Xanax FAQ
What is xanax used to treat?
Xanax is one of the benzodiazepines and it is used for the short-term treatment of moderate to severe anxiety disorders and to reduce the risks of panic attacks. Because there is often a link between anxiety and depression, xanax is used either on its own or in combination with other drugs to relieve depression. You should not self-medicate. Xanax does not work well with all the other drugs used to treat depression.
How does it work?
Xanax changes the levels of neurotransmitters within the central nervous system. These are the chemicals that carry messages from one part of the brain to another. As a result, there is a calming effect.
What are the usual warnings given?
As with any other prescription only drug, you should always follow the instructions given by your doctor or the pharmacist. The usual practice is to start with a low dose and then slowly increase it until you feel the most benefit. But, because of the risk of dependence, you should not exceed the dosage given nor take it for longer than directed. If you ignore this warning, there is a real risk of addiction with all the problems of withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop. In any event, it may be necessary to slowly reduce the dose over a period of weeks unless you have experienced some of the adverse side effects. If there are safety concerns, you should stop more quickly. When you first start to take this drug, there is a risk it will make you drowsy so do not drive or operate dangerous machinery until you build up tolerance. Finally, both you and your immediate family or close friends should monitor how you react when you start taking this drug, particularly if you have ever considered the possibility of suicide or harming yourself.
How should the drug be taken?
This drug is most usually supplied in tablet form and is taken with water. You should not crush or chew the tablets but take them whole. There is no need to take this drug with meals unless you suffer indigestion. Note it is extremely unwise to drink alcohol during the time you take this drug.
Is taking xanax enough on its own?
This drug is only intended for short-term use and, for this limited purpose, it is very effective to relieve anxiety and reduce the risk of panic attacks. During this period of calm, you should take the chance to go through sessions designed to reduce the level of stress you feel. This could take the form of counseling, but cognitive behavioral therapy is the best long-term method for gaining control over your anxiety and panic.
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