XANAX XR 3mg – Uses, Benefits, Dosage & Safety Info

XANAX XR 3mg is a benzodiazepine containing alprazolam . XANAX XR 3mg is available as extended release tablet . XANAX XR is indicated for the treatment of panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia, in adults. This medicine can cause dependence, misuse and withdrawal problems. Patients should take it only under proper medical supervision.

What is XANAX XR 3 mg?

XANAX XR 3mg Each tablet contains 3 mg of the benzodiazepine alprazolam, in an extended-release formulation. The drug works on the central nervous system to increase the effects of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps reduce overactivity in the nervous system. Therefore, alprazolam can help reduce symptoms of panic disorder.

According to the product information, the 3mg XANAX XR tablet is green, triangular and has a “X;3” imprint. But patients must identify medicines by their original packaging and prescription, and not just by their appearance.

Uses of XANAX XR 3mg

XANAX XR 3mg is used for the treatment of panic disorder, in adults. A doctor may decide that alprazolam is right for you . It can help you control recurring panic symptoms .

Furthermore, the extended-release formulation permits once daily dosing. But how much you get depends on your medical condition, how you respond to treatment, your age, other medicines you are taking and other factors.

How Does XANAX XR Work?

Alprazolam binds to benzodiazepine sites on GABA-A receptors. Thus increases GABA mediated inhibition of the brain. This action helps to reduce excessive nervous-system activity and supports the effects of the medicine in panic disorder .

Dosage & Administration

The labelling recommends a starting dose of 0.5mg to 1mg once daily, preferably in the morning. Healthcare professionals may adjust the dose based on the patient’s response. The labelled recommended total daily dosage is from 3 mg to 6 mg. Patients should swallow XANAX XR tablets whole and not divide, crush, or chew them.

Patients should therefore not change from or to 3mg without medical advice.

XANAX XR 3mg Side Effects & Precautions

XANAX XR may also affect your ability to coordinate or make you drowsy or dizzy. Patients should not drive or operate machinery until they know the effect of this medicine on them. Sedative effects may be increased when used with alcohol and other central nervous system depressants.

Most importantly, the combined use of benzodiazepines, such as XANAX XR, with opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma and death. In addition, physical dependence can develop with long-term use, and withdrawal symptoms may be severe upon abrupt discontinuation of use. That’s why, when patients come off treatment, doctors recommend tapering the dose gradually.

Precautions of Importance

Tell your health care provider about all the medicines and supplements you use. Important contraindications and drug-interactions considerations for XANAX XR include some strong CYP3A inhibitors.