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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Brand Name
Alprazolam Odt C-iv
Generic Name
Alprazolam Odt C-iv
Active Ingredient
AlprazolamCategory
Benzodiazepine [EPC]
Variants
1
Different strengths and dosage forms
| Strength | Form | Route | NDC |
|---|---|---|---|
| .5 mg/1 | TABLET, ORALLY DISINTEGRATING | ORAL | 72189-637 |
Detailed information about Alprazolam Odt C-iv
This page is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Before using any prescription or over-the-counter medication for Alprazolam Odt C-iv, you must consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Alprazolam is a potent, short-acting benzodiazepine primarily utilized for the management of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and panic disorder. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA in the central nervous system.
Dosage for Alprazolam must be highly individualized. Healthcare providers typically aim for the lowest effective dose to minimize the risk of adverse effects and physical dependence.
The standard starting dose for adults with GAD is 0.25 mg to 0.5 mg administered three times daily. Depending on the patient's response and tolerability, the physician may increase the dose every 3 to 4 days. The maximum recommended daily dose for GAD is generally 4 mg, divided into multiple doses. However, many patients find relief at much lower total daily doses (e.g., 0.75 mg to 1.5 mg per day).
Panic disorder often requires higher doses than GAD. The starting dose is usually 0.5 mg three times daily. Because panic disorder can be debilitating, the dose may be titrated upward in increments of no more than 1 mg per day every 3 to 4 days. In clinical trials, the effective dose range was found to be 1 mg to 10 mg per day, with a mean dose of approximately 5 mg to 6 mg per day. Extended-release (XR) formulations for panic disorder typically start at 0.5 mg to 1 mg once daily and can be adjusted upward as needed.
Alprazolam is NOT FDA-approved for use in pediatric patients (individuals under the age of 18). The safety and effectiveness of Alprazolam in children have not been established in controlled clinical trials. Because the developing brain may be more sensitive to the effects of benzodiazepines, and because of the high risk of dependence, its use in children is generally discouraged unless specifically directed by a specialist in pediatric psychiatry.
While Alprazolam is primarily metabolized by the liver, its metabolites are excreted by the kidneys. In patients with severe renal impairment, the drug may accumulate. Healthcare providers usually start at the lower end of the dosing spectrum and monitor these patients closely for signs of over-sedation.
Since Alprazolam is extensively metabolized by the liver, patients with hepatic impairment (liver disease) require significant dose reductions. The starting dose is typically 0.25 mg taken two or three times daily. Failure to adjust the dose in these patients can lead to toxic levels of the drug in the blood, resulting in profound CNS depression.
Geriatric patients are more sensitive to the effects of benzodiazepines. They have a higher risk of ataxia (lack of muscle coordination), falls, and cognitive impairment. For elderly patients, the recommended starting dose is 0.25 mg, given two or three times daily. This may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated. The goal is to avoid excessive sedation or motor impairment.
If you miss a dose of Alprazolam, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up, as this significantly increases the risk of over-sedation and respiratory depression.
An overdose of Alprazolam can be life-threatening, especially if combined with alcohol or other CNS depressants (like opioids). Symptoms of overdose include:
In the event of a suspected overdose, call 911 or emergency services immediately. Flumazenil is a specific benzodiazepine-receptor antagonist that may be used in a hospital setting to reverse the effects, but it must be used with extreme caution as it can trigger seizures in those with physical dependence.
> Important: Follow your healthcare provider's dosing instructions exactly. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking the medication without medical guidance, as sudden discontinuation can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Side effects of Alprazolam are most common at the start of therapy and usually subside as the body adjusts to the medication. However, because Alprazolam is a potent CNS depressant, some effects may persist. Common side effects include:
> Warning: Stop taking Alprazolam and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious symptoms:
Prolonged use of Alprazolam (beyond a few weeks) carries significant risks that patients must discuss with their doctors:
The FDA has issued the highest level of warning (Black Box Warning) for Alprazolam regarding several critical risks:
Report any unusual symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider immediately. Do not attempt to manage serious side effects on your own.
Alprazolam is a powerful medication that affects the central nervous system. It is intended for short-term use or for specific conditions under close medical supervision. Patients must be aware that Alprazolam can impair their ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness. It is also a substance with a high potential for diversion and non-medical use. Always keep your medication in a locked, secure place to protect others, especially children and those with a history of substance use disorders.
As of the most recent FDA updates (2024-2026), Alprazolam carries a prominent Boxed Warning detailing three major risks:
While rare, some individuals may experience hypersensitivity to Alprazolam or other benzodiazepines. Symptoms include angioedema (swelling under the skin) and anaphylaxis. If you have ever had a reaction to diazepam, lorazepam, or clonazepam, inform your doctor, as cross-sensitivity is possible.
Alprazolam can slow the rate of breathing. This risk is significantly higher in patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or Sleep Apnea. It should be used with extreme caution, if at all, in these populations.
