Xanax or Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine that is used to treat anxiety disorders (like generalized anxiety disorder or panic attacks). It has a very short half life which means that a patient may feel its effect quickly and robustly, but it will also leave their system quickly (which can cause significant rebound anxiety or even panic). It tends to have higher risk for abuse than some of the longer acting benzodiazepines (although they also do carry this risk) and patients can develop physiological dependence, tolerance and as mentioned, can be at risk of serious (even fatal) withdrawal if decreased or stopped too abruptly.

Benzodiazepines work by increasing the activity of GABA (or the major inhibitory or calming neurotransmitter in the central nervous system).

With all of this being said, our practice rarely starts or increases a patient's dose of xanax, and there are many other options, that we typically prefer for treating someone's anxiety. However, it is FDA approved, and some patients do benefit from this medication.

Please talk to your provider about all risks and benefits of this medication before starting, stopping or changing doses.

Dr. Pagnani is the Medical Director of Rittenhouse Psychiatric Associates in Philadelphia, PA and surrounding areas. Their practice has 25 Academically oriented provides and is now scheduling in-office and telemedicine visits.

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