth;
- drowsiness;
- dizziness or gibberish;
- speech impairment.
More rarely:
- gastrointestinal upsets;
- blurred vision;
- headache;
- muscle spasm;
- problems with urination;
- trembling;
- unusual tiredness or weakness;
- weight change.
Serious side effects:
- hallucinations;
- depression;
- confused breathing;
- problems with memory or speech;
- suicidal thoughts or actions;
- cramps;
- sudden weight change.
Short-term side effects of Xanax
The effect of Xanax occurs within 30-50 minutes after taking. That is why it is considered very effective in dealing with anxiety, stress, panic attacks. The effect of Alprazolam lasts an average of 5 hours. The larger the dose, the longer the effectiveness of Xanax. BUT! The active components of xanax after 1 dose are removed from the blood after 2-3 days, and after 5-6 days from urine.
Long-term side effects of Xanax
Most often, patients taking Xanax are afraid of a possible addiction. But doctors agree that small doses during a short course of treatment (2-4 weeks) will not harm health. The risk of addiction is in those patients who take Xanax more than 4 mg per day for longer than 12 weeks.
In the case of dependence, a person feels a constant need for the drug, in increasing the dose. With these or similar symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor. Never stop taking the drug on your own, because in this case the dependence may increase.
The risk of getting used to Xanax is greater for people who are taking the drug. In this case, it will be very difficult to refuse to take the medicine, even if the person himself wants it. Specialist help will be needed! All this applies to the combination of alcohol and Xanax!
Precautionary measures
The doctor will monitor your condition throughout the course of treatment with Xanax – this is ideal. To maximally eliminate side effects, additional blood and urine tests may be required – be prepared for this.
During pregnancy (onset and even planned) it is better to refuse to take Xanax. Alprazolam treatment is only possible if the predicted beneficial effect is higher than the potential harm. The same applies to lactation.
It is strictly forbidden to take Ketoconazole or Itraconazole with Xanax! In this case, the likelihood of serious side effects increases significantly.
Experts do not recommend taking Xanax with antihistamines or medicines for hay fever, allergies or colds, sedatives, tranquilizers, or sleeping pills.
Conclusion
If the first, even the smallest side effects appear, you should immediately consult a doctor. Most likely, he will adjust the dose and decide whether you can continue the course of treatment with Xanax against anxiety, panic attacks and sleep disorder. In no case do not stop taking Alprazolam yourself!