In patients with primary depression, Alprazolam may worsen the condition or increase the risk of suicidal thoughts. It should not be used as the sole treatment for depression. Healthcare providers should monitor for changes in mood or behavior, especially during the first few weeks of therapy.
Because Alprazolam causes significant sedation, patients must not drive, operate heavy machinery, or engage in hazardous activities until they are certain the medication does not impair their performance. The impairment can last for several hours after the dose is taken.
If you are prescribed Alprazolam for an extended period, your healthcare provider may require periodic monitoring, including:
Alcohol must be strictly avoided while taking Alprazolam. Alcohol is also a CNS depressant. When combined with Alprazolam, the effects are not just added together; they are multiplied (synergistic effect). This combination can lead to fatal respiratory failure, severe accidents, or profound 'blackouts' where the individual has no memory of their actions.
Never stop taking Alprazolam 'cold turkey.' Because of the way Alprazolam binds to GABA receptors, the brain stops producing its own inhibitory signals in the presence of the drug. If the drug is removed suddenly, the brain enters a state of hyper-excitability. This can result in:
Your doctor will provide a tapering schedule, which often involves reducing the dose by no more than 0.5 mg every three days, though some patients require an even slower taper over several months.
> Important: Discuss all your medical conditions, including any history of substance abuse or respiratory issues, with your healthcare provider before starting Alprazolam.
Certain medications should NEVER be used with Alprazolam due to the risk of life-threatening interactions:
Alprazolam does not typically interfere with standard clinical laboratory tests (like blood chemistry or CBC). However, it will show up on most standard 'benzodiazepine' urine drug screens. If you are undergoing a drug test for employment or legal reasons, you must disclose that you have a valid prescription for Alprazolam to the testing facility.
> Important: Tell your doctor about ALL medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as many 'natural' products can have significant interactions with Alprazolam.
There are several situations where Alprazolam must NEVER be used because the risks clearly outweigh any potential benefits:
In these cases, a healthcare provider must perform a careful risk-benefit analysis and may choose an alternative medication:
Patients should be aware of cross-sensitivity. If you have had a rash, hives, or breathing trouble with other benzodiazepines like Valium (diazepam), Ativan (lorazepam), or Klonopin (clonazepam), you are at a high risk of having a similar reaction to Alprazolam. Always inform your pharmacist and doctor of any previous drug allergies.
> Important: Your healthcare provider will evaluate your complete medical history, including any underlying eye conditions or respiratory issues, before prescribing Alprazolam.
Alprazolam is classified by the FDA as a Pregnancy Category D medication (though the letter category system is being phased out, the data remains relevant). This means there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans.
Alprazolam is excreted in human breast milk. Because of the drug's relatively short half-life, it can accumulate in the nursing infant. Effects on the infant can include excessive sedation, poor feeding, and weight loss. Generally, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Alprazolam. If the medication is essential for the mother's health, the infant should be closely monitored for lethargy, or the mother should consider formula feeding.
As previously noted, Alprazolam is not approved for use in patients under 18. The risk of paradoxical reactions (agitation instead of sedation) is higher in children. Furthermore, the long-term effects of benzodiazepines on the developing brain are not well understood. If a child requires treatment for anxiety, healthcare providers typically look to SSRIs or behavioral therapies as first-line options.
Elderly patients (65 and older) are at the highest risk for adverse effects from Alprazolam.
In patients with kidney disease, the clearance of Alprazolam metabolites may be reduced. While the parent drug is mostly handled by the liver, the accumulation of metabolites in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) can still contribute to CNS depression. Doses should be started low and increased slowly.
This is a critical area for Alprazolam. Because the liver (CYP3A4) is the sole organ responsible for breaking down the drug, any degree of liver failure (Child-Pugh Class A, B, or C) requires a dose reduction. In severe cirrhosis, the half-life can double or triple. Healthcare providers typically reduce the starting dose by 50% or more in these patients.
> Important: Special populations require individualized medical assessment. Never share your medication with others, as their health status may make the drug dangerous for them.
Alprazolam exerts its effects by binding to the benzodiazepine site on the GABA-A receptor complex in the brain. The GABA-A receptor is a pentameric (five-part) protein that forms a chloride ion channel. When the neurotransmitter GABA binds to this receptor, the channel opens, allowing chloride ions to enter the neuron, which inhibits the neuron's ability to fire. Alprazolam acts as an allosteric enhancer; it does not open the channel itself but makes the channel open more frequently when GABA is present. This results in a global 'slowing' of neural activity in the limbic system (emotional center) and the cerebral cortex.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Bioavailability | 80% - 90% |
| Protein Binding | ~80% (primarily Albumin) |
| Half-life | 11.2 hours (range 6-27 hours) |
| Tmax | 1 - 2 hours (IR); 9 hours (XR) |
| Metabolism | Hepatic (CYP3A4) |
| Excretion | Renal (urine) |
Alprazolam is a member of the benzodiazepine class. Specifically, it is a triazolobenzodiazepine. It is related to other medications like triazolam (Halcion), but Alprazolam has a longer half-life and is more commonly used for anxiety than for primary insomnia. It is distinct from non-benzodiazepine 'Z-drugs' (like zolpidem) which bind more selectively to specific GABA-A subunits.
