30 Sec Answer: Xanax is a short-acting benzodiazepine that typically produces effects within 1 hour and can last for up to 6 hours.
Introduction
Xanax, also known as alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It works by affecting the brain’s chemicals to produce a calming effect. Benzodiazepines are divided into two main groups: short-acting and long-acting. This article will explore the differences between these two types of medications and discuss whether Xanax falls into the short or long acting category.
What Is a Benzodiazepine?
Benzodiazepines are medications that act on the central nervous system (CNS). They work by increasing levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps reduce symptoms of anxiety and panic attacks. Benzodiazepines are classified into two main groups: short-acting and long-acting.
What Is a Short-Acting Benzodiazepine?
Short-acting benzodiazepines have a rapid onset of action and their effects last for only a few hours. These medications can be taken on an as-needed basis or multiple times daily if needed. Examples of commonly prescribed short-acting benzodiazepines include alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan).
What Is a Long-Acting Benzodiazepine?
Long-acting benzodiazepines have slower onset of action but longer duration of effects compared to short-acting medications. These medications can be taken once daily, usually at night before bedtime, in order to maintain stable blood levels throughout the day. Examples of commonly prescribed long-acting benzodiazepines include clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium).
How Does Xanax Work?
Xanax works by binding to specific receptors in the brain called GABA receptors. By binding to these receptors, it increases the activity of GABA in the brain, which reduces feelings of anxiety and fear. The effects of Xanax can be felt within one hour after taking it and typically last up to six hours.
Side Effects of Taking Xanax
Like all medications, Xanax has potential side effects that range from mild to severe depending on the individual patient’s response to the drug. Common side effects associated with taking Xanax include fatigue, dizziness, lightheadedness, headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, dry mouth, increased appetite, blurred vision, muscle weakness, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. It is important to consult your doctor if you experience any concerning side effects while taking Xanax or other benzodiazepines.
When Should I Take Xanax?
It is important to take Xanax exactly as prescribed by your doctor or healthcare provider in order to get maximum benefit from the medication and avoid potential risks or adverse events. If taking it on an as-needed basis for relief of anxiety symptoms or panic attacks, you should take it about one hour prior to when you anticipate needing its calming effects.
Are There Any Drug Interactions With Taking Xanax?
Yes! It is important to always inform your healthcare provider about all prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and supplements that you are currently taking before starting any new medications like Xanax. Certain drugs may interact with each other leading to dangerous or unexpected side effects; therefore close monitoring by your doctor is essential when taking multiple drugs together.
How Long Does It Take For Xanax To Leave My System?
The half life of Xanax is around 11 hours so it takes about 5 days for the drug to leave your system completely after discontinuing use. However this time frame can vary greatly based on individual factors such as age, body weight and liver function etc., so it is best to check with your healthcare provider regarding how long it will take for the medication to clear out of your system completely upon stopping use.
Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Xanax?
No! It is not recommended that you drink alcohol while taking any type of benzodiazepine including alprazolam (Xanax). Alcohol can significantly increase the sedative effects of these drugs leading to dangerous interactions; therefore combining alcohol with any kind of benzodiazepine should be avoided at all costs!
What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Xanax?
If you forget or miss a dose of your medication do not double up on the next dose in order attempt “catch up” since this could lead to serious complications or even overdose. Instead contact your doctor right away so they can advise on how best proceed with treatment safely.
What Are The Risks Of Stopping Use Of Xanax Suddenly?
It is generally advised against suddenly stopping use of any benzodiazepine including alprazolam (Xanax). Abruptly quitting use can lead withdrawal symptoms such as agitation, confusion, depression and seizures; therefore tapering off use under close medical supervision is highly recommended instead.
Can I Buy Xanax Online?
No! Purchasing controlled substances online without a valid prescription from licensed healthcare provider is illegal in most countries including USA; therefore do not purchase this medication online without first consulting with your doctor!
Conclusion
In conclusion, alprazolam (Xanax) is a short acting benzodiazepine used mainly for treating anxiety disorder and panic attacks due its fast onset action and relatively shorter duration compared with long acting counterparts like diazepam (Valium). However it must be taken exactly as prescribed by physician in order achieve desired outcomes safely while avoiding potentially harmful side effects or adverse events associated with improper use or abuse!
