Alprazolam: A Short-Acting Benzodiazepine for Anxiety Disorders
Alprazolam, also known as Buy Xanax Online, is a generic medicine used to treat anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It is a short-acting benzodiazepine that can also be used to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea. However, it is not recommended for children under 16 years of age, and elderly patients above 65 should use it with caution due to the increased risk of side effects.
Forms and Strengths of Alprazolam
Alprazolam comes in different forms and strengths. The immediate-release tablets are available in 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, and 2 mg tablets, while the extended-release tablets come in 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 2 mg, and 3 mg. The medication reaches its peak after one or two hours.
How Alprazolam Works
Alprazolam belongs to the benzodiazepine group of medicines that work directly on the brain or nervous system (CNS) to produce calming effects. It binds with GABA receptors present in the brain, which mediate inhibitory or calming effects. Binding of Alprazolam with GABA receptors opens the channels, and chloride enters the cells, which makes resistance to depolarisation. It has a depressant attitude that affects synaptic transmission and reduces anxiety.
Effects of Alprazolam
Xanax affects the central nervous system and brain to give calming effects or a euphoric feeling. It is an addictive medication, so caution is required during treatment of anxiety disorder. However, it is an effective drug for people with alcohol dependence to avoid alcohol dependence. It is a safe and effective medication if used as prescribed.
How Quickly Does Alprazolam Work?
A regular benzodiazepine can work for about 5 hours or more. An extended-release (XR) benzodiazepine can work for about eleven hours. Benzodiazepine has a fast onset of action—30 to 60 minutes—and might last up to eight hours.
How Long Does Alprazolam Last?
The clearance of the medicine entirely depends upon its dosage and strength. In general, it takes four days to get washed off entirely from the body. The effect of Alprazolam stays in your system for about 2 to 3 days after the last dose. But in some patients, it lasts for a week in their system.
Side Effects of Alprazolam
Along with the needed effects, stimulants may give its adverse effects when misused or overdose. The possible side effects of Alprazolam include anterograde amnesia, concentration problems, ataxia, slurred speech, headache, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, unsteadiness, impaired coordination, and vertigo. Overdose can cause CNS depression or fatal withdrawals.