Common questions about Alprazolam Odt C-iv
Alprazolam is primarily used for the short-term management of Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) and the treatment of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia. It is highly effective at reducing the acute symptoms of anxiety, such as racing heart, trembling, and overwhelming worry. In some cases, healthcare providers may prescribe it to treat anxiety associated with depression or for the short-term relief of severe insomnia. Because of its potency and risk of dependence, it is generally not recommended for long-term use. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your specific symptoms and medical history.
The most common side effects reported by patients taking Alprazolam include drowsiness, lightheadedness, and a feeling of tiredness. Many people also experience dry mouth, constipation, or changes in their appetite. Because it is a central nervous system depressant, it can also cause impaired coordination or slurred speech, which may feel similar to mild alcohol intoxication. These effects are usually most pronounced during the first few days of treatment and may decrease as your body adjusts. However, if these symptoms persist or interfere with your daily life, you should consult your healthcare provider for a dosage adjustment.
No, you must strictly avoid alcohol while taking Alprazolam. Both substances are central nervous system depressants, and when taken together, they can dangerously enhance each other's effects. This combination can lead to severe respiratory depression, where your breathing slows down to life-threatening levels, or even stops entirely. Additionally, mixing alcohol and Alprazolam significantly increases the risk of accidental injury, profound memory loss (blackouts), and fatal overdose. Even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous, so it is best to abstain completely during your course of treatment.
Alprazolam is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits clearly outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. It is classified as a medication that has shown evidence of human fetal risk, particularly when used in the first trimester (potential for cleft lip/palate) and the third trimester (risk of neonatal withdrawal or 'floppy infant syndrome'). If you are taking Alprazolam and plan to become pregnant, or if you discover you are pregnant, contact your doctor immediately. They will help you weigh the risks of the medication against the risks of untreated anxiety or panic disorder. Never stop the medication abruptly, even if pregnant, without medical supervision.
Alprazolam is known for its rapid onset of action, which is one of the reasons it is frequently used for acute panic attacks. Most patients begin to feel the anxiety-reducing effects within 30 to 60 minutes after taking an immediate-release tablet. Peak levels of the medication in the bloodstream are typically reached within one to two hours. If you are taking the extended-release (XR) version, the onset may be slightly slower, but the effects will last much longer throughout the day. Because it works quickly, it is important to be in a safe environment when taking your first few doses to see how it affects your alertness.
You should never stop taking Alprazolam suddenly, especially if you have been taking it for more than a few weeks. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, including seizures, tremors, hallucinations, and intense rebound anxiety. Your brain becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug, and stopping 'cold turkey' causes a dangerous surge in nervous system activity. To stop safely, your healthcare provider will create a tapering schedule to gradually reduce your dose over several weeks or even months. This slow process allows your brain to adjust and minimizes the risk of dangerous withdrawal reactions.
If you miss a dose of Alprazolam, you should take it as soon as you remember, provided it is not almost time for your next scheduled dose. If you are within a few hours of your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It is crucial that you do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed one, as this can lead to excessive sedation or an overdose. If you find yourself frequently forgetting doses, consider using a pill organizer or setting an alarm on your phone. Consistent dosing is important for maintaining stable levels of the medication in your system.
Weight changes are a possible but less common side effect of Alprazolam. Some patients report an increase in appetite and subsequent weight gain, while others may experience a decrease in appetite and weight loss. These changes are often related to how the medication affects an individual's anxiety levels; for some, reduced anxiety leads to increased eating, while for others, the sedative effect might lead to a more sedentary lifestyle. If you notice significant changes in your weight while taking Alprazolam, discuss them with your doctor. They can help determine if the medication is the cause or if other factors are involved.
Alprazolam has many potential drug interactions, some of which are very serious. It should not be taken with certain antifungal medications like ketoconazole or with opioid pain relievers, as these combinations can be fatal. Other drugs, such as certain antidepressants, birth control pills, and even herbal supplements like St. John's Wort, can change how your body processes Alprazolam. Always provide your healthcare provider with a complete list of all medications, vitamins, and herbs you are currently taking. Your doctor will check for interactions to ensure that Alprazolam is safe for you to use alongside your other treatments.
Yes, Alprazolam is widely available as a generic medication and is typically much less expensive than the brand-name version, Xanax. Generic Alprazolam is required by the FDA to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name drug. It must also prove bioequivalence, meaning it works in the body in the same way and over the same amount of time. Most insurance plans cover the generic version of Alprazolam. Whether you take the brand or the generic, the risks, benefits, and instructions for use remain identical, so you should always follow your doctor's guidance.
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