Questions and Answers
What is the drug classification of Xanax?
What is the safe dose range for Xanax?
PO 0.25 mg - 0.5 mg, not to exceed 4 mg/day
The pharmacological action of Xanax may be mediated by ______.
GABA
Which of the following is a therapeutic use of Xanax? (Select all that apply)
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Match the following side effects/adverse effects with their descriptions:
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Which of the following can interact with Xanax? (Select all that apply)
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What are some nursing interventions for Xanax?
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What should be monitored during Xanax administration?
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What indicates the effectiveness of Xanax treatment?
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Study Notes
Drug Classification
- Xanax (alprazolam) is classified as an anxiolytic and belongs to the benzodiazepine family.
Safe Dose Range
- Recommended oral dosage is between 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg.
- Maximum dosage should not exceed 4 mg per day.
Pharmacological Action
- Acts as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
- Its effects may be mediated through GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) pathways.
Therapeutic Uses
- Provides relief from anxiety disorders.
- Effective for treating panic attacks and panic disorder.
- Alleviates anxiety associated with depression.
Side Effects/Adverse Effects
- Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, lethargy, and confusion.
- Other effects can manifest as hangover symptoms, headaches, mental depression, blurred vision, and gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).
- May also cause sexual dysfunction.
Medication/Food Interactions
- Grapefruit juice can increase alprazolam levels and effects.
- Alcohol and other benzodiazepines or CNS depressants enhance effects and risks.
- Hormonal contraceptives and cigarette smoking may alter drug efficacy.
- Antihistamines and certain herbal remedies may also interact.
Nursing Interventions/Client Education
- Patients should take the medication as directed without doubling doses.
- Abrupt cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms like sweating, vomiting, muscle cramps, tremors, and seizures.
- Patients should be cautioned about potential drowsiness and dizziness; driving should be avoided.
- Implement fall prevention strategies, especially in elderly patients.
- Advise taking the medication with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset.
- Encourage rising slowly to prevent lightheadedness and recommend sugar-free options for dry mouth.
Nursing Administration
- Continuously assess patients for signs of drowsiness, lightheadedness, or dizziness.
- In geriatric patients, monitor CNS effects and fall risks.
- Caution regarding prolonged high-dose therapy due to dependency concerns.
- Regularly monitor complete blood count (CBC) and renal function.
- Watch for potential decreases in hematocrit and neutropenia.
- Be vigilant for signs of toxicity and overdose.
Evaluation of Medication Effectiveness
- Effective treatment is indicated by a reduced sense of anxiety without adverse CNS effects.
- A decrease in the severity and frequency of panic attacks is a positive outcome.
- Improved symptoms related to premenstrual syndrome can also signal effectiveness.
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Description
Test your knowledge on Xanax (alprazolam) with these flashcards. Explore drug classifications, safe dosage ranges, pharmacological actions, and therapeutic uses. Perfect for students studying pharmacology or mental health medications.
