Indications of Zolax

Alprazolam is prescribed in-

• Anxiety condition
• Anxiety alleviation in the short term
• Anxiety is linked to depression.
• Panic disorder, either with or without agoraphobia

Pharmaceutical Name

Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd

Pharmacology

Zolax is a triazole derivative of the 1,4-benzodiazepine pharmacological family. It has anxiolytic, hypnotic, and anticonvulsant effects. Alprazolam is thought to work by interacting with the Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)-benzodiazepine receptor complex. It, like all benzodiazepines, has a dose-dependent CNS depressant effect ranging from moderate impairment of task performance to hypnosis.

Dosage & Administration

Treatment should be initiated with a dose of 0.25 to 0.5 mg three times daily. Depending on the response, dose may be increased at intervals of 3 to 4 days in increments of no more than 1 mg/day. The maximum dose should not exceed 4 mg/day. Occasional patients with panic disorder may need as much as 10 mg a day to achieve a successful response and in these cases periodic reassessment and consideration of dosage adjustment is required.

Dosage should be individualized for maximum beneficial effect with the lowest possible dose. If side-effects occur at starting dose, dose may be lowered. When discontinuing therapy, dosage should be reduced gradually by no more than 0.5 mg every three days.

In elderly patients or in patients with advanced liver disease, the usual starting dose is 0.25 mg, two or three times daily and may be gradually increased if needed and tolerated.

Alprazolam 1 mg should be administered once daily, preferably in the morning by patients who are on multiple dosage regimens of Alprazolam 0.25/0.5 mg. The tablets should be taken intact, they should not be chewed, crushed, or broken.

Interaction

Systemic reactions are possible with acetaminophen/hydrocodone, diphenhydramine, escitalopram, acetaminophen/codeine, alprazolam, and ondansetron.

Contraindications

Concurrent use of other psychiatric medications, anticonvulsants, antihistaminics, alcohol, and oral ontraceptives may exacerbate Alprazolam’s CNS-depressant effect.

Side Effects

Side effects, if they occur, are often seen at the start of therapy and normally diminish as the drug is maintained. Drowsiness and lightheadedness are the most common adverse effects. Other possible adverse effects include sadness, headache, disorientation, dry mouth, constipation, and so forth.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Alprazolam is classified as pregnancy category D, which indicates it should be avoided throughout pregnancy. Alprazolam, like other benzodiazepines, is thought to be secreted in breast milk. As a result, breastfeeding should be avoided by moms who must use Alprazolam.

Precautions & Warnings

Because Alprazolam can create psychological and physical dependence, increasing the dose or abruptly discontinuing Alprazolam medication should be done only with the doctor’s approval. The length of therapy must be set by the doctors. Patients with hepatic or renal illness, chronic pulmonary insufficiency, or sleep apnea should use alprazolam with care.

Therapeutic Class

Sedatives including benzodiazepines

Storage Conditions

Keep below 30°C and away from light and moisture. Keep out of children’s reach.