30 Sec Answer: The new name for Xanax is Alprazolam.
Introduction
Xanax is a type of benzodiazepine, a class of medications commonly used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It has been prescribed since 1981, but in recent years it has become increasingly popular as an illicit drug due to its high potential for abuse and addiction. As such, the brand name Xanax was retired in 2019 by pharmaceutical giant Pfizer in order to reduce the appeal of the drug on the street. In its place, Pfizer introduced a new name for their product – Alprazolam.
What Is Alprazolam?
Alprazolam is an anti-anxiety medication that belongs to the same family as other benzodiazepines like Valium and Klonopin. It works by calming activity in the brain, which can help relieve symptoms of anxiety or panic disorder. Its effects are relatively short-lived compared to other drugs in its class and it’s important to take only as directed by your doctor.
How Is Alprazolam Different From Xanax?
At first glance, there may not seem to be much difference between alprazolam and xanax; however, there are some key distinctions that set them apart from each other. For one, alprazolam has a longer half-life than xanax does – meaning it takes longer for your body to process and excrete the drug. This makes it a better choice for treating chronic anxiety or panic disorders because you don’t need to take multiple doses throughout the day. Additionally, alprazolam is metabolized more slowly than xanax, making it less likely to accumulate in your system over time and increase your risk of side effects or addiction.
What Are The Side Effects Of Alprazolam?
Like any medication, alprazolam carries with it certain risks and side effects that should be discussed with your doctor before taking it. Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, weakness, dry mouth, nausea or vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, increased appetite and weight gain. If any of these persist or worsen while taking alprazolam, contact your doctor immediately. Rare but serious side effects can include mood changes such as depression or suicidal thoughts; confusion; agitation; hallucinations; worsening anxiety; slurred speech; blurred vision; coordination problems; breathing difficulties; seizures; loss of consciousness; fever; muscle stiffness; jaundice (yellowing of skin); rash or hives; or irregular heartbeat.
How Should I Take Alprazolam?
It’s important to follow all directions given by your doctor when taking alprazolam and always read the patient information leaflet carefully before beginning treatment. Generally speaking, you should take alprazolam orally with water once or twice daily at regular intervals as prescribed by your doctor – usually after meals or at bedtime if taken at night. Do not suddenly stop taking alprazolam unless instructed by your physician – abruptly stopping may cause withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, headaches and stomach cramps. Your dose may also be gradually reduced over several weeks until you no longer require treatment – again following instructions from your healthcare provider carefully during this process.
Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Alprazolam?
No – drinking alcohol while taking alprazolam can lead to severe drowsiness and dangerous reactions so it’s best avoided altogether if possible. If you must drink alcohol then do so sparingly and make sure you stay well hydrated throughout the day too as this can help minimize the impact of both substances on your body. Avoid driving or operating machinery when using either substance as this could put yourself and others at risk of injury or death.
What Other Drugs Interact With Alprazolam?
Alprazolam may interact with other medications so always inform your doctor about any medicines you are currently taking before beginning treatment with alprazolam including vitamins, herbal supplements etc… You should also avoid using certain drugs while taking alprazolam such as narcotic painkillers (e.g codeine) sleeping pills (zopiclone), certain antibiotics (e.g ciprofloxacin) antifungals (ketoconazole), seizure medications (phenytoin), antidepressants (MAOIs) and birth control pills as these could affect how alprazolam works in your body resulting in dangerous reactions or even life threatening overdoses if combined incorrectly.
Does Alprazolam Have Any Special Precautions Or Warnings?
Yes – pregnant women should use caution when taking alprazolam due to possible harm to unborn babies if taken during pregnancy – discuss this with your healthcare provider before beginning treatment with this medication if applicable. Elderly people may be particularly sensitive to the effects of this medication and they should use caution when taking alprazolam – speak with your doctor if you are over 65 years old before starting therapy with this drug as lower doses may be necessary in this age group depending on individual health factors present at that time.. Similarly people who suffer from liver disease may need modified doses so always consult a healthcare professional before using this medication if this applies to you personally.. Lastly people suffering from mental illness should seek specialist advice prior to taking any anxiolytic/sedative medication like alprazoalm – remember all benzodiazepines can increase suicidal tendencies so extra care should be taken here .
What Else Should I Know About Taking Alprazolam?
You should not take alprozalam if you have had an allergic reaction to similar drugs such as lorazepram or oxazepram in the past – tell your doctor about all allergies before beginning treatment.. Additionally some medical conditions such as glaucoma might also contraindicate use of this medication so make sure you get all relevant health check ups done beforehand . Finally keep all appointments made with your doctor whilst on alprozalam therapy as regular monitoring is essential for optimum therapeutic effect.. In addition regularly attend any psychotherapy sessions recommended by professionals during periods where treatment is being undertaken ..
Summary
To conclude then ,the new name for Xanax is indeed Alprozalam – a safe effective means of reducing anxiety symptoms when used correctly under medical supervision .. Always follow dosage guidelines issued by professionals closely in order to ensure safety & efficacy .. Likewise never combine without express consent from specialists & never share medication between individuals .. Lastly remember if seeking help through alternative avenues such as online support groups be aware that many pharmacies still refer only to “xanax” rather than “alprozalam” meaning confusion is inevitable .. With knowledge & understanding however we can confidently manage our stress & feel better mentally..
