Xanax (Alprazolam)


Central nervous system agent


Antianxiety agent


Agoraphobic with social phobia, Depression, premenstrual syndrome, anxiety disorder, anxiety associated with Depression, panic disorder.


(Adults) Individualize. Initially 0.25 to 0.5 mg 3 times daily. Increase every 3 to 4 days to max 4 mg/day in divided doses, before or after meal.


Category D


Drowsiness, lightheadedness, impaired coordination, impaired memory, Depression, headache, confusion, Insomnia, dry mouth, Palpitations, nervousness, tachycardia, Nasal Congestion, dermatitis, weight gain or loss.




Pregnancy Risk Categories defined:

A: Studies in pregnant women failed to show a risk to the fetus in the first trimester - with no evidence of risk in the later trimesters.

B: Animals studies indicate no adverse effect to the fetus, but there are no adequate, clinical studies in pregnant women.

C: Animal studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus, but there are no adequate, clinical studies in humans. Despite potential risks, the drug may be useful in pregnant women.

D: There is evidence of risk to the human fetus, but the potential benefits of use in pregnant women may be acceptable, despite potential risks.

X: Studies in animals or humans show fetal abnormalities, or adverse reaction reports indicate evidence of fetal risk. Warning: the risks involved clearly outweigh any potential benefit from using the drug in pregnant women, regardless of trimester.

NR: Not rated (i.e., no information available at this time as to the potential risks or benefits).