- How to use
- How long does it take to take effect?
- Does Alprazolam make you sleepy?
- Who should not use
- Possible side effects
Alprazolam is an active substance indicated for the treatment of anxiety disorders, which can include symptoms such as anxiety, tension, fear of apprehension, uneasiness, difficulties with concentration, irritability or insomnia, for example.
In addition, this remedy can also be used to treat panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, in which an unexpected panic attack, a sudden attack of intense apprehension, fear or terror may occur.
Alprazolam can be purchased in pharmacies for a price of about 8 to 57 reais, depending on the dose and size of the package, upon presentation of a prescription.
How to use
The dose of alprazolam should be adapted to each case, based on the severity of the symptoms and the individual response of each person.
Generally, the recommended starting dose for the treatment of anxiety disorders is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg administered 3 times daily and the maintenance dose is 0.5 mg to 4 mg daily, administered in divided doses.. Find out what anxiety disorder is.
For the treatment of panic disorders, the starting dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg before bed or 0.5 mg given 3 times a day and the maintenance dose should be adjusted to the person's response to treatment.
In elderly patients or those with a debilitating condition, the recommended starting dose is 0.25 mg, 2 or 3 times daily and the maintenance dose can vary between 0.5 mg and 0.75 mg daily, administered in doses divided.
How long does it take to take effect?
After ingestion, alprazolam is rapidly absorbed and the maximum concentration of the drug in the body occurs in about 1 to 2 hours after administration and the time it takes to eliminate is on average 11 hours, unless the person suffers from kidney or liver failure.
Does Alprazolam make you sleepy?
One of the most common side effects that can occur during treatment with alprazolam is sedation and drowsiness, so it is very likely that some people will feel sleepy during treatment.
Who should not use
Alprazolam should not be used in people who are hypersensitive to any of the components in the formula or to other benzodiazepines, people with myasthenia gravis or acute narrow-angle glaucoma.
In addition, it should also not be used in children under 18 years of age, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Possible side effects
The most common side effects that may occur during treatment with alprazolam are depression, sedation, drowsiness, ataxia, memory disorders, difficulty articulating words, dizziness, headache, constipation, dry mouth, fatigue and irritability.
Although it is more rare, in some cases, alprazolam can cause decreased appetite, confusion, disorientation, decreased or increased sexual desire, anxiety, insomnia, nervousness, balance disorders, abnormal coordination, attention disorders, hypersomnia, lethargy, tremor, blurred vision, nausea, dermatitis, sexual dysfunction and changes in body weight.
