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Questions and Answers
What is the drug classification of Xanax?
What is the drug classification of Xanax?
What is the safe dose range for 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 ______.
The pharmacological action of Xanax may be mediated by ______.
GABA
Which of the following is a therapeutic use of Xanax? (Select all that apply)
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:
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)
Which of the following can interact with Xanax? (Select all that apply)
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What are some nursing interventions for Xanax?
What are some nursing interventions for Xanax?
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What should be monitored during Xanax administration?
What should be monitored during Xanax administration?
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What indicates the effectiveness of Xanax treatment?
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.
