Azolam 0.5mg

Alprazolam belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medicines. It is mainly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders, especially when symptoms are intense. The medicine works by acting on the GABA receptors in the brain. This increases the calming effect of the neurotransmitter GABA, helping reduce anxious activity in the nervous system and promoting relaxation. Because of this action, Alprazolam is considered useful for short-term relief of anxiety.

Ingredients

• Active ingredient: Alprazolam

Drug Class

• Benzodiazepine

Dosage Form

• Tablet

Uses

• Management of anxiety and panic disorders

• Short-term relief from anxiety symptoms

• Pre-operative calming before surgery

• Relief of nausea associated with chemotherapy

• Muscle relaxation

Dosage

• Usual starting dose: 0.5 mg daily in divided doses (up to 0.8 mg if needed)

• Maximum recommended dose: 4 mg per day

• Typically prescribed for short-term courses (around 12 weeks)

Overdose
An overdose requires careful medical supervision. Supportive treatment focuses on stabilizing breathing and heart function. In some cases, flumazenil may be used as an antidote.

Missed Dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. If it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Double doses should be avoided.

When Not to Use

• Allergy to Alprazolam or related ingredients

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Existing respiratory problems

• Ongoing use of certain interacting medications

• History of substance abuse

Possible Side Effects

• Dizziness

• Drowsiness

• Fatigue

• Dry mouth

• Increased appetite

• Agitation or confusion

• Memory issues

• Muscle weakness

• Difficulty concentrating

Precautions

• Use with caution in patients with depression, suicidal thoughts, or respiratory disease

• Dose adjustments may be needed for elderly or frail patients

• Should not be stopped suddenly due to risk of withdrawal

• Special care is required if combined with opioids or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors

Drug Interactions

• Increased sedation with opioids (morphine, codeine, oxycodone)

• Higher Alprazolam levels with ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, clarithromycin, ritonavir

• Reduced effect with rifampin, phenytoin, carbamazepine, or St. John’s Wort

• Increased sedation with diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine, propranolol, diltiazem, phenobarbital, butalbital

• Stronger effects when taken with fluoxetine or paroxetine

Food Interactions

• Grapefruit juice can raise Alprazolam levels in the blood

• Alcohol should be avoided due to increased sedation risk

Storage & Disposal

• Store in a cool, dry place at 15–25°C

• Keep in original packaging, away from light and moisture

• Out of reach of children and pets

• Dispose of unused or expired tablets through pharmacy take-back programs. Do not flush into water systems unless instructed.

Laboratory Monitoring
Patients on Alprazolam may undergo periodic blood and health checks to guide dosing and monitor safety during treatment.

Reviewed by:
Dr. Muhammad Muddasser Khan Panezai
Rheumatologist · General Physician

Important
This description is for awareness only. It is not a prescription. Do not start, stop, or change the use of Alprazolam without consulting a qualified healthcare provider.