Xanax (Alprazolam) Flashcards

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.