#50: alprazolam (Xanax) | Treating Generalized Anxiety & Panic Disorder and Vertigo

Alprazolam, or brand name Xanax, comes as an immediate release, orally disintegrating, or extended release tablet; as well as coming as a concentrated solution. This hypnotic benzodiazepine is commonly used to treat generalized anxiety and panic disorders. There is also an off label indication for treating vertigo. Alprazolam’s proposed effects comes from an increased inhibitory effect of GABA on neurons resulting in a less excitable state of hyperpolarization creating stabilization. Alprazolam is rapidly absorbed with a time to peak b/t 1-2 hours if an immediate release formulation is used or around 9 hours if an extended release formulation is used. The half-life elimination can be approximated between 11-21 hours based on age, dosage form, and if taken with or without food. There are several Black Box warnings which are at risk from concomitant opioid use, risks of addiction/abuse/misuse, and concerns over dependence and withdrawal reactions. Alprazolam can slow or stop breathing and should not be taken by those with breathing problems such as COPD or sleep apnea.  Go to DrugCardsDaily.com for episode show notes which consist of the drug summary, quiz, and link to the drug card for FREE! Please SUBSCRIBE, FOLLOW, and RATE on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever your favorite place to listen to podcasts are. The main goal is to go over the Top 200 Drugs with the occasional drug of interest. Also, if you’d like to say hello, suggest a drug, or leave some feedback I’d really appreciate hearing from you! Leave a voice message at anchor.fm/drugcardsdaily or find me on twitter @drugcardsdaily

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