Medicine Information

Alpam

Name: Alpam
Brand: Alpam
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

Tablet0.25 mgAnxiolytic, Sedative-HypnoticATC: N05BA12

Generic Name

Alprazolam 0.25 mg Tablet

Manufacturer

Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
alpam 025 mg tablet	৳ 1.00	৳ 10.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Alprazolam 0.25 mg Tablet is a benzodiazepine medication primarily used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and anxiety associated with depression. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA).

Uses & Indications

Anxiety disorders

Panic disorder (with or without agoraphobia)

Anxiety associated with depression

Dosage

Adults

Initial dose 0.25-0.5 mg, 3 times daily. May be increased to a maximum of 4 mg daily in divided doses. For panic disorder, initial 0.5 mg 3 times daily, may be increased up to 10 mg daily.

Elderly

Initial dose 0.25 mg, 2-3 times daily, or as directed by physician.

Renal_impairment

Use with caution. Dosage reduction may be necessary.

How to Take

Oral administration. Can be taken with or without food. Swallow whole, do not crush or chew.

Mechanism of Action

Alprazolam binds to specific benzodiazepine receptors on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor complex, thereby enhancing the inhibitory effects of GABA. This leads to reduced neuronal excitability, producing anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

30 minutes to 1 hour

Excretion

Excreted mainly in the urine as metabolites.

Half life

Approximately 11.2 hours (range 6.3-26.9 hours)

Absorption

Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1-2 hours.

Metabolism

Primarily hepatic, via cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) to inactive metabolites.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Known hypersensitivity to alprazolam or other benzodiazepines
Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
Concomitant use with strong CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)

Drug Interactions

Opioids

Increased risk of sedation, respiratory depression.

Alcohol and other CNS depressants

Enhanced sedative effects.

CYP3A inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, rifampin)

Decreased alprazolam plasma levels.

CYP3A inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, nefazodone, fluvoxamine, cimetidine)

Increased alprazolam plasma levels.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms include somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma. Management involves supportive care, gastric lavage/activated charcoal if recent ingestion, and flumazenil (benzodiazepine receptor antagonist) may be considered but with caution due to risk of seizures.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy Category D. May cause fetal harm. Avoid during pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk, avoid during breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 tablets per strip30 tablets per box

Shelf Life

36 months

Availability

Pharmacies, Hospitals

Approval Status

Approved

Patent Status

Off-patent

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials have established alprazolam's efficacy in anxiety and panic disorders. Ongoing research focuses on long-term safety and withdrawal protocols.

Lab Monitoring

No specific routine lab monitoring is required for Alprazolam. Liver and renal function tests may be considered in patients with pre-existing impairment or on long-term therapy.

Doctor Notes

Prescribe for the shortest effective duration to minimize risks of dependence and withdrawal.
Counsel patients on the risks of concomitant use with opioids and alcohol.
Monitor for signs of abuse or misuse.

Patient Guidelines

Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as withdrawal symptoms may occur.
Avoid alcohol and other CNS depressants while taking this medicine.
Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Take exactly as prescribed.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.

Driving Precautions

May cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired concentration. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Alprazolam affects you.

Lifestyle Advice

Practice relaxation techniques (e.g., deep breathing, meditation) to manage anxiety.
Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
Avoid excessive caffeine intake.