30 Sec Answer: Xanax is an anti-anxiety medication, typically prescribed in tablet form. It comes in a variety of dosages and can be taken as needed for relief from symptoms of anxiety or panic attacks.
What Is Xanax?
Xanax (alprazolam) is a prescription medication used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming effect. This medication works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural chemical in the body (GABA). It is available in both brand and generic versions.
What Does it Look Like?
Xanax tablets come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors depending on the dosage strength. Generally speaking, they are small oval shaped tablets that are usually yellow, green, or blue. The tablets also contain markings such as letters or numbers that identify them as Xanax.
How Is Xanax Taken?
Xanax should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. The dose and frequency will depend on several factors such as age, weight, medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications being taken. It is important not to take more than what was prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up doses.
What Are The Side Effects Of Taking Xanax?
Common side effects associated with taking Xanax include drowsiness, confusion, lightheadedness, memory problems, headache, constipation, nausea/vomiting, blurred vision, increased saliva production, changes in sex drive or ability, and unsteadiness when walking or standing up. Other less common but serious side effects include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest pain or tightness, mental/mood changes (e.g., depression), yellowing eyes/skin, signs of infection (e.g., fever), seizures or muscle twitching.
Who Should Not Take Xanax?
You should not take Xanax if you have narrow angle glaucoma or severe liver disease. Additionally, do not take this medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding without first talking to your doctor about potential risks and benefits involved. You should also avoid drinking alcohol while taking Xanax due to an increased risk of serious side effects such as extreme drowsiness and difficulty breathing.
What Else Should I Know About Taking Xanax?
It is important to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking (including non-prescription medicines) before taking this medication as some may interact with Xanax resulting in increased side effects or reduced effectiveness of either medicine. Also make sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies before starting this medication as it may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other problems. Finally inform your doctor if you have had any recent surgery involving anesthesia so he/she can adjust the dose accordingly since anesthesia may increase the sedative effects of this medication leading to greater levels of drowsiness than normal after surgery.
Can You Overdose On Xanax?
Yes! Overdosing on Xanax can lead to serious complications such as slowed breathing and death so it is important not to exceed the recommended dosage amount prescribed by your doctor. Signs of overdose include slow reflexes; confusion; clumsiness; slurred speech; shallow breathing; coma; decreased awareness; lack of coordination; unusual behavior; feeling faint; seizure; dizziness; loss of consciousness; abdominal pain; vomiting; weakness; cold/clammy skin; and/or blue lips/fingertips/toenails. If you think someone has overdosed on Xanax seek medical attention immediately by calling 911 or going directly to an emergency room near you!
What Is The Difference Between Generic And Brand Name Xanax?
Generic drugs are medications that have been approved by the FDA for sale in the United States but contain identical active ingredients compared to their brand name counterparts at much lower prices due to lack of research costs required for approval purposes since they were already tested previously when developing the original drug formulation (brand name). Generally speaking generics provide similar therapeutic effects as brand name medications without compromising safety or quality standards set forth by federal regulatory bodies like the FDA – though there may be minor differences in absorption rates between generic and branded products which might affect how quickly it begins working inside your body (though this varies from person to person). Therefore always consult with your doctor prior to switching from one version of alprazolam (Xanax) to another!