What is Xanax?

Xanax (alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peen). It is thought that alprazolam works by enhancing the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain.

Xanax is used to treat anxiety disorders and anxiety caused by depression.

Xanax is also used to treat panic disorders with or without a fear of places and situations that might cause panic, helplessness, or embarrassment (agoraphobia).

It is dangerous to purchase Xanax on the Internet or outside the United States. The sale and distribution of medicines outside the U.S. do not comply with the safe-use regulations of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These medications may contain dangerous ingredients, or may not be distributed by a licensed pharmacy.

Warnings

Xanax can slow or stop your breathing, especially if you have recently used an opioid medication or alcohol.

MISUSE OF XANAX CAN CAUSE ADDICTION, OVERDOSE, OR DEATH. Keep the medication in a place where others cannot get to it.

Do not stop using Xanax without asking your doctor. You may have life-threatening withdrawal symptoms if you stop using the medicine suddenly after long-term use. Some withdrawal symptoms may last up to 12 months or longer.

Get medical help right away if you stop using Xanax and have symptoms such as unusual muscle movements, being more active or talkative, sudden and severe changes in mood or behavior, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or thoughts about suicide.

Xanax is a federally controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep this medicine in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away this Xanax may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines, or street drugs.

Before taking this medicine

You should not take Xanax if:

• you also take antifungal medicine such as itraconazole or ketoconazole; or
• you have a history of allergic reaction to any benzodiazepine (alprazolam, lorazepam, diazepam, Ativan, Valium, Versed, Klonopin, and others).

To make sure Xanax is safe for you, tell your doctor if you have ever had:

• breathing problems;
• drug or alcohol addiction;
• depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• kidney or liver disease.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you use Xanax during pregnancy, your baby could be born with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms and may need medical treatment for several weeks.

You should not breastfeed.

If you do breastfeed, tell your doctor if you notice drowsiness or feeding problems in the baby.

Not approved for use by anyone younger than 18 years old.

How should I take Xanax?

Take Xanax exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label and read all medication guides or instruction sheets. Never use Xanax in larger amounts, or for longer than prescribed. Tell your doctor if you feel an increased urge to use more of this medicine.