Xanax is a Benzodiazephines drug with a brand name alprazolan and labeled as Schedule IV controlled substance. It is first used as tranquilizer until in the year 1970’s where the people had been taken aback of Xanax side effects. This drug is mostly prescribed by doctors to patients, who are experiencing extreme cases of anxiety attacks, panic disorders, tensions and severe depression. Xanax works by improving the effect of gama-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain which will decrease nervous activity thus fights against the occurrence of anxiety and the symptoms of nervous disorders. The intake of this drug will promote drowsiness, sedation, hypnosis, as well as it relaxes your muscles. It slows down the activities in the brain and affects the part that controls human emotions thus overpowering our feelings. Other uses of Xanax include insomnia, seizure, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Xanax Formulation:
Xanax can be taken as oral solution or as tablets. A new formulation has now been released in Xanax which is called Xanax XR. It offers a fast – acting and longer effect feature compared to the older formulation. Xanax is prescription medication so one cannot take it without consulting a physician first. Young patients who are not used in taking this medication normally start with a dosage of 0.5 mg which can be taken once – thrice a day depending on the doctor’s prescription. Older patients are usually given a dosage that should not exceed with 1mg each day. Patients should not also drink alcohol while on medication with Xanax as this could increase the effect of alcohol to the body.
Xanax Precaution:
Pregnant women, nursing mothers and patients under 18 years of age are not prescribed to take Xanax. Certain component in the medication is known to cause birth defects to embryos. People who develop allergic reaction to benzodiazephines, have narrow-angle glaucoma, or currently taking other medications must not take Xanax. You must also inform your doctor if you have asthma or breathing disorders, glaucoma, and internal organ problem. Other conditions that your doctor must know about include past experiences in depression, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, and alcohol or drug addiction.
Xanax Side Effects:
Just like any other medicine, Xanax treatment also has side effects. Its side effects vary from person to person. Most likely, older patients are more susceptible to Xanax side effects compared to younger patients. There are also Xanax users who can tolerate the treatment well. Below are the lists of Xanax side effects:
Less serious Xanax Side Effects that occurs to 30%-80% of Xanax users:
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Muscle problems
- Short Temper
- Rashes
- Constipation
- Increased Appetite
- Forgetfullness
Less serious Xanax Side Effects that occurs to 1%-30% of Xanax users:
- Speech problems
- Hallucinations and vivid dreams
- Dry and watery mouth
- Nasal clogging
- Weight loss and weight gain
- Problem in urinating
- Loss in sexual interest and other sexual problems
Serious Xanax Side Effects:
- Patients who no longer feels fear or an obvious decrease in patients inhibitions
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Hyperactivity or uncontrolled behavior
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Tremor
- Jaundice
- Anterograde amnesia
Xanax side effects do not depend on the gender of the person taking it. However, studies have revealed that Xanax have caused erectile problems in men and decreased libido in women. A major component of Xanax is proven to be very addictive so it could lead to a habit forming medication. Make sure to follow the doctor’s prescription if you want to do away with its adverse effects and be treated accordingly. Patients who take Xanax to treat their anxiety and depression are mostly likely have an increased appetite in food and gained weight.
Xanax Withdrawal Symptoms:
Xanax Withdrawal Effects:
- Numbness or lack of sensation
- Indifference
- Hallucinations and nightmares
- Night sweating
- Increased anxiety and tension
- Heightened depression
- Insomnia
- Mental fog
- Cognitive problem
Withdrawal symptoms vary from the dosage and the length of the time that the patient that is taking Xanax. People who have been taking Xanax for so long may encounter nastier withdrawal symptoms than those who just took it for just a couple of months. If you are planning to stop the medication, do not cease taking Xanax right away. Have your dosage reduced little by little as this also reduce the occurrence of withdrawal symptoms.
Xanax Additional Advice:
Whenever you develop adverse effects in taking Xanax, be sure to inform your physician about it right away. This way, your doctor will be able to deal with it and prevent more extreme side effects from occurring.