The Do’s and don’ts of consuming Xanax

Understanding Xanax

Xanax (alprazolam) belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. It works by slowing down the movement of chemicals in the brain that may become unstable. This leads to a reduction in nervous tension. The medication is used to treat anxiety disorders, panic disorders, and anxiety caused by depression.  Also do not use Xanax if you are allergic to alprazolam or to other benzodiazepines, such as chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or oxazepam (Serax).

Essential considerations before the intake of Xanax

It is treacherous to try and purchase Xanax on the Internet or from vendors outside of the United States. Anxiety Medications distributed from Internet sales may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy. Samples of the medicine purchased on the Internet have been found to contain haloperidol (Haldol), a potent antipsychotic drug with dangerous side effects. The medication should not be consumed if you have:

1. Narrow-angle glaucoma
2. If you are also taking itraconazole (Sporanox) or ketoconazole (Nizoral)
3. Asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems
4. Kidney or liver disease (especially alcoholic liver disease)
5. A history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior
6. A history of drug or alcohol addiction.

Do not use Xanax if you are pregnant. It could harm the unborn baby. The pill may also cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Use effective birth control, and tell your doctor if you become pregnant during treatment. Alprazolam, an ingredient of the pill can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while you are using this medicine. The sedative effects of Xanax may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines.

Method of consuming Xanax

The medicine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not consume it in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results.

Do not crush, chew, or break a Xanax extended-release tablet. Swallow the tablet whole. It is specially made to release medicine slowly in the body. Breaking the tablet would cause too much of the drug to be released at one time. The pill should be stored at room temperature away from moisture and heat. 

Things to be avoided while consuming Xanax

Alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking Xanax. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol. It may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be alert.

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Xanax and lead to potentially dangerous effects.

Overdose results

Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222. An overdose of Xanax can be fatal. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, and muscle weakness, loss of balance or coordination, feeling light-headed, and fainting.