What is Xanax? How does it work (mechanism of action)?

Alprazolam (Xanax XR, Niravam), is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine drug family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Alprazolam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits activity in the brain. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may cause anxiety or other psychiatric disorders. Buy Xanax 2mg Online

Xanax is used for the treatment of anxiety disorders and panic attacks. Anxiety disorders are characterized by:

Unrealistic worry and apprehension

Symptoms of restlessness

Aches

Trembling

Shortness of breath

Smothering sensation

Palpitations

Sweating

Cold clammy hands

Lightheadedness

Flushing

Exaggerated startle responses

Problems concentrating

Insomnia

Xanax also is used for treating anxiety associated with panic attacks. Panic attacks occur either unexpectedly or in certain situations (for example, driving), and can require higher dosages of Xanax.

The most common side effects of Xanax taken at lower doses are:

Drowsiness

Fatigue

Other side effects include:

Memory problems

Speech problems

Constipation

Changes in weight

Addiction (dependency)

Headache

Constipation

Dry mouth

Withdrawal Addiction is more likely to occur at high doses given over prolonged periods. Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as:

Insomnia

Headaches

Nausea

Vomiting

Lightheadedness

Sweating

Anxiety

Fatigue

Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently, patients on alprazolam for extended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under a doctor’s supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication.

The starting dose for treating anxiety is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 to 4 times daily using immediate release tablets.

The starting dose for treating panic attacks is 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Doses can be increased every 3-4 days but by no more than 1 mg daily.

The effective dose for preventing panic attacks may be as high as 10 mg daily for some patients. The starting dose when using extended release tablets to treat panic disorder is 0.5 mg once daily and the average dose is 3-6 mg once daily.

Alprazolam may be taken with or without food.

Alprazolam is available as:

Tablets: 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg.

ER (extended release): 0.5, 1, 2 and 3 mg.

(Orally disintegrating): 0.25, 0.5, 1 and 2 mg. Solution: 1 mg/ml

Alprazolam is available in generic form, and you need a prescription from your doctor or other health-care professional to obtain this drug.

Brand names for alprazolam are Xanax, Xanax XR, and Niravam.