Xanax: More information
Top Recommended Pharmacy'sXanax is a member of the family of drugs known as benzodiazepings. Xanax is also known under its generic name, alprazolam, and Xanax XR, a time-release version of the pill.
Xanax is, like Valium, an anti anxiety agent. It is primarily used for short-term relief of moderate or mild anxiety and associated symptoms. Because it is fast-acting, Xanax is frequently prescribed to treat panic attacks. Some doctors prescribe Xanax to help deal with irritable bowel syndrome and neurosis-related anxiety. Extreme PMS symptoms have been treated with Xaxax.
Xanax is also frequently prescribed to relieve symptoms of more serious illnesses.
Pharmacology of Xanax
Xanax belongs to the 1,4 benzodiazepine family of central nervous system depressants. Scientists presume that Xanax works by binding with neurotransmitter receptors (similarly to the way Valium works) but the exact method of function is unknown.
Xanax is approximately ten times more powerful than Valium. For this reason, dosages are manufactured in .25, .5, 1 or 2 g pills. Xanax is so powerful that some doctors prescribe doses of a mere .125 g.
Xanax XR is an extended-release formula that releases the active ingredient over time, for longer-lasting results.
Peak levels of Xanax in the blood are detected from 1-2 hours after ingestion.
Side effects of Xanax
Side effects of Xanax usually appear at the beginning of therapy and fade or disappear completely after continued medication. This is possibly due to tolerance build-up which seems to occur particularly rapidly with Xanax.
Common side effects include behavioral problems including difficulty concentrating, outbursts of anger, confusion, depression, hallucinations or impaired memory. Note that these types of side effects are not limited to Xanax but are shared among most benzodiazepines.
There have been reports of seizures after rapid withdrawal from extended use of Xanax.
Like most drugs, there is a long list of rare but severe side effects associated with Xanax. To learn more about these side effects, talk to your doctor.
How does Xanax make you feel?
Xanax has a powerful anti-anxiety effect. It is a strong sedative, so it tends to lower any type of elevated mood. The antianxiety effects of Xanax last longer than the sedative effects. When on Xanax, a person perceives the environment as much more calm than it really is. Others report that they perceive problems or sources of anxiety, but feel unaffected by them.
Those on Xanax generally feel calmer, but also often feel sleepy and sluggish. There's not a type of "high" associated with Xanax -- just a sensation of calmness.
Xanax is a highly addictive drug. For those who take frequent doses of Xanax, stopping suddenly can cause severe withdrawal symptoms. Only cease taking Xanax under the supervision of a doctor.
Where can I get Xanax?
Xanax must be prescribed by a doctor. If you think you have a disorder or a complaint that requires Xanax or a similar drug for treatment, talk to your doctor. Your doctor will be able to decide whether or not Xanax is right for you.
