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Anti anxiety medicine: What about Xanax?
Why is this anti anxiety
medicine prescribed?
 Xanax
is an anti anxiety medicine that is frequently used in the treatment of anxiety
symptoms as well as for use with various anxiety disorders. Anxiety disorder is
usually indicated by an unrealistic worry, excessive fears or anticipation which
makes this a particularly effective anti anxiety medicine.
Xanax is also sometimes used
as the anti anxiety medicine of choice for the treatment of panic disorder.
Panic disorders are unexpected panic attacks which may be accompanied in some
cases by a fear of being in open spaces which is referred to as agoraphobia.
Only your doctor can diagnose panic disorder and tell you whether this would be
the appropriate anti anxiety medicine for your particular circumstances. Anxiety
symptoms associated with depression are also frequently responsive to Xanax.
Xanax is also used to treat
alcohol withdrawal, fear of open spaces and strangers, depression, irritable
bowel syndrome and also premenstrual syndrome.
Most important fact about
this anti anxiety medicine:
Dependence and tolerance
frequently occur with use of this anti anxiety medicine. This is most frequently
experienced if you stop the drug abruptly. You should always follow the
directions of your physician when taking this medication.
Special information about
Xanax if you're pregnant or breast-feeding
You should not take this
anti anxiety medicine if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the
near future. There may be an increased risk of respiratory problems and
muscular weakness in your baby. Infants have also been known to experience
withdrawal symptoms from Xanax. Also, Xanax has been found to appear in breast
milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this anti anxiety medicine is
essential to your health your doctor may advise you to stop breast-feeding until
your treatment with this drug has been completed.
Information provided by
The PDR Pocket Guide to Prescription Drugs - Sixth Edition
 Additional
Pictures of Xanax - Various dosages
Additional information and webpage by
Paul Susic
MA
Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate
(Health and Geriatric Psychologist)
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