The brand name for Alprazolam: Xanax. Alprazolam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety. Alprazolam is most commonly used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders. Alprazolam is also used to treat panic disorders. Alprazolam may also be used for purposes other than those listed here.

Stop taking alprazolam and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives); sores in the mouth or throat; yellowing of the skin or eyes; a rash; hallucinations or severe confusion; or changes in your vision. 

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take alprazolam and talk to your doctor if you experience drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness; depression; nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation; difficulty urinating; vivid dreams; headache; dry mouth; decreased sex drive; or changes in behavior. .

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome

Do not take alprazolam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Alprazolam may worsen this condition. Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have kidney disease; have liver disease; have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease; or if you are depressed or have suicidal thoughts. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding a baby.If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from alprazolam. You may require a lower dose of this medication. Alprazolam is not approved for use by children younger than 18 years of age.

Do not take ketoconazole (Nizoral) or itraconazole (Sporanox) during treatment with alprazolam without first talking to your doctor. Alprazolam may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including antidepressants, alcohol, antihistamines, sedatives (used to treat insomnia), pain relievers, anxiety medicines, seizure medicines, and muscle relaxants. Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor. Antacids may decrease the effects of alprazolam. Separate doses of an antacid and alprazolam by several hours whenever possible. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with alprazolam. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Alprazolam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Avoid alcohol while taking alprazolam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by alprazolam. Alprazolam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if alprazolam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be dangerous.

Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.