Alprazolam
It is a triazolo analogue of benzodiazepine, which is indicated as an anti-anxiety drug in various disorders associated with anxiety. Drug has a dose related depressant effect on central nervous system varying from mild impairment of task performance to hypnosis.Anxiety disorders and short term relief of symptoms of anxiety. Anxiety associated with depression.
Starting dose is 0.25-0.5 mg 3 times daily. Max 3-4 mg daily in divided doses.
Hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines. Acute narrow angle glaucoma.
C.N.S. depressants. Paediatrics: Not recommended. Pregnancy: Contraindicated. Lactation: Contraindicated. Elderly: Dose should be reduced.
Drowsiness or light headedness, withdrawal seizures, anorexia, transient amnesia or memory impairment, loss of coordination, slurred speech, musculo skeletal weakness, pruritus.
Cimetidine, fluoxetine, ketoconazole, itraconazole reduces the clearance hence dose should be reduced to one third. Alprazolam enhances action of Imipramine and desipramine. Potentiates action of alcohol and CNS depressants.
