Alprazolam online appointments fast

Like other benzodiazepines, alprazolam works by targeting the brain’s GABA receptors. GABA stands for gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which is a neurotransmitter that naturally calms you down. Alprazolam enhances these effects, which helps people with anxiety or panic disorders feel less anxious and more relaxed.

A review of 84 studies found that alprazolam was as effective or better than other benzodiazepines in treating anxiety, panic disorder, and depression. Its effects also kicked in faster than some other benzodiazepines.

Alprazolam is an oral medication that comes in standard and extended-release tablets. The dosage strengths of the standard version range from 0.25 milligrams to 2 milligrams. For alprazolam XR, the dosage strengths range from 0.5 milligrams to 3 milligrams.

For GAD, the recommended starting dosage is 0.25 or 0.5 milligrams, three times daily. If needed, your healthcare provider may have you increase your dose every 3 to 4 days until you find the lowest effective dose for you. The maximum dose of alprazolam for GAD is 4 milligrams daily.

For panic disorder, the recommended starting dosage is 0.5 milligrams, three times daily. If needed, your healthcare provider may have you increase your dose in increments of no more than 1-milligram every 3 to 4 days until you find the lowest effective dose for you. The maximum dose of alprazolam for panic disorder is 10 milligrams daily, although it typically ranges from 5 to 6 milligrams.

If you are taking alprazolam ER for panic disorder, the recommended starting dosage is 0.5 or 1 milligrams, once daily in the morning. If needed, your healthcare provider may have you increase your dose in increments of no more than 1-milligram every 3 to 4 days until you find the lowest effective dose for you. The recommended total daily dose of alprazolam ER for panic disorder is 3 to 6 milligrams.

Alprazolam tablets should be swallowed whole. The medication should be stored at room temperature away from light.

When your treatment with alprazolam is complete, your healthcare provider will advise you on how to slowly taper off your dose. They may recommend reducing your dosage strength by 0.5 milligrams every 3 days, or outline a slower tapering schedule. If you have any tablets left, keep them in the container, close it tightly, and throw it away.

Alprazolam is one of the most commonly prescribed anxiety medications, but other options are available. Here’s how alprazolam compares to other treatment options:

• Ativan (lorazepam): Another benzodiazepine, Ativan is FDA-approved to amanged anxiety disorder or to relieve symptoms of anxiety, with or without depressive symptoms, on a short-term basis. Ativan may have fewer withdrawal symptoms than alprazolam.
• Atenolol: Atenolol is a beta-blocker that is sometimes used off-label for anxiety. It works by blocking adrenaline, which helps reduce physical symptoms of anxiety like rapid heartbeat.
• Gabapentin: Originally developed for seizures, gabapentin is sometimes prescribed off-label for anxiety. Gabapentin has a lower risk of drug abuse and dependence compared to benzodiazepines. Gabapentin is not a federally controlled substance but is classified as a Schedule V controlled substance in certain states and requires reporting in some states. Learn more about taking gabapentin for anxiety.
• Valium (diazepam): Another benzodiazepine, Valium is FDA-approved for managing anxiety disorders and short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It can also be used to treat muscle spasms and alcohol withdrawal.
• Zoloft (sertraline): A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), Zoloft is a long-term, non-addictive medication for anxiety and depression disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD). Learn how to get Zoloft prescribed online.

All of these medications can cause side effects, some of which can be serious. Common possible side effects may include, but aren’t limited to, nausea, dizziness, insomnia, and changes in weight and energy levels. Ativan and Valium, like alprazolam, are controlled substances and may lead to dependence or abuse. Zoloft has a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Each medication has its own risks and benefits. 

The best way to find out which anxiety treatment or medication is best for you is to talk to an anxiety specialist.