Xanax
Generic Name
Alprazolam
Manufacturer
Pfizer Inc.
Country
United States
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| xanax 05 mg tablet | ৳ 2.51 | ৳ 25.10 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Xanax 0.5 mg Tablet contains Alprazolam, a benzodiazepine primarily used for the short-term management of anxiety disorders and panic disorder. It works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Anxiety: Initially 0.25-0.5 mg three times daily. Max 4 mg/day. Panic Disorder: Initially 0.5 mg three times daily. Max 10 mg/day.
Elderly
Initially 0.25 mg two or three times daily. Adjust dose as needed and tolerated.
Renal_impairment
Use with caution. Dose adjustment may be necessary based on the degree of impairment and individual response.
How to Take
Take orally with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or break.
Mechanism of Action
Alprazolam binds to specific benzodiazepine receptors on the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-A receptor complex in the central nervous system. This binding enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA, leading to central nervous system depression, resulting in anxiolytic, sedative, hypnotic, skeletal muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant properties.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Anxiolytic effects typically begin within 1-2 hours after administration.
Excretion
Metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. Less than 1% of an administered dose is excreted unchanged in the urine.
Half life
The elimination half-life is approximately 11 to 15 hours in healthy adults, but can range from 6.3 to 26.9 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly and well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 1 to 2 hours after oral administration.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by the cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) enzyme system, producing two main metabolites: 4-hydroxyalprazolam and alpha-hydroxyalprazolam.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- •Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
- •Concomitant use with potent cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A) inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole)
- •Severe respiratory insufficiency
- •Sleep apnea
- •Myasthenia gravis
- •Hypersensitivity to alprazolam or other benzodiazepines
Drug Interactions
Opioids
Increased risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Avoid concomitant use.
Oral Contraceptives
May increase alprazolam plasma levels.
Alcohol and other CNS Depressants
Additive CNS depressant effects leading to increased sedation, respiratory depression. Avoid concomitant use.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, fluvoxamine, nefazodone, cimetidine)
Can significantly decrease alprazolam clearance, leading to increased plasma concentrations and enhanced effects. Dose reduction of alprazolam may be necessary.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include somnolence, confusion, impaired coordination, diminished reflexes, and coma. Management is primarily supportive. Maintain a patent airway, monitor vital signs. Flumazenil, a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, may be used but with caution due to the risk of precipitating acute withdrawal or seizures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Alprazolam is Pregnancy Category D. It should be avoided during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, due to potential risks of congenital abnormalities and neonatal withdrawal syndrome if used late in pregnancy. Lactation: Alprazolam and its active metabolites are excreted into breast milk. Not recommended for use in breastfeeding mothers due to potential adverse effects on the infant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture when stored under recommended conditions.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by FDA and DGDA
Patent Status
Expired
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