section name header

Pronunciation ⬇

al-PRAY-zoe-lam

Classifications ⬆ ⬇

Therapeutic Classification: antianxiety agents

Pharmacologic Classification: benzodiazepines

Indications ⬆ ⬇

BEERS REMS

Action ⬆ ⬇

  • Acts at many levels in the CNS to produce anxiolytic effect.
  • May produce CNS depression.
  • Effects may be mediated by GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Relief of anxiety.

Pharmacokinetics ⬆ ⬇

Absorption: Well absorbed (90%) from the GI tract; absorption is slower with extended-release tablets.

Distribution: Widely distributed, crosses blood-brain barrier. Probably crosses the placenta and enters breast milk. Accumulation is minimal.

Metabolism/Excretion: Metabolized by the liver by the CYP3A4 isoenzyme to an active compound that is subsequently rapidly metabolized.

Half-Life: 12–15 hr.

Time/Action Profile ⬆ ⬇

(sedation)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO1–2 hr1–2 hrup to 24 hr



Contraind./Precautions ⬆ ⬇

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects ⬆ ⬇

Derm: rash

EENT: blurred vision

GI: constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, weight gain

Neuro: dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, confusion, depression, hangover, headache, paradoxical excitation

Misc: physical dependence, psychological dependence, tolerance

Interactions ⬆ ⬇

Drug-drug:

Drug-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage ⬆ ⬇

Anxiety

Panic Attacks

Availability ⬆ ⬇

(Generic available)

Assessment ⬆ ⬇

Lab Test Considerations:

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation ⬆ ⬇

Patient/Family Teaching ⬆ ⬇

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes ⬆ ⬇

US Brand Names ⬆ ⬇

Xanax, Xanax XR

Contr. Subst. Schedule ⬆ ⬇

Schedule IV (C-IV)

Pill Image

alprazolam_195-8630.jpg
alprazolam_195-8635.jpg

Code ⬆

NDC Code