Generic name: Alprazolam Extended-Release Tablets [ al-PRAY-zoe-lam ]Drug class: Benzodiazepines
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 10, 2023.
Warning: This medicine is a benzodiazepine. The use of a benzodiazepine drug along with opioid drugs has led to very bad side effects. Side effects that have happened include slowed or trouble breathing and death. Opioid drugs include drugs like codeine, oxycodone, and morphine. Opioid drugs are used to treat pain and some are used to treat cough. Talk with the doctor.
If you are taking Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) with an opioid drug, get medical help right away if you feel very sleepy or dizzy; if you have slow, shallow, or trouble breathing; or if you pass out. Caregivers or others need to get medical help right away if the patient does not respond, does not answer or react like normal, or will not wake up.
Uses of Xanax XR
What do I need to tell my doctor BEFORE I take Xanax XR?
If you are allergic to Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets); any part of Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets); or any other drugs, foods, or substances. Tell your doctor about the allergy and what signs you had.
If you have glaucoma.
If you are taking any of these drugs: Itraconazole or ketoconazole.
If you are breast-feeding. Do not breast-feed while you take Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets).
This is not a list of all drugs or health problems that interact with Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets).
Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all of your drugs (prescription or OTC, natural products, vitamins) and health problems. You must check to make sure that it is safe for you to take Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) with all of your drugs and health problems. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any drug without checking with your doctor.
What are some things I need to know or do while I take Xanax XR?
Tell all of your health care providers that you take Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets). This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
This medicine may be habit-forming with long-term use.
If you have been taking Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) for a long time or at high doses, it may not work as well and you may need higher doses to get the same effect. This is known as tolerance. Call your doctor if Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) stops working well. Do not take more than ordered.
Avoid driving and doing other tasks or actions that call for you to be alert until you see how Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) affects you.
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets).
Talk with your doctor before you use other drugs and natural products that slow your actions.
Have your blood work checked if you are on Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) for a long time. Talk with your doctor.
If you drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit often, talk with your doctor.
If you start or stop smoking, talk with your doctor. How much drug you take may need to be changed.
If you are 65 or older, use Xanax XR (alprazolam extended-release tablets) with care. You could have more side effects.
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