Drugs

Drugs on RSD Alert

(notes and comments from correspondents)

Alprazolam

Description
An anxiolytic drug administered in the form of tablets to treat anxiety, insomnia and depression. Also supplied under the proprietary name Xanax, Alprazolam is a member of the benzodiazepine family and is in the same class as Versed (midazolam) and Valium, (diazepam) [in pediatrics one of these is usually used]. Alprazolam is not used for patients under 18 years of age. Benzodiazepines are sedatives that cause depression of the central nervous system, which in turn causes decreased anxiety. Available only by prescription.
Side effects

(Don't be unduly alarmed. All drugs cause side effects for some patients)

Shallow breathing, headache, drowsiness, dry mouth or dizziness. Nausea and constipation - take with food or milk to help avoid nausea, drink extra fluids and increase fibre to decrease constipation.
Warnings

(These are standard cautions but may not be applicable to your case)

Enhances the effects of alcohol and may reduce concentration. Not recommended for long-term use. Withdraw dosage gradually. Not recommended for the elderly, women in the late stages of pregnancy or breastfeeding, or patients with glaucoma, respiratory difficulties, kidney or liver disorders. Do not take this drug if you have ever had a reaction to this or other benzodiazepines. Alcohol use should be avoided whilst taking this drug.

Comments

Anti-depressant: Effexor (Venlafaxine HCL), Paxil (Paroxetine HCL), Zololf (Sertraline), Celexa (citalopram hydrobromide), Prozac (Fluoxetine HCL), Wellbutrin (Bupropion HCL) and Elavil (Amitriptyline HCL). I have even taken Buspar (Buspirone HCL) and Xanax (Alprazolam) which technically are anti-anxiety meds). Of this list the only one that I have had BAD adverse reactions to is Elavil. Trish Pennsylvania, USA
www.rsdalert.co.uk
for correspondence click CONTACT